When the famous command “Come on down!” echoes through the studio, viewers are focused on the excited contestants and the fabulous prizes. But behind the scenes of America’s longest-running game show, there’s another big number worth talking about: the salary of its host, Drew Carey. It’s a figure that reflects not only his success on the show but a long and incredibly profitable career in entertainment.
So, let’s pull back the curtain on the Showcase Showdown and explore exactly what Drew Carey earns, how he built his fortune, and the smart moves that have made him one of television’s wealthiest personalities.
The Big-Ticket Answer to Drew Carey’s Game Show Payday
Drew Carey reportedly earns a staggering annual salary of $12.5 million for his hosting duties on The Price Is Right. This impressive paycheck easily places him among the top 20 highest-paid television hosts in the world. It’s a testament to his enduring appeal and the show’s continued popularity under his leadership.
Since taking over the microphone from the legendary Bob Barker in 2007, Carey has successfully made the role his own. He has guided the beloved game show for well over a decade, cementing his place in television history and earning a salary that reflects his vital role in the show’s ongoing success.
Beyond the Showcase Showdown: Unpacking Drew Carey’s $165 Million Net Worth
While his game show salary is certainly impressive, it’s just one part of a much larger financial picture. Drew Carey’s total net worth is estimated to be a massive $165 million. This fortune wasn’t built on Plinko chips and prize packages alone; it’s the result of decades of work as a stand-up comedian, sitcom star, producer, and savvy investor.
The Sitcom Fortune That Set the Stage
Long before he was giving away brand-new cars, Carey was the star of his own hit sitcom. At the height of The Drew Carey Show’s popularity in the early 2000s, he was one of the highest-paid actors on television, earning an almost unbelievable $1 million per episode. This period was foundational, providing the capital that he would later use to build his multifaceted empire.
From Improv Host to Soccer Team Owner
Carey’s career is marked by diverse and successful projects. Many fans remember him as the affable host of the American version of the improvisational comedy show Whose Line Is It Anyway?, a role that further solidified his status as a household name.
However, one of his smartest financial moves happened off-screen. In 2007, Carey became a part owner of the Major League Soccer team, the Seattle Sounders FC. His initial 7.5% stake has proven to be a phenomenally successful investment, with his share now valued at an estimated $51 million.
A Diversified Portfolio of Luxury Assets
A significant portion of Carey’s wealth is tied up in tangible assets that go far beyond a typical stock portfolio. He has built a considerable real estate empire that includes more than a dozen properties. His holdings also feature a collection of luxury cars and multiple yachts, showcasing a lifestyle built on decades of success in the entertainment industry.
What’s Next for Drew Carey and His Fortune?
With his position on The Price Is Right secure and his investments continuing to grow, Drew Carey’s financial journey is far from over. He has masterfully transitioned from a sitcom superstar to a beloved game show host and a shrewd businessman. As he continues to invite contestants to “Come on down,” his own net worth is only expected to climb, solidifying a legacy built on laughter, opportunity, and incredibly smart financial plays.