Ricky Gervais, the British actor, comedian, writer, and filmmaker, has an impressive net worth of $160 million. His wealth primarily comes from his role as the creator of The Office, one of the most successful TV series of all time.
Gervais co-created the British version of the show in 2001, and it was later adapted into an American version that aired for nine seasons.
The American The Office became one of the most lucrative shows in syndication, with billions of dollars earned in royalties and syndication fees.
As a result, Gervais continues to receive millions from syndication profits, owning 10% of the show’s syndication equity points.
Earnings from The Office
Gervais and his co-creator, Stephen Merchant, earned tens of millions during the original run of The Office through producer and creator credits. Gervais’ biggest windfall came from the extremely profitable syndication and licensing deals.
He owns 10% of the profits generated by The Office. In 2019, Comcast’s NBC paid $500 million for the rights to air the show starting in 2021, adding to Gervais’ already substantial earnings from the show’s past deals. To date, he has earned over $100 million in syndication sales.
Comedy Tours and Netflix Specials
Apart from The Office, Gervais continues to generate wealth through his stand-up comedy tours and Netflix specials.
The comedian reportedly earned $20 million for a single stand-up special from Netflix. His 2023 special, Armageddon, grossed over $30 million. Netflix’s partnership with Gervais has been highly profitable for both parties, with his specials consistently drawing large audiences.
Early Life and Career
Born on June 25, 1961, in Reading, England, Ricky Gervais grew up as the youngest of four siblings. He studied philosophy at University College London, where he met his long-term partner, Jane Fallon.
Gervais initially sought a career in music but turned to radio and eventually television. In the 1990s, he worked as head of speech at XFM, where he met Stephen Merchant, with whom he later created The Office.
Breakthrough with The Office
In 1999, Gervais and Merchant created a short film featuring the character David Brent, which led to the creation of The Office.
Despite a rocky start with a short run of six episodes, the show became a hit and gained a massive following. The success of the British version paved the way for an American remake, and The Office was eventually adapted in other countries as well.
Following the success of The Office, Gervais continued to create and star in new projects, such as Extras, The Ricky Gervais Show, Derek, and After Life. His other works have solidified his place as a comedic force, earning him multiple awards and nominations, including BAFTA and Golden Globe Awards.
Film Roles and Success
Aside from TV, Ricky Gervais has appeared in several films, including Night at the Museum, where he played a museum director, and Ghost Town, in which he starred opposite Tea Leoni. Gervais has also voiced characters in animated films like Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank (2022).
Philanthropy and Personal Life
Ricky Gervais is a vocal animal rights advocate and has pledged to leave his fortune to animal rights charities.
He is known for his strong support of same-sex marriage, as well as his outspoken stance on atheism. Gervais and his partner, Jane Fallon, have been together since 1982 but have chosen not to marry or have children.
Real Estate and Lifestyle
Gervais and Fallon own a number of high-end properties, including a $16 million home in London, and a $3.75 million apartment in Manhattan. They also previously listed their $11.8 million London home for sale in 2015.
Through his work in television, comedy, film, and his successful business ventures, Ricky Gervais has established himself as a major figure in the entertainment industry, securing his financial future for years to come.
