Aries Spears Net Worth

Aries Spears: Net Worth, Career, and Life Beyond ‘MADtv’

Aries Spears is a multifaceted American comedian, actor, and impressionist, celebrated for his quick wit and uncanny ability to mimic a vast array of celebrities. This comprehensive article delves into Aries Spears’ net worth, exploring his financial success and diverse career spanning stand-up comedy, television, and film. We’ll also examine his early life, rise to fame, memorable roles, and personal life.

Early Life and the Genesis of a Comedian

Aries Spears was born on April 3, 1975, in Chicago, Illinois. His family relocated to New York City when he was still an infant, a move that would set the stage for his future career in entertainment. Spears’ mother, Doris Spears, was a jazz singer, introducing him to the world of music and performance from a young age. At the age of 11, he moved to New Jersey, where he attended Arthur M. Judd Elementary School. By the age of 14, Spears discovered his passion for comedy and began performing stand-up at various comedy clubs in New York City. This early exposure to the comedy scene helped him hone his skills and develop his unique comedic style.

His initial forays into stand-up involved doing celebrity impressions at the Upton Comedy Club in Harlem. During his first performance, he famously did impressions of James Brown and Jack Nicholson. Spears’ high school career was cut short when he was expelled from North Brunswick Township High School during his sophomore year due to a fight with other students. This event, however, did not deter him from pursuing his passion. Instead, it provided him with more time to focus on comedy and develop his craft.

Career Highlights: From Stand-Up to ‘MADtv’

After his expulsion from high school, Aries Spears dedicated himself to comedy, leading to early opportunities in television. He made an appearance on “Def Comedy Jam” with Russell Simmons. This was followed by a spot on “It’s Showtime at the Apollo” in 1987. By the early 1990s, Spears relocated to Los Angeles to further his career, performing stand-up at renowned venues like The Improv and The Laugh Factory, and making strides in television and film.

During this period, Spears appeared in several film and television projects, including “Malcolm X,” “South of Sunset,” “Home of Angels,” and “Jerry Maguire.” He also had roles in TV series like “Crosstown Traffic,” “The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr.,” and “Soul Train.” These early acting roles provided him with valuable experience and exposure, paving the way for his breakthrough role on “MADtv.”

‘MADtv’ Years: The Impersonations and Character Creations

In 1997, Aries Spears joined the cast of “MADtv,” a sketch comedy show on Fox, where he would become a household name. He was the second-longest-serving comedian on the show, appearing in 198 episodes over eight seasons. Spears gained fame for his uncanny celebrity impersonations, which included figures like LL Cool J, Eddie Murphy, Queen Latifah, 50 Cent, O.J. Simpson, Al Roker, and Shaquille O’Neal. His impersonations were not only accurate but also highly comedic, making him a favorite among viewers. He also impersonated actors like Robert De Niro, Sylvester Stallone, Denzel Washington, Al Pacino, and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Additionally, he impersonated fellow comedians like Eddie Murphy and Paul Mooney, showcasing his versatility.

Beyond his impersonations, Spears created several original characters that became fan favorites. These included Belma Buttons, the co-host of the fictional BET show “Reality Check;” Dollar Bill Montgomery, the host of the urban parody “Real **********ing Talk with Dollar Bill Montgomery;” James Brown Jr., co-host of “Cabana Chat;” and controversial rapper Emcee Esher. Spears’ ability to create memorable characters solidified his status as a comedic force on the show. He departed “MADtv” at the end of the show’s tenth season in 2005.

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Life After ‘MADtv’: Continued Success in Television and Film

After leaving “MADtv,” Aries Spears continued to work in television and film. He appeared in a season two episode of the Comedy Central show “Mind of Mencia” in 2005, parodying Jamie Foxx’s role in Kanye West’s music video for “Gold Digger.” In 2006, Spears appeared in the film “Hood of Horror.” He also voiced Wizard Kelly in “The Proud Family.” He appeared as Shaquille O’Neal in two episodes of Frank Caliendo’s sketch comedy show “Frank TV.” Spears continued his work in television with appearances in “The Underground,” “Love Chronicles,” “Josie and the Pussycats,” “Why Do Fools Fall in Love,” “Out-of-Sync,” “The Boondocks,” “American Dad,” and “Black Dynamite.” He also participated in the All-Star Comedy Jam in 2009 alongside Cedric the Entertainer and other comedians.

In 2011, Spears released his stand-up comedy special, “Aries Spears: Hollywood, Look I’m Smiling,” which aired on Showtime. In 2021, he appeared in the dark comedy feature film “The Immoralist,” demonstrating his range as an actor. His post-“MADtv” career underscores his ability to stay relevant and continue working in various facets of the entertainment industry.

Personal Life: Relationships and Family

Aries Spears’ personal life includes two marriages and two children. He married Elisa Lerrgui in 2010, and the couple divorced in 2014. As part of the divorce settlement, Spears was ordered to purchase a new house for his former wife in Florida, with the stipulation that the house be of her choosing and within a specific price range, as well as a luxury SUV. They later remarried on May 31, 2015, but separated again on August 1, 2018, finalizing their divorce by 2019. The couple has two children together, Jordan and Jada. His personal life has often been discussed in his stand-up routines and interviews, adding another dimension to his public persona.

Aries Spears’ Net Worth: Earnings and Financial Standing

As of 2024, Aries Spears’ net worth is estimated to be $4 million. This figure reflects his earnings from various sources, including stand-up comedy performances, television roles, film appearances, and other ventures throughout his career. Spears’ financial success is a testament to his hard work, talent, and ability to remain relevant in the competitive entertainment industry. His sustained success across multiple decades underscores his financial achievements.

Conclusion

Aries Spears’ journey from a young comedian in New York to a celebrated figure on “MADtv” and beyond exemplifies his dedication to his craft and his enduring appeal. With a net worth of $4 million, Spears has built a successful career through hard work, comedic talent, and adaptability. His ability to reinvent himself and stay relevant in a dynamic industry ensures that he will continue to entertain audiences for years to come. His influence on comedy and entertainment will be long-lasting, solidifying his place among the greats.