Mario Lopez, an American actor, television host, and spokesperson, boasts a net worth of $35 million. He became a household name due to his role as A.C. Slater on the iconic 1990s show “Saved by the Bell.” Even after years, the character remains one of his most recognized portrayals. Lopez’s journey in the entertainment industry began in local theater and television commercials, leading to his breakout role and long-lasting fame.
A Career That Evolved
Following the end of “Saved by the Bell,” Mario Lopez transitioned smoothly into other acting roles, starring in a mix of television shows and movies. In the 2000s, he shifted his focus to hosting, starting with the entertainment news program “Extra.” His natural charm and engaging personality made him a hit as a host, where he stayed for over ten years. By 2019, Lopez left “Extra” for “Access Hollywood,” where his salary saw an increase to $8 million annually.
In addition to hosting “Access Hollywood,” Lopez has hosted major events like “The X Factor,” “Dancing with the Stars,” and various awards shows, further cementing his place in television hosting.
A Family-Oriented Star
Outside of his career, Lopez enjoys a rich family life. He frequently shares moments with his wife and children on social media, showcasing his commitment to his family. A fitness enthusiast and author, Mario has written books about health, fitness, and his personal life. His active lifestyle extends beyond his work, as he also hosts a radio show and participates in several endorsement deals.
At the height of his hosting career, Lopez earned a substantial salary. While working at “Extra,” his income reached $6 million per year. After moving to “Access Hollywood” in 2019, his salary increased to $8 million annually, reflecting his growing popularity and influence in the television industry.
Early Life and Talents
Mario Lopez Jr. was born on October 10, 1973, in San Diego, California, into a Catholic Mexican family. Raised with a strong cultural foundation, Mario was surrounded by the arts from an early age. By three, he was learning tap and jazz dance, and by seven, he had explored activities like karate and wrestling.
His versatility showed early on, and it was clear that he had a natural talent for anything his parents supported. Alongside his acting ambitions, Lopez competed as a wrestler. By his senior year in high school, he placed second in San Diego and seventh in California in the wrestling championships.
Lopez’s Acting Beginnings
Mario Lopez’s acting career began when he was just ten years old. His early talents, especially in dance, made him a natural fit for commercials. He quickly started booking roles, securing a string of commercials and advertisements before landing a significant acting role.
In 1987, Lopez appeared in “The Golden Girls,” portraying a Latino boy. His breakthrough role came in 1989 when he was cast as A.C. Slater in “Saved by the Bell.” The role catapulted him to stardom, and the show became a cultural phenomenon that reached millions globally. Lopez remained a key figure in the series for its entire run, which lasted until 1993.
A Pause and Return to Acting
After “Saved by the Bell” ended, Lopez took a break from acting but returned to television in 1997. He starred in the TV movie “Breaking the Surface: The Greg Louganis Story,” playing Olympic diver Greg Louganis. His next major role came in 1998 with the television show “Pacific Blue,” although the series was canceled after two seasons.
Lopez’s next significant role came in 2006 when he joined the soap opera “The Bold and the Beautiful” as Dr. Christian Ramirez. He also appeared in notable guest roles, including on shows like “Nip/Tuck” and “George Lopez.” Lopez further broadened his horizons with a Broadway debut in 2008 in the musical “A Chorus Line.”
Reality Television Success
In 2006, Lopez entered the world of reality TV when he joined “Dancing with the Stars” for its third season. Paired with professional dancer Karina Smirnoff, the duo finished in second place. In 2010, Lopez appeared in the reality series “Mario Lopez: Saved by the Baby,” which focused on his relationship with his girlfriend, Courtney Mazza, and their preparation for their first child.
Lopez has also built a strong hosting career, beginning with “Name Your Adventure” in 1992. Over the years, he hosted various shows such as “Pet Star” and several Miss America beauty pageants. In 2012, Lopez hosted “The X Factor” alongside Khloe Kardashian, and later took on solo hosting duties. He has also hosted “America’s Best Dance Crew” and “Top Pop Group.”
Author and Fitness Enthusiast
Mario Lopez’s dedication to fitness is evident in his writing. He published several books on fitness, including “Mario Lopez Knockout Fitness” (2008), “Extra Lean” (2010), and “Extra Lean Family” (2012). His fitness books, especially “Extra Lean,” became bestsellers and highlighted his approach to health and well-being.
In 2011, Lopez released a children’s book, “Mario and Baby Gia,” which focuses on his relationship with his daughter. His multifaceted career has shown that Lopez is as passionate about promoting a healthy lifestyle as he is about entertaining.
Personal Life and Relationships
Mario Lopez’s personal life has been equally public. He first married actress Ali Landry in 2004, but their marriage was annulled shortly after due to infidelity allegations. He then dated his “Dancing with the Stars” partner Karina Smirnoff from 2006 to 2008.
While working on “A Chorus Line” on Broadway, Lopez met Courtney Mazza. The couple had their first child together in 2010, married in 2012, and have since expanded their family with two more children, both sons.
Lopez is also an avid fitness enthusiast outside of his work. He enjoys boxing as a hobby and holds a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. In 2022, he helped revitalize the Puerto Rican boy band Menudo as their manager, and in 2023, they released a new single under his management.
Real Estate Ventures
Mario Lopez’s real estate journey began early. At just 21 years old, he bought a modest home in Burbank, California, for $240,000. He sold this property for over $1 million in 2022. In 2004, Lopez purchased another home in Burbank for $1.25 million, later selling it for $2.09 million in December 2022.
From 2010 to 2022, Lopez lived in a Spanish-style home in Glendale, California, which he bought for $1.95 million. In 2022, he listed this property for $6.5 million, eventually selling it for $4.55 million. In 2022, Lopez purchased a luxurious 9,000-square-foot mansion in La Cañada Flintridge for $9.4 million.
