Burt Sugarman at a Glance
Burt Sugarman: From Drag Racing to Hollywood – A Look at His Net Worth and Career
What Is Burt Sugarman’s Net Worth?
Burt Sugarman, a name synonymous with television and film production, boasts an impressive net worth. His combined net worth with his wife, Mary Hart, is estimated at $100 million. This figure reflects not only his success in the entertainment industry but also his shrewd business acumen and diverse investments. Sugarman’s career spans several decades, during which he has produced a wide array of shows and films, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape. His contributions have earned him both critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination and a Primetime Emmy nomination.
Sugarman’s most notable work includes producing such iconic shows as “The Richard Pryor Show” (1977), “The Wizard of Odds” (1973), “The Newlywed Game” (1988), and “Celebrity Sweepstakes” (1974). His ventures extended into the film industry, where he earned producer credits on films like “Kiss Me Goodbye” (1982) and “Children of a Lesser God” (1986). Notably, Sugarman created and executive produced the popular variety series “The Midnight Special,” which aired from 1972 to 1981, showcasing legendary musical performances. His involvement in entertainment wasn’t just limited to behind-the-scenes roles; he also appeared in infomercials, further demonstrating his dynamic approach to the industry.
Early Life and Entrepreneurial Ventures
Burton Roy Sugarman was born on January 4, 1939, in Los Angeles, California. His early life was marked by a diverse range of interests, including a passion for speed and competition. As a teenager, he actively participated in dirt bike riding, even securing a California drag-racing championship, showcasing an early competitive spirit. Demonstrating exceptional academic aptitude, Sugarman earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Southern California in just three years. He transitioned from academics to entrepreneurship, initially selling cars and establishing a company to manage financing contracts. This move proved his early business sense and his willingness to take risks.
At the age of 24, a chance encounter with a photograph of a Ghia, an Italian car, sparked an interest that would further shape his career. Sugarman flew to Turin to acquire one, subsequently becoming the North American distributor for Ghia. This marked an early expansion into the automotive industry, followed by distributorships for Excalibur and Maserati. However, after experiencing the glamour and excitement of the car business, Sugarman decided to shift gears. As he told the “Los Angeles Times” in 1973, “At 28, I got tired of all the beautiful cars and fun clients; I sold the distributorships and retired to play golf. After about five months of being a playboy, I got bored. That’s when I became involved with show business.”