Lewis Hamilton - $60 Million per year
Seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton made a sensational move to Scuderia Ferrari in 2025. Signing a two-year contract, he is set to earn an annual salary of approximately $60 million, making him one of the highest-paid drivers on the grid. This transition came after a storied career with Mercedes, where he clinched six of his seven titles.
At Ferrari, Lewis partners with Charles Leclerc, aiming to secure an unprecedented eighth championship. In addition to his base salary, performance bonuses, and personal endorsements further bolster his earnings. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $434 million, reflecting his success both on and off the track.
Stephen Colbert - $15 Million per year
The multifaceted comedian and television host Stephen Colbert has captivated audiences since 2015 as the anchor of CBS's “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” In 2019, he inked a lucrative contract extension with CBS, elevating his annual salary to a reported $15 million. This substantial remuneration reflects his pivotal role in maintaining the show's top ratings in the competitive late-night landscape.
Stephen co-authored a cookbook titled “Does This Taste Funny?: Recipes Our Family Loves” with his wife, Evie McGee Colbert, in 2024. The cookbook blends humor with culinary delights. His dynamic career trajectory, from “The Colbert Report” to “The Late Show,” showcases his enduring influence in comedy and television.
Ricky Gervais - $40 Million
The British comedian and creator of “The Office,” Ricky Gervais, has earned substantial assets through his multifaceted career. His stand-up comedy tour, “Armageddon,” set records $1.75 million for a single performance at the Hollywood Bowl in May 2023. It is the highest ever for a British comedian.
Ricky also made lucrative deals with Netflix, earning $40 million for two specials, “Humanity” and “SuperNature.” These ventures have contributed to his estimated net worth of $160 million. The performer has been involved in notable projects and personal endeavors. In 2023, he gave fans a glimpse into his estimated $19 million London mansion, showcasing a minimalist interior that some compared to a hospital.
Jimmy Kimmel - $15 Million per year
Jimmy Kimmel, a famous American television host and comedian, has been the face of ABC's “Jimmy Kimmel Live!" since its debut in 2003. His engaging monologues and celebrity interviews have solidified his status in late-night television. In 2023, he extended his contract with ABC, reportedly earning an annual salary of $15 million.
Jimmy has hosted the Academy Awards multiple times, including the 95th edition in 2023. Interestingly, despite the prestige, hosting the Oscars pays relatively modestly; Jimmy revealed he was paid $15k for the gig. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $50 million, reflecting his successful entertainment career.
Dr. Phil - $86 Million per year
Dr. Phil McGraw, well-known for his eponymous talk show “Dr. Phil,” has amassed significant wealth through his extensive career in television. Before concluding in 2023, after 21 seasons, the show was a major contributor to his earnings. In 2024, the celebrity launched “Dr. Phil Primetime” on his network, Merit Street, based in Fort Worth, Texas.
This venture continues to bolster his income, with reports indicating an annual salary of approximately $86 million. The doctor has diversified his portfolio by authoring best-selling books and engaging in motivational speaking, further enhancing his financial standing. His enduring presence in the media underscores his status as a prominent figure in American entertainment.
Laura Ingraham - $15 Million per year
A conservative television host, Laura Ingraham anchors “The Ingraham Angle” on Fox News, a position she has held since 2017. Her annual salary is estimated at $15 million, reflecting her significant role at the network. Laura's career trajectory includes roles as a speechwriter in the Reagan administration and as a law clerk for Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.
Her media career began in the mid-1990s, leading to her current senior position at Fox News. In addition to her television work, Laura has authored several best-selling books and co-founded the conservative website LifeZette in 2015. Her diverse endeavors have contributed to an estimated net worth of $40 million as of 2023.
Jon Stewart - $30 Million per year
Jon Stewart, the sharp-witted comedian and political satirist, became a household name as the host of “The Daily Show” on Comedy Central from 1999 to 2015. During his tenure, he reportedly earned an annual salary of around $30 million, making him one of television's highest-paid hosts.
In 2021, Stewart returned to television with “The Problem with Jon Stewart” on Apple TV+, though his earnings for this venture remain undisclosed. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at $120 million, reflecting his successful career in comedy and television. Beyond hosting, Stewart has directed films like “Rosewater” and “Irresistible,” showcasing his versatility in the entertainment industry.
Ryan Seacrest - $28 Million per year
The ubiquitous media personality Ryan Seacrest has built an outstanding career across television and radio. In 2024, he took over as host of “Wheel of Fortune,” with reports indicating an annual salary of $28 million. Ryan also continues to host “American Idol,” earning approximately $12 million per season.
His daily radio show, “On Air with Ryan Seacrest,” and the weekly “American Top 40” contribute significantly to his income, with past reports citing earnings of around $15 million annually from these programs. In 2023, he concluded his six-year tenure as co-host of “Live with Kelly and Ryan,” where he reportedly earned between $10 million and $15 million per year.
Megyn Kelly - $23 Million per year
A well-known journalist and political commentator, Megyn Kelly gained national attention during her tenure at Fox News from 2004 to 2017, where she hosted “The Kelly File.” In 2017, she transitioned to NBC News with a three-year contract reportedly worth $69 million.
Her tenure at NBC included hosting “Megyn Kelly Today,” which ended in 2018. In 2020, the journalist launched her independent media production company, Devil May Care Media, and began “The Megyn Kelly Show” podcast. By 2021, the podcast moved to Sirius XM, broadcasting weekdays on the Triumph channel. As of 2024, her net worth is estimated at $75 million.
Judge Judy - $25 Million per year
Judge Judy Sheindlin, famed for her sharp wit and no-nonsense demeanor, presided over the hit courtroom show “Judge Judy” from 1996 to 2021. At its peak, she earned a staggering $47 million annually, making her one of television's highest-paid personalities. In 2021, she launched “Judy Justice” on Amazon's IMDb TV, reportedly earning $25 million per year for this venture.
Before her television career, Sheindlin served as a family court judge in New York, where she presided over 20,000 cases during her 14-year tenure. In a 2025 interview, she reflected on the meaningful yet stressful nature of her family court work compared to the enjoyment of her television role.
Jeremy Clarkson - $13 Million
The outspoken British broadcaster Jeremy Clarkson gained fame as the host of “Top Gear” from 1988 to 2000 and again from 2002 to 2015. During his tenure, he reportedly earned a base salary of $4 million per year.
Additionally, Jeremey owned a 30% stake in the show, which, combined with dividends and bonuses, brought his annual earnings around $13 million. In 2013, the BBC bought out his shares, netting him approximately $21 million. In 2016, Jeremy, along with co-hosts Richard Hammond and James May, launched “The Grand Tour” on Amazon Prime Video, reportedly securing around a $200 million deal for 36 episodes.
Sean Hannity - $40 Million per year
A prominent conservative commentator, Sean Hannity, has been a fixture at Fox News since 1996. He hosts “Hannity,” a prime-time political talk show, and “The Sean Hannity Show,” a nationally syndicated radio program. In 2019, Sean signed a multi-year contract extension with Fox News, reportedly earning an annual salary of $25 million.
His radio endeavors contribute an additional $15 million per year, bringing his combined annual income to approximately $40 million. In December 2024, Sean became engaged to fellow Fox News host Ainsley Earhardt. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at $250 million, reflecting his enduring influence in conservative media.
Michael Strahan - $2 Million per year
Praised for his illustrious NFL career with the New York Giants, Michael Strahan has seamlessly transitioned into a prominent television personality. After retiring from football in 2007, Michael co-hosted “Live! with Kelly and Michael” from 2012 to 2016, earning two Daytime Emmy Awards.
In 2016, the former professional football player joined ABC's “Good Morning America” (GMA) as a full-time co-host, reportedly securing a contract that elevated his annual salary to approximately $17 million. In addition to his GMA role, the television hosts “The $100,000 Pyramid” and serves as a football analyst on “Fox NFL Sunday,” for which he earns around $2 million annually.
Steve Harvey - $20 Million per year
Steve Harvey, the multifaceted entertainer well-known for his roles as a comedian, television host, producer, and author, has built an impressive career over the decades. His wealth stems from his hosting duties on “Family Feud,” where he reportedly earns approximately $10 million per season. He also commands an annual salary of $20 million from his nationally syndicated radio program, “The Steve Harvey Morning Show.”
In 2022, he expanded his television presence by launching “Judge Steve Harvey,” an arbitration-based court comedy on ABC. The celebrity's influence extends into the literary world, with his book “Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man” achieving bestseller status and inspiring a successful film adaptation.
Oprah Winfrey - $315 Million per year
The media mogul Oprah Winfrey has built an empire that continues to thrive. In 2024, her net worth was estimated at $3 billion. She first gained fame with “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” making her a household name. Her company, Harpo Productions, has been instrumental in producing various media projects, including films and television shows.
In addition to her media ventures, the celebrity has made strategic investments, such as acquiring a 10% stake in Weight Watchers (now WW) in 2015, which significantly increased her wealth. Her influence extends beyond media; she is known for her philanthropic efforts, including the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.
Gordon Ramsay - $60 Million per year
The fiery chef known for his blunt critiques, Gordon Ramsay, continues to dominate the culinary world. In 2025, he hosted “Next Level Chef,” a cooking competition on Fox that premiered its fourth season on February 13, 2025. Gordon also revived “Kitchen Nightmares” in 2023 after a decade-long hiatus, with the ninth season premiering on January 7, 2025.
His annual earnings from these television ventures are estimated at $60 million. Outside television, the chef oversees a global restaurant empire, including the three-Michelin-starred Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in London. His estimated net worth stands at $220 million, reflecting his influential presence in the culinary and entertainment industries.
Simon Cowell - $95 Million per year
Simon Cowell, the sharp-tongued talent judge we all love (or love to hate), has turned his knack for spotting talent into a jaw-dropping fortune. As the mastermind behind “America's Got Talent,” “Britain's Got Talent,” and “The X Factor,” Simon doesn't just sit pretty; he rakes in a cool $95 million annually.
His empire, Syco Entertainment, isn't just a side gig—it's a powerhouse in music, television, and film. With an estimated net worth of $600 million, he's not just judging talent; he's defining it. From his early days at EMI to becoming a global icon, Simon's journey is a masterclass in turning sharp critiques into sharper earnings.
David Letterman - $40 million per year
The iconic late-night talk show host, David Letterman, became a household name with “Late Night with David Letterman” on NBC from 1982 to 1993. In 1993, he transitioned to CBS, launching the “Late Show with David Letterman,” where he reportedly earned $40 million annually.
His production company, Worldwide Pants Incorporated, produced his show and successful series like “Everybody Loves Raymond.” After retiring from the “Late Show” in 2015, the celebrity returned to the spotlight in 2018 with the Netflix series “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction,” reportedly earning $2 million per episode. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at $400 million, reflecting his influence in the entertainment industry.
Ellen DeGeneres - $75 Million per year
The beloved comedian and television host Ellen DeGeneres concluded her iconic daytime program, “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” in 2022. At its peak, she reportedly earned an annual salary of $75 million from the show. In addition to her hosting duties, the celebrity ventured into stand-up comedy, securing a $20 million deal with Netflix for her remarkable “Relatable.”
Beyond entertainment, Ellen and her wife, Portia de Rossi, are renowned for their real estate investments. They have bought and sold over 50 properties, including a notable $96 million sale of their California mansion in 2024. As of 2024, the celebrity's net worth is estimated to be between $450 million and $500 million.
Kelly Ripa - $22 Million per year
Kelly Ripa, a household name in American television, has amassed significant wealth through her dynamic career. As the co-host of “Live with Kelly and Mark,” she reportedly earns an annual salary of approximately $22 million.
Her journey with the show began in 2001 alongside Regis Philbin, and over the years, she has shared the stage with co-hosts like Michael Strahan and Ryan Seacrest. In 2023, her husband, Mark Consuelos, joined her as co-host, adding a personal touch to the program. Kelly's acting career, notably her role in “All My Children,” and ventures with her production company, Milojo, have contributed to her estimated net worth of $120 million.
Courteney Cox - $1 million per episode
Renowned for her role as Monica Geller on “Friends,” Courteney Cox accumulated significant wealth from the show's success. Initially earning around $22k per episode in the first season, her salary escalated to $1 million per episode by seasons 9 and 10, totaling approximately $88 million over the series' run.
Additionally, the cast negotiated backend points, allowing them to earn royalties from the show's syndication sales, which generate over $1 billion yearly. She also ventured into production with her company, Coquette Productions, which contributed to her estimated net worth of $150 million. In 2023, Courteney received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing her legacy in the entertainment industry.
Pat Sajak - $15 Million per year
The longtime host of "Wheel of Fortune," Pat Sajak, wrapped up his 41-season run in 2024. As the face of the game show since 1981, he earned a salary of $15 million per year. His tenure made him one of the highest-paid game show hosts in television history. Alongside co-host Vanna White, he turned "Wheel of Fortune" into a household favorite.
In addition to his hosting duties, he made millions through licensing deals and spin-offs. His final episode aired in June 2024, passing the torch to Ryan Seacrest. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at $75 million, cementing his legendary career in television.
George Stephanopoulos - $26 Million per year
George Stephanopoulos is a star figure in American journalism. He co-anchors ABC's “Good Morning America” and hosts “This Week,” the network's Sunday morning news program. In 2021, he renewed his contract with ABC News, reportedly securing a four-year deal worth $105 million, averaging an annual salary of approximately $26 million.
Before transitioning to broadcast journalism, he worked as a senior advisor in the Clinton administration. In 2024, he launched a production company focused on documentary storytelling, expanding his reach beyond television news. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $50 million, reflecting his decades-long career in media and political commentary.
Bill Maher - $10 Million per year
The incisive host of HBO's “Real Time with Bill Maher,” Bill Maher commands an annual salary of $10 million. His net worth is estimated at $140 million, bolstered by strategic investments, including a stake in the New York Mets. Since 2003, Bill has anchored “Real Time,” delivering sharp political commentary from HBO's studios in Los Angeles.
In 2024, he launched the “Club Random” podcast, engaging guests in candid conversations beyond politics. The celebrity has hinted at retiring from stand-up comedy after a 40-year career but remains committed to his HBO show, which has been renewed through 2026. His enduring influence in political satire continues to shape public discourse.
Gayle King - $13 Million per year
Co-host of “CBS Mornings,” Gayle King has been a distinguished personality in the journalism world for decades. In 2024, she renewed her contract with CBS amidst company-wide budget cuts, reportedly accepting a pay reduction from her previous $13 million annual salary.
Gayle's career began in 1976, and she has established herself as a trusted journalist, contributing significantly to CBS's morning news program. In February 2025, the journalist announced her participation in an all-female space flight aboard Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin, alongside pop star Katy Perry and Bezos' fiancée Lauren Sánchez. This mission aims to reach the edge of space, offering participants a brief experience of weightlessness before returning to Earth.
Lester Holt - $10 Million
Lester Holt is a distinguished name in American news broadcasting. As of 2024, he commands an annual salary of $10 million and has accumulated a net worth of $35 million. Lester's tenure at NBC began in 2000, and he ascended to the role of anchor for “NBC Nightly News” in 2015.
In February 2025, the journalist announced his decision to step down from “NBC Nightly News” after a decade at the helm, transitioning to a full-time role at “Dateline NBC,” a program he has been associated with since 2011. Throughout his career, Lester has been admired for his ability to navigate complex news landscapes with clarity and poise.
Chelsea Handler - Unknown
Chelsea Handler, a multifaceted comedian, actress, writer, and television host, has built a remarkable career in the entertainment industry. As of 2024, her net worth is estimated at $35 million. Chelsea gained widespread recognition with her late-night talk show, “Chelsea Lately,” which aired on E! from 2007 to 2014.
In March 2025, the celebrity is set to release her third Netflix comedy special, “Chelsea Handler: The Feeling,” where she humorously critiques trends like pickleball. She also released her seventh book, “I'll Have What She's Having,” featuring humorous and heartfelt stories about her journey to becoming the woman she aspired to be.
Shepard Smith - $8 Million
A distinguished journalist, Shepard Smith is best known for his 23-year tenure at Fox News Channel, which he joined at its inception in 1996. During his time there, he served as chief anchor and managing editor of the breaking news division, hosting programs such as “The Fox Report,” “Studio B," and "Shepard Smith Reporting."
In 2007, the journalist signed a three-year contract with Fox News, reportedly earning around $8 million. After departing Fox News in 2019, he joined CNBC in 2020 as the host of "The News with Shepard Smith," a general interest news program airing at 7 p.m. ET.
Jason Statham - Unknown
The quintessential action star, Jason Statham, has solidified his status in Hollywood with a series of high-octane roles. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at $90 million. The actor's journey began with a modest $6k paycheck for his debut in “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels” in 1998. By 2023, he commanded a staggering $25 million for “Expend4bles,” underscoring his ascent in the industry.
Notably, he earned $13 million for “Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw” in 2019. In 2024, Jason starred in “The Beekeeper,” which surpassed $100 million at the global box office, marking the first film of the year to achieve this milestone.
John Oliver - $8 Million per year
The British comedian and satirist John Oliver has become a significant figure in American television. He initially gained national attention as a correspondent on “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.” In 2014, he launched “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver” on HBO, which has since garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards.
As of 2023, John's net worth is estimated to be around $80 million. His annual salary for hosting “Last Week Tonight” is reported to be approximately $8 million. In December 2023, HBO renewed his contract, extending the show through 2026. The comedian's insightful commentary and sharp wit have solidified his status as a leading voice in political satire.
James Corden - $9 Million per year
James Corden, an English actor, comedian, writer, and producer, gained prominence for co-writing and starring in the BBC sitcom “Gavin & Stacey” (2007–2010). In 2015, he became the host of “The Late Late Show with James Corden” on CBS, a role he held until 2023. During his tenure, James's annual salary was reported to be $9 million.
In 2024, he co-wrote and starred in a “Gavin & Stacey” Christmas special, resolving previous cliffhangers. Additionally, the actor joined the cast of Steven Soderbergh's dark comedy film “The Christophers,” filming in London in early 2025. His dynamic career continues to evolve, reflecting his versatility in television and film.
Savannah Guthrie - $8 Million per year
A seasoned journalist and attorney, Savannah Guthrie has been a fixture on NBC’s “Today” show since 2011. She initially joined as a legal analyst before becoming co-anchor in 2012. By 2024, her annual salary was estimated at $8 million, reflecting her seniority and key role in the program.
Alongside co-hosting duties, she has moderated political debates and conducted high-profile interviews with world leaders. In addition to broadcasting, she has co-authored children’s books and inked a lucrative deal for more publications. As of 2024, her net worth is estimated at $40 million, solidifying her status as one of television’s most influential news anchors.
Chris Harrison - $8 Million per year
Chris Harrison is best known for his role as the face of ABC's “The Bachelor” franchise from 2002 to 2021. His tenure encompassed hosting “The Bachelor,” “The Bachelorette,” “Bachelor Pad,” and “Bachelor in Paradise,” establishing him as a central figure in reality television. At the peak of his career, Chris's annual salary was approximately $8 million, reflecting his seniority and the franchise's success.
In June 2021, he departed from the franchise amid controversy, reportedly receiving a mid-range eight-figure payout, estimated between $40 million and $69.9 million. Beyond “The Bachelor,” the celebrity hosted the syndicated version of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” from 2015 to 2019.
Hoda Kotb - $8 Million per year
Hoda Kotb is a distinguished journalist and television personality who has been a star on NBC's “Today” show. She began her tenure in 1998 as a correspondent for “Dateline NBC” and, in 2007, co-hosted the fourth hour of “Today.”
In 2018, she ascended to co-anchor alongside Savannah Guthrie, marking the first all-female anchor duo in the show's history. During her time on the show, Hoda's annual salary was approximately $8 million. In September 2024, the journalist announced her decision to step down from "Today," with her final appearance on January 10, 2025. Post-departure, she plans to venture into the wellness industry, developing a wellness app and organizing retreats.
Anderson Cooper - $20 Million per year
A distinguished American journalist, Anderson Cooper anchors CNN's “Anderson Cooper 360°,” a role he has held since 2003. In 2023, he signed a contract extension with CNN, maintaining his annual salary at $20 million. The reporter also contributes to CBS's “60 Minutes,” further enhancing his journalistic profile.
In April 2023, CNN launched the Sunday primetime series “The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper,” expanding his presence on the network. Despite his Vanderbilt lineage, the celebrity has publicly stated that he did not inherit a significant fortune, attributing his wealth to his journalism career. His net worth in 2024 is estimated at $60 million.
Alan Carr - $2.5 Million per year
The effervescent English comedian and television presenter Alan Carr has charmed audiences with his distinctive humor and engaging personality. He initially gained prominence co-hosting “The Friday Night Project” alongside Justin Lee Collins. In 2009, he launched his talk show, “Alan Carr: Chatty Man,” which enjoyed a successful run until 2016.
In 2013, the comedian signed a two-year contract extension with Channel 4 worth around $5 million, underscoring his value to the network. Beyond television, the presenter has embarked on multiple stand-up tours and authored best-selling books, further bolstering his income. In 2024, he co-hosted the Royal Variety Performance with Amanda Holden, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Jay Leno - $15 Million per year
The iconic comedian and former host of NBC's “The Tonight Show,” Jay Leno, continues to captivate audiences with his stand-up performances. In 2024, at 74, he maintained an active schedule, performing in small comedy clubs approximately 150 times a year, preferring the intimacy of these venues over large-scale specials.
At the end of his reign as host of “The Tonight Show,” Jay earned an annual salary of $15 million. While his earnings from these gigs vary, his passion for live comedy remains evident. The comedian portrayed Ed Sullivan in the 2024 biopic “Midas Man,” highlighting his versatility in the entertainment industry.
Vanna White - $3 Million per year
Vanna White has co-hosted the game show “Wheel of Fortune” since 1982. In 2023, she extended her contract through the 2025–26 season, securing a pay increase from her previous $3 million annual salary. The celebrity's work schedule is notably efficient; she tapes six shows per day over approximately 34 days each year.
This demanding yet concise filming routine allows her to maintain a significant presence on the show while enjoying considerable personal time. Vanna has ventured into real estate, listing her Beverly Hills home for $47.5 million in 2017. She also launched her yarn line, Vanna's Choice, reflecting her passion for crochet and knitting.
Conan O’Brien - $12 Million per year
Conan O'Brien, the celebrated comedian and television host, has had a dynamic career in the entertainment industry. From 2010 to 2021, he hosted the late-night talk show “Conan” on TBS, earning an annual salary that peaked at $12 million. Before this, in 2010, the celebrity departed NBC's “The Tonight Show” after a brief tenure, receiving a settlement reported to be $32.5 million.
In 2024, he launched the travel series “Conan O'Brien Must Go” on Max, where he met fans in countries like Norway, Thailand, Argentina, and Ireland. He also hosted the 97th Academy Awards in 2025, marking his first time in this prestigious role.
Richard Hammond - $7 Million per year
Renowned for co-hosting “Top Gear” and “The Grand Tour,” Richard Hammond has diversified his career beyond television. In 2024, he launched a podcast titled “Who We Are Now” with his daughter Izzy, focusing on men's mental health. The celebrity also manages The Smallest Cog, a classic car restoration business featured in the series "Richard Hammond's Workshop."
In 2023, he collaborated with the Morgan Motor Company to unveil their new flagship model, the Supersport, showcasing his continued influence in the automotive industry. Additionally, the celebrity's annual salary is around $7 million. He earned this salary while co-hosting "The Grand Tour" on Amazon Prime Video.