Robert Norman Ross (October 29, 1942 – July 4, 1995) was an American painter and art instructor best known for creating and hosting The Joy of Painting, an instructional television program that aired from 1983 to 1994 on PBS in the United States, CBC in Canada, and various channels worldwide in Latin America, Europe, and beyond.
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Bob Ross Net Worth
Bob Ross had a net worth of $1 million. In the 21st century, he became an internet sensation, particularly popular on YouTube. Known for his wet-on-wet painting technique and catchphrases like “happy little trees,” he published The Best of the Joy of Painting with Bob Ross in 1989.
After being diagnosed with lymphoma, he retired and passed away in July 1995 at age 52. His intellectual property is managed by Bob Ross Inc., which licenses his image for various products. His original paintings have sold for up to $10,000.
Early life
Robert Ross was born in Daytona Beach, Florida, to Jack, a carpenter, and Ollie, a waitress. Raised in Orlando, he cared for injured animals, including armadillos, snakes, alligators, and squirrels, some of which appeared on his show. Ross had a half-brother, Jim, whom he mentioned occasionally.
He dropped out of high school in 9th grade and worked as a carpenter with his father. While working, he lost part of his left index finger, but it didn’t affect his ability to hold a palette while painting.
Career
While working as a bartender, Bob Ross discovered Bill Alexander’s show “The Magic of Oil Painting,” which introduced him to the wet-on-wet technique, allowing him to complete paintings in 30 minutes. After mastering it, Ross painted Alaskan landscapes on gold-mining pans and made more money than from his Air Force career.
He later studied with Alexander, became a tutor, and co-founded Bob Ross Inc. with Annette Kowalski and his wife, Jane. “The Joy of Painting” premiered in 1983, airing 403 episodes. Ross created an estimated 30,000 paintings before his death at age 52.
Personal Life
Bob Ross was married three times and had two children: a child from a teenage relationship and a son, Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross, with his first wife, Vivian Ridge. Steve, also a painter, appeared on The Joy of Painting and became a certified instructor. Ross and Ridge divorced in 1977, reportedly due to infidelity.
His second wife, Jane, passed away from cancer in 1992. In 1995, Ross married Lynda Brown shortly before his death. Ross was private about his life, with interviews and personal conversations often kept hidden. He believed in a creator god and often ended his shows by wishing “God bless” viewers.
What is Bob Ross’s most expensive painting?
A painting from the very first episode of Bob Ross’s The Joy of Painting could be yours, but not for cheap. Titled A Walk in the Woods, the piece is listed at $9.85 million and could be the most expensive and historically resonant Ross piece to ever be sold.
Conclusion
Bob Ross’s life was a blend of creativity, resilience, and business acumen. His legacy endures through his art, his teachings, and a brand that continues to inspire.
FAQs about Bob Ross Net Worth
- What was Bob Ross’s net worth at the time of his death?
- $1 million, excluding intellectual properties.
- How did Bob Ross make his money?
- Through his TV show, book and video sales, art kits, and licensing deals.
- Did Bob Ross have any children?
- Yes, a son named Steve.
- What was Bob Ross’s most famous catchphrase?
- “Happy little trees.”
- What happened to Bob Ross’s estate after his death?
- It was subject to legal battles, with much of it eventually controlled by Bob Ross Inc.
