Michael Richards, born July 24, 1949, is an American actor and former stand-up comedian. He gained fame as Cosmo Kramer on NBC’s Seinfeld (1989–1998), winning three Primetime Emmys for Outstanding Supporting Actor. Richards began as a stand-up comedian, first gaining recognition on Billy Crystal’s cable special and as a series regular on Fridays.
Post-Seinfeld, he starred in The Michael Richards Show (2000), which was canceled after two months. In 2006, Richards faced backlash for a racist tirade, leading to his retirement from stand-up. He later appeared on Curb Your Enthusiasm (2009) and in Faith, Hope & Love (2019).
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Michael Richards Net Worth
Michael Richards has a net worth of $30 million. Unlike Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Jason Alexander, Richards did not benefit significantly from “Seinfeld’s” lucrative syndication deals, which have amassed nearly $4 billion. To earn from syndication, one needs equity ownership, which the supporting cast lacked.
They receive annual royalties from the show’s airings, but these amount to hundreds of thousands, not millions. In contrast, Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld each made $250 million in 1998 alone from syndication and continued earning at least $50 million annually.
Early life
Michael Richards was born in Culver City, California, to a Catholic family. Raised by his mother, Phyllis, a medical records librarian, he later discovered his father’s identity and circumstances surrounding his birth.
He graduated from Thousand Oaks High School and was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1970, serving as a medic in West Germany where he joined a theatrical group. After his discharge, he used the G.I. Bill to study drama at California Institute of the Arts and Evergreen State College, also performing in student productions and a brief improv act with Ed Begley Jr.
Career
Michael Richards‘ career began with a 1979 appearance on Billy Crystal‘s cable TV special and a 1980 role on ABC’s “Fridays.” He gained prominence on NBC’s “Seinfeld” in 1989 as Cosmo Kramer, created by Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld.
Despite a slow start, the show became a major hit, making Richards a three-time Emmy winner. After “Seinfeld” ended in 1998, Richards starred in “The Michael Richards Show,” which was quickly canceled. In 2006, a racist tirade during a stand-up performance led to a significant public backlash.
Personal life
Michael Richards was married to family therapist Cathleen Lyons for 18 years, with whom he has a daughter, Sophia. They separated in 1992 and divorced in 1993.
In 2010, Richards married Beth Skipp, his partner since 2002, and they have a son, Antonio. Richards is a Freemason and disclosed in his 2024 memoir Entrances and Exits that he survived stage 1 prostate cancer in 2018 through surgery to remove his prostate.
What is Michael Richards famous for?
Michael Richards is best known for his iconic role as Cosmo Kramer on the classic sitcom Seinfeld (1989). Born on July 24, 1949, and raised in South Los Angeles, California, Richards is the son of Phyllis (Nardozzi), an Italian-American medical records librarian, and William Richards, an electrical engineer.
Conclusion
From his beginnings in stand-up comedy to the height of his career with Seinfeld and subsequent ventures, Michael Richards has amassed significant wealth and made a lasting impression in the entertainment industry. With a net worth of $70 million, his financial standing is a testament to his talent and his enduring role as one of television’s most beloved characters.
FAQ about Michael Richards Net Worth
- How did Michael Richards start his career?
- Richards began his career as a stand-up comedian and gained popularity with Billy Crystal’s TV special.
- How much did Michael Richards earn per Seinfeld episode?
- By the end of the series, Richards earned up to $600,000 per episode.
- Does Michael Richards receive Seinfeld syndication royalties?
- No, unlike some of the primary cast members, Richards did not receive syndication profits.
- What is Michael Richards’ current net worth?
- As of 2023, Michael Richards’ net worth stands at $70 million.
- How did Kramer’s character afford his lifestyle on Seinfeld?
- Through various means, including potential inheritance, unique projects, and odd jobs.
