Robin Williams Net Worth

What Was Robin Williams’ Net Worth? A Look at His Career, Estate, and Legacy

Robin Williams, a comedic genius and beloved actor, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Beyond his memorable roles and infectious humor, many people are curious about the financial aspects of his life. This article delves into Robin Williams’ net worth at the time of his death, exploring the factors that shaped his wealth, and the lasting impact of his estate.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Robin Williams was born on July 21, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois. He came from a privileged background; his father was a senior executive at Lincoln-Mercury Motors, and his mother was a former model. The family’s move to the San Francisco Bay Area during his childhood exposed him to a new environment, though he was initially a shy child. His comedic inclinations surfaced early on, especially through his impersonations of his grandmother. Williams’ interest in performing truly blossomed in high school when he began participating in plays.

Mork & Mindy: Launching a Star

Williams’ career took off in the 1970s as a stand-up comedian, known for his rapid-fire delivery, improvisational skills, and a wide range of voices and characters. His unique style quickly gained him a following. A pivotal moment arrived when he landed a role on the sitcom “Happy Days,” as the alien Mork from Ork. His character proved to be a major success, leading to the creation of a spin-off series, “Mork & Mindy.” The show, which aired from 1978 to 1982, made Williams a household name, with his performance earning him $35,000 per episode, equivalent to around $130,000 today after adjusting for inflation. This show was the springboard to greater fame and wealth.

A Prolific Film Career and Box Office Success

Williams transitioned to film in 1980 with his debut in Robert Altman’s “Popeye.” He subsequently starred in a string of successful movies, showcasing his versatility across different genres. Globally, films in which Williams had a lead role grossed $3.7 billion at the box office. When adjusting for inflation, the total surpasses $6 billion. His comedic timing, combined with his ability to deliver dramatic performances, made him one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood.

Here are five of his highest-grossing films:

• Night at the Museum: $579 million
• Aladdin: $504 million
• Mrs. Doubtfire: $441 million
• Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian: $402 million
• Happy Feet: $385 million

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Williams was everywhere. He starred in television shows, did stand-up comedy specials, and hosted awards shows. He seamlessly moved between comedic roles and more dramatic performances, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards. He even won an Oscar for his supporting role in “Good Will Hunting.” Despite being a major star, he managed to avoid many of the intrusive aspects of fame that plagued other celebrities.

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The Aladdin Salary Scandal: Disney’s Broken Promises

Robin Williams had a complex relationship with Disney. He first collaborated with the studio in 1987 with “Good Morning, Vietnam,” and agreed to voice the Genie in the animated classic “Aladdin” (1992). For “Aladdin,” Williams initially agreed to a reduced fee of $75,000 (the Screen Actors Guild minimum). He did so because he wanted to be part of the Disney animated tradition and create something that his children would love. However, Williams had two specific stipulations to the deal:

1. The character should not be used to sell merchandise.
2. His image and name should not take up more than 25% of the advertising artwork.

The studio ultimately violated both conditions, especially concerning the advertising, which showed the Genie extensively. Williams was upset and felt betrayed. He refused to work with Disney for several years as a result. Later, Disney attempted to rectify the situation by offering him a $1 million Picasso, though this was not enough. After Disney executive Jeffrey Katzenberg was fired, his replacement, Joe Roth, issued a public apology to Williams. Williams then agreed to star in Disney’s 1996 film “Jack.” He also re-recorded all the voice work for the second “Aladdin” direct-to-video film, “Aladdin and the King of Thieves.”

Highest Film Salary and Other Notable Earnings

Williams’s highest single paycheck came from the 1999 Disney film “Bicentennial Man,” for which he earned $20 million. He earned significant fees for many of his films, which show his box office appeal and value in the industry. His salary for the movie was $20 million. Here’s a breakdown of some of his other notable film salaries:

• RV – $1,000,000
• Man of the Year – $1,000,000
• Insomnia – $2,000,000
• Death to Smoochy – $2,000,000
• Night at the Museum – $5,000,000
• Patch Adams – $10,000,000
• Flubber – $10,000,000
• Jack – $15,000,000
• Jumanji – $15,000,000
• Bicentennial Man – $20,000,000

Personal Life, Death, and the Fate of His Estate

Robin Williams’ net worth at the time of his death on August 11, 2014, was reported to be $50 million. However, this amount doesn’t tell the complete story. Williams had spent millions of dollars on divorce settlements and lifestyle expenses. He was married three times; to Valerie Velardi from 1978-1988, Marsha Garces from 1989 to 2010, and Susan Schneider from 2011 until his death. He paid over $30 million in divorce settlements. His death was ruled a suicide. He was 63 and had been battling severe depression. Williams’s estate plan included a provision restricting the use of his likeness for 25 years. It also designated the Windfall Foundation, a charity, as the beneficiary of these rights.

Real Estate Holdings: Homes and Properties

Williams owned several properties throughout his life, including a notable estate in the Napa Valley named Villa Sorriso. It was a large mansion built on 640 acres. The estate, which means “Villa of Smile” in Italian, featured a vineyard, solar farm, and lake. The main house had 20,000 square feet, including multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and a wine cellar, and a private movie theater. In 2012, he listed the estate for $35 million; his heirs sold it in 2016 for $18.1 million.

In 1991, Williams and his then-wife Marsha purchased a mansion in San Francisco’s Sea Cliff neighborhood for $3.2 million. They remodeled the house with a movie theater, a hidden bar, and a tunnel. After their divorce in 2010, Marsha received the property. In October 2023, it was listed for sale for $25 million. At the time of his death, Williams was living in a home in Paradise Cay, Tiburon, California. He purchased this home in 2008 for $4.05 million. In November 2020, his widow sold the property for $5.35 million. It had previously been listed for $7.25 million.

In 1991 Robin and his then-wife Marsha paid $3.2 million for a palatial 10,600 square foot mansion in San Francisco’s Sea Cliff neighborhood. They proceeded to take the home down to the studs in a renovation that added a movie theater, hidden bar, and secret tunnel that connected his children’s bedrooms. Upon their 2010 divorce, Marsha received this home. She listed it for sale in October 2023 for $25 million. Here is a video tour of Robin’s former Sea Cliff mansion:

At the time of his death Robin lived in a home in the Paradise Cay neighborhood in Tiburon, California. Williams bought the home in 2008 for $4.05 million. The 6,500-square-foot house sits on the Tiburon peninsula with truly epic views of the San Francisco Bay from its double lot. It was built in 1987. The home has six and a half bathrooms. Nearly every room in the home has views of San Francisco Bay. The home is surrounded by an iron gate and the front yard is filled with rose bushes and olive trees. The home features a large living room with a stone fireplace, a dining room with amazing views, and a pool located right outside of the dining room. The home has an eat-in kitchen with a huge center island, stone fireplace, and walk-in pantry. In November 2020 his widow sold this home for $5.35 million. It had been listed a year earlier for $7.25 million. Here is a video tour of this home:

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The Enduring Legacy of Robin Williams

Robin Williams’s legacy extends far beyond his financial wealth. He is remembered for his unparalleled comedic talent, his ability to bring laughter and joy to millions. His performances in films such as “Good Will Hunting” showed his acting range. His commitment to his craft and his open approach to personal struggles made him an actor that audiences connected with. His estate planning ensured that his contributions continue to benefit others, preserving his impact for years to come.