Drew Carey is an American actor, comedian, and television host who has a net worth of $165 million. Drew Carey is most widely recognized for his role on “The Drew Carey Show” and as the host of “The Price is Right.” During his time on The Drew Carey Show, he was one of the highest-paid entertainers in the world, earning the inflation-adjusted equivalent of $1 million per episode. The show, in which he played a fictionalized version of himself, was set in his hometown of Cleveland and became a staple for its humor, heart, and relatable portrayal of everyday life. Drew’s affable nature and comedic timing made the show a hit with audiences and solidified his place in television history.
Who is Drew Carey?
Drew Carey is an American comedian, actor, and television host, best known for hosting The Price Is Right since 2007. He gained fame with his sitcom The Drew Carey Show (1995-2004) and as a regular on Whose Line Is It Anyway? Known for his quick wit and relatable humor, Carey has also had a successful career as a producer, philanthropist, and advocate for mental health awareness. He has an estimated net worth of $165 million.
Drew Carey Early Life and Career Beginnings
Drew Allison Carey was born on May 23, 1958, and was raised in Cleveland, Ohio, as the youngest of three sons. His father passed away from a heart attack when he was eight years old. He graduated from James Ford Rhodes High School in 1975, where he played the trumpet in the marching band. He continued his education at Kent State University, where he was expelled twice for poor academic performance, eventually leaving the college after three years and enlisting in the United States Marine Corps Reserve in 1980. As a Marine, he served for six years as a field radio operator in Ohio.
Drew Carey Education
His educational journey took him to Kent State University, where he played the trumpet in the marching band. Despite facing academic challenges, including expulsion, Carey found direction in the United States Marine Corps Reserve, serving as a field radio operator for six years starting in 1980.
Improv and Acting Career
Carey first gained national recognition as a comedian when he appeared on the 1988 show “Star Search,” followed by appearances on shows such as “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” and “Late Night with David Letterman.” His first stand-up comedy special, “Drew Carey: Human Cartoon,” aired on Showtime in 1994 and won him a CableACE Award for Best Writing. His success in stand-up comedy helped him land supporting roles on television shows and films such as “Coneheads” (1993) and the sitcom “The Good Life” (1994).
Drew Carey Personal Life
He was previously engaged to Nicole Jaracz from 2007 to 2012. He announced his engagement to sex therapist Amie Harwick in January 2018, although the couple ended their engagement later that year in November. In February 2020, Harwick was found dead in Hollywood Hills, and an ex-boyfriend was arrested on suspicion of her murder.His impressive net worth is the result of many years in comedy. In addition to his success in television, comedy, and the world of game shows, Carey is also famous for his activism toward the cause of public libraries. He often donates time and money to keeping the libraries open and operational.
Drew Carey Comedy
In 1985, Carey’s comedy journey began at the suggestion of a friend, David Lawrence, who encouraged him to delve into joke writing. A year later, he seized the spotlight as the Master of Ceremonies at the Cleveland Comedy Club, marking the inception of his stand-up career. National recognition beckoned when Carey appeared on the 1988 show “Star Search,” leading to appearances on iconic programs like “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” and “Late Night with David Letterman.” His first stand-up comedy special, “Drew Carey: Human Cartoon,” aired on Showtime in 1994, earning him a CableACE Award for Best Writing.
The Drew Carey Show
A defining chapter in Carey’s career unfolded with “The Drew Carey Show,” a sitcom where he portrayed a fictionalized version of himself in his hometown of Cleveland. The show, which premiered in September 1995, became a cultural phenomenon, amassing high ratings and affection from viewers for its humor, heart, and relatable portrayal of everyday life.
Hosting Career
Carey first began hosting game shows in 2007, his first gig being the CBS game show pilot “Power of 10” (August 2007-January 2008). He was contacted by CBS about the opportunity to replace Bob Barker as host of “The Price Is Right” after taping the pilot episode of “Power of 10.” He taped his first “The Price” episode in August 2007, and the episodes began airing in October 2007. Carey celebrated his 10th anniversary as host of the show in 2017, becoming only the second host alongside Bob Barker to celebrate the achievement.
Seattle Sounders Investment
Drew Carey was an early investor in the Seattle Sounders F.C. Major League Soccer team. He owns 7.5% of the team, having purchased his stake for an undisclosed amount around the team’s inception. In June 2022, a new investor purchased a 3 to 5% stake in the Sounders from one of the other partners. This new unnamed investor bought their stake at a reported $680 million overall team valuation. At that level Drew Carey’s 7.5% stake was worth $51 million.
Activism and Sports Ownership
Beyond the realm of entertainment, Carey has been a vocal advocate for public libraries, generously contributing time and funds to support their operations. A somewhat surprising facet of his life is his affiliation with the Libertarian party, aligning with principles of limited government and lower taxes.
FAQs
What is Drew Carey best known for?
Drew Carey is best known for hosting The Price Is Right since 2007 and starring in The Drew Carey Show from 1995 to 2004.
What is Drew Carey’s net worth?
Drew Carey has an estimated net worth of $165 million, thanks to his successful career in television and comedy.
Did Drew Carey serve in the military?
Yes, Drew Carey served six years in the United States Marine Corps Reserve as a field radio operator.
What are Drew Carey’s philanthropic efforts?
Drew Carey is a strong advocate for public libraries and has donated significant time and money to keep them operational.
Does Drew Carey own a sports team?
Yes, Drew Carey owns a 7.5% stake in the Seattle Sounders F.C., a Major League Soccer team.
In Short
Drew Carey is a multi-talented entertainer, celebrated for his comedy, acting, and long-standing hosting role on The Price Is Right. From his military service to his success in television and philanthropy, he has made a lasting impact on entertainment and beyond.
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