Carol Burnett is one of the most beloved and influential comedians in American entertainment history. With a career spanning over six decades, she has made a lasting impact through television, film, theater, and writing. Best known for The Carol Burnett Show, she became a household name, earning numerous accolades and a devoted fan base. But just how much is Carol Burnett worth today? Let’s take a deep dive into Carol Burnett’s net worth in 2024, exploring how she made her fortune and whether she’s still earning money today.
How Much is Carol Burnett’s Net Worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Carol Burnett’s net worth is estimated to be around $45 million. Her wealth primarily comes from her decades-long career in television, film, and theater. Although she is no longer as active in Hollywood as she once was, royalties, book sales, and occasional guest appearances continue to contribute to her financial status.
Burnett’s fortune has been built through various revenue streams, including her groundbreaking comedy variety show, acting roles, book deals, and even stage performances. Despite her success, she has remained relatively private about her finances, but it is clear that her work has secured her a comfortable lifestyle.
How Did Carol Burnett Make Her Money?
Carol Burnett’s wealth didn’t come overnight. She worked tirelessly for decades, earning her fortune through multiple avenues. Her earnings primarily come from:
- Television (especially The Carol Burnett Show)
- Film appearances
- Book sales
- Stage performances
- Syndication and royalties
Each of these contributed significantly to her financial success. Let’s take a closer look at the key aspects of her career that helped build her impressive net worth.
TV Shows & Comedy
Carol Burnett became a television superstar through her work in comedy and variety shows. Her biggest success came from The Carol Burnett Show, which aired from 1967 to 1978. The show was a massive hit, bringing her not only fame but also substantial earnings.
Movies & Acting
In addition to television, Burnett also had a successful acting career in films. Some of her most notable movies include:
- Annie (1982) – where she played the villainous Miss Hannigan
- Noises Off (1992)
- Horton Hears a Who! (2008) – where she provided a voice role
While her film roles weren’t her main source of income, they certainly added to her overall net worth.
Book Sales
Carol Burnett is also a successful author. She has written several memoirs and books that have been bestsellers. Some of her most popular books include:
- One More Time: A Memoir (1986)
- This Time Together: Laughter and Reflection (2010)
- Carrie and Me: A Mother-Daughter Love Story (2013)
These books not only helped preserve her legacy but also brought in additional revenue through sales and royalties.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Carol Burnett’s journey to fame wasn’t easy. She was born on April 26, 1933, in San Antonio, Texas, and was raised primarily by her grandmother in Los Angeles. Coming from a struggling background, she initially had dreams of becoming a writer but eventually found her calling in acting and comedy.
Her first major break came in the 1950s when she landed a role on The Garry Moore Show, a variety show that helped launch her career. Her comedic talent and natural charisma quickly made her a standout performer, setting the stage for her future success.
Her First Big Break in TV
Before The Carol Burnett Show, Burnett’s first major television success came when she appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show and The Garry Moore Show. These appearances helped her gain national recognition. She soon became a regular guest on television talk shows and comedy specials, proving herself as a comedic powerhouse.
Her early TV work opened doors for bigger opportunities, including her own variety show, which would make her one of the most famous female comedians in history.
The Start of ‘The Carol Burnett Show’
In 1967, Carol Burnett launched The Carol Burnett Show, a sketch comedy and variety program that would go on to become one of the most iconic shows in television history. The show ran for 11 seasons, winning multiple Emmy Awards and earning a loyal fanbase.
The show featured hilarious skits, memorable characters, and celebrity guest stars. Burnett’s chemistry with her co-stars, including Harvey Korman, Tim Conway, and Vicki Lawrence, made it a must-watch program for millions of viewers. The success of the show brought her significant financial rewards, as well as long-term royalties from reruns and syndication deals.
Moving Into Movies and Guest Roles
After The Carol Burnett Show ended in 1978, Burnett continued to work in Hollywood, taking on various acting roles in movies and TV shows. While her variety show was her biggest financial success, her acting roles helped her remain relevant in the industry and brought in additional income.
Carol Burnett vs. Lucille Ball
Carol Burnett and Lucille Ball were often compared due to their comedic styles. While Ball was the queen of sitcoms with I Love Lucy, Burnett ruled the variety show format. Both women were pioneers in television comedy, breaking barriers for female comedians.
Carol Burnett vs. Betty White
Betty White and Carol Burnett were two of the most beloved female entertainers in television history. While White’s career focused on sitcoms like The Golden Girls, Burnett thrived in sketch comedy. Both had long, successful careers, but Burnett’s influence in comedy variety shows remains unmatched.
Carol Burnett vs. Today’s Comedians
Comedy has changed significantly since Burnett’s time. Modern comedians like Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Kristen Wiig have cited Burnett as an inspiration. While today’s comedy relies more on stand-up and digital content, Burnett’s work laid the foundation for female comedians in television.
Is Carol Burnett Still Making Money Today?
Yes, Carol Burnett is still making money today. While she is not actively working in major Hollywood productions, she earns money from royalties, syndication deals, and book sales.
Shows like The Carol Burnett Show are still aired on classic TV channels, streaming platforms, and DVD collections, generating passive income for her. Additionally, her books continue to sell, and she occasionally makes guest appearances on TV, further contributing to her earnings.
Despite stepping back from the spotlight, Burnett remains a respected and celebrated figure in the entertainment industry.
The Bottom Line
Carol Burnett’s net worth in 2024 is estimated at around $45 million, a testament to her long and successful career in entertainment. From her groundbreaking variety show to her film roles and bestselling books, she has built an impressive fortune. Even though she is no longer as active in Hollywood, she continues to earn money from royalties and book sales.
Her impact on comedy is undeniable, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of entertainers. Whether through reruns of The Carol Burnett Show or the wisdom shared in her books, Carol Burnett’s influence remains as strong as ever.
