J.B. Smoove Net Worth

J.B. Smoove’s Net Worth: A Deep Dive into the Comedian’s Career and Finances

J.B. Smoove, the charismatic comedian and actor, has built a successful career, amassing a net worth of $6 million. From his breakout role as Leon Black on HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm” to his stand-up comedy and various film and television appearances, Smoove has become a well-known figure in entertainment. This article explores his journey, providing an in-depth look at his career, net worth, and life beyond the spotlight.

Early Life and Beginnings

Born Jerry Angelo Brooks on December 18, 1965, J.B. Smoove’s early life was shaped by his roots in Plymouth, North Carolina, and his upbringing in Mount Vernon, New York. His move to Mount Vernon at the age of three laid the foundation for his future comedic material, drawing inspiration from his extended family. Graduating from Mount Vernon High School in 1983, he went on to study graphic design and engineering at Norfolk State University in Virginia.

Before finding his niche in stand-up comedy, Smoove held a variety of jobs. These included selling fire extinguishers door-to-door and repairing soda machines in bars. These experiences, though unconventional, contributed to the development of his unique comedic perspective, setting the stage for his eventual success in the entertainment industry.

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Comedy Career: From Def Comedy Jam to SNL

J.B. Smoove’s comedy career took off in the early 1990s. He adopted his stage name and quickly gained recognition, starting with appearances on Russell Simmons’s “Def Comedy Jam.” His stand-up performances led to recurring roles on television series such as “Everybody Hates Chris” and “Saturday Night Live,” where he also served as a writer. Smoove’s work on “SNL” earned him a Writers Guild of America award in 2007. He spent three years on the show before pursuing other opportunities. His role as the narrator in the 2001 comedy “Pootie Tang” further solidified his place in the world of cult films. He also had a two-year run on the sitcom “‘Til Death.”

“Curb Your Enthusiasm” and the Rise of Leon Black

A defining moment in J.B. Smoove’s career came with his role in “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Joining the cast during the show’s sixth season, Smoove played Leon Black. He quickly became a fan favorite. The character’s addition brought a unique dynamic to the show. Introduced as part of a family who sought refuge with Larry David after a natural disaster, Leon’s hilarious and unfiltered demeanor stood out. Smoove’s exceptional comedic timing and improvisational skills transformed Leon into an essential part of the series. His character remained a staple even after the original storyline concluded.

Smoove’s portrayal of Leon is characterized by his sharp wit, confidence, and memorable catchphrases. He serves as a foil to Larry, often providing some of the show’s most memorable moments. His interactions with Larry and the supporting cast create a chemistry that has enriched the narrative, making it difficult to imagine “Curb Your Enthusiasm” without him. In 2017, Smoove even wrote a book in character as Leon, titled “The Book of Leon: Philosophy of a Fool.”

(Photo by Mike Windle/Getty Images for BET)

Beyond “Curb”: Expanding the Portfolio

While appearing on “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” J.B. Smoove has continued to work on other projects. He was a celebrity judge on a revival of “The Gong Show,” hosted by Dave Attell. He was also a cast member on “Cedric the Entertainer Presents.” In 2010, he hosted the Comedy Central stand-up comedy showcase “Russell Simmons Presents: Stand-Up at The El Rey.” In 2012, Smoove made his TV stand-up special debut on Comedy Central with “That’s How I Dooz It.” His film credits include movies like “Movie 43” and “The Smurfs 2,” as well as appearances in more dramatic roles, such as in “We Bought a Zoo,” directed by Cameron Crowe. His distinctive voice has been featured in video games like “Call of Duty: Black Ops II” and “Grand Theft Auto V,” and in animated series such as “Harley Quinn,” “The Simpsons,” and “American Dad!”

In 2014, Smoove hosted the eighth season of “Last Comic Standing.” He also appeared on “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee” with Jerry Seinfeld. He played Santa Claus in a Christmas-themed music video by Sia. He has also demonstrated his culinary skills on shows like “Four Courses with J.B. Smoove” and “Hell’s Kitchen: Rookies vs Veterans.” His improvisational comedy skills have made him a memorable talk show guest.

Personal Life and Philanthropic Ventures

J.B. Smoove married singer Shahidah Omar in 2007. They have one daughter. Unlike his on-screen persona, Smoove is a vegan and a philanthropist. He serves on the board of directors for the local Boys & Girls Club in Mount Vernon. In 2019, he participated in the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game in Charlotte, North Carolina. In 2020, he was recognized for his generosity, reportedly leaving a $1,200 tip at the Brooklyn Chop House in New York City.

J.B. Smoove on Money and Success

“There’s book smart, there is street smart, there’s relationship smart, there’s too many different kinds of smarts to know all of them. Everybody doesn’t know every kind of smart. There’s money smart, there’s movie smart, there’s computer smart. There’s just too many different kinds of smarts for people to know all the smarts.”

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