What Is Katt Williams’ Net Worth and Salary?
Katt Williams Net Worth: Katt Williams, an American comedian, rapper, and actor, has a net worth of $5 million. He became famous for his energetic stand-up comedy, known for sharp observations on various topics. Williams’ comedy specials, like “Katt Williams: Live” and “It’s Pimpin’ Pimpin’,” received widespread acclaim. He also gained recognition from his appearances on the improv show “Wild ‘n Out” and roles in movies like “Norbit” (2007). However, his most iconic role is Money Mike in the comedy “Friday After Next” (2002).
2024 Shannon Sharpe Interview
In January 2024, Katt Williams appeared on Shannon Sharpe’s “Club Shay Shay” YouTube show/podcast. During the interview, Shannon asked about Katt’s finances, mentioning how actor Terry Crews claimed that Katt was homeless during the filming of “Friday After Next.” Katt explained that before filming, he needed $100,000 for dental surgery and chose to live in his trailer due to a lack of funds.
Katt also addressed his net worth, referring to an estimate from CelebrityNetWorth. He claimed that at one point, he had more money on him than his reported net worth. He stated that he made more from his last Netflix special than what was listed and mentioned earning $100,000 for stand-up shows in small towns, often donating $10,000 to local charities. Katt also claimed to have turned down $50 million four times to maintain his integrity, earning $10 million per Netflix special and even made a controversial statement about Ludacris and the Illuminati.
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Financial Challenges
Although Katt Williams is likely a high-income individual, he has faced legal and financial issues in recent years. At one point, there were rumors of a home foreclosure on a property in Calabasas, California. Currently, he seems to live in a modest home in Lawrenceville, Georgia, purchased in 2013 for $235,000. Additionally, Katt has mentioned losing $59 million to embezzlement by former employees.
Allegedly Stolen $59 Million
In a June 2019 interview with Jemele Hill, Katt claimed he lost $59 million to an embezzlement scheme involving his former employees. The issue came to light during a U.S. Department of Justice investigation into his finances. The investigation uncovered that his employees were involved in the embezzlement. Katt mentioned that he had to stay vague on the details due to the ongoing nature of the case but confirmed that the employees were fired after their crimes were discovered.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Katt Williams, born Micah Sierra Williams on September 2, 1971, in Cincinnati, Ohio, grew up in Dayton, Ohio. Raised by politically and socially active parents, Katt excelled in school, receiving numerous academic honors. At 13, he emancipated himself from his parents and moved to Florida, where he supported himself as a street vendor. He began performing comedy in his hometown of Cincinnati, sneaking into clubs despite being underage. In his late teens, he moved to San Francisco, where he honed his stand-up act in local nightclubs.
Comedy Career
Katt Williams built his career as a stand-up comedian in San Francisco during the late 1990s, performing at venues like the Hollywood Park Casino, The Icehouse, and The Improv. His comedy led to appearances on BET’s “Comic View,” where he became known for his sharp commentary on topics like Michael Jackson, American evangelism, and race. Over time, Katt built a loyal following, especially among young African-American males.
His first comedy special, “Katt Williams Live: Let a Playa Play,” aired in 2006, followed by his HBO special, “The Pimp Chronicles, Pt. 1,” the same year. He gained mainstream success with his film “American Hustle” in 2007. Katt’s third comedy special, “It’s Pimpin’ Pimpin’,” released in 2008, marked a shift to more political material. He toured extensively in 2008, with his tour named the best of the year by “Billboard.”
After a four-year break from stand-up, Katt returned in 2012 with his third HBO special, “Kattpacalypse.” He continued with his “Growth Spurt” tour in 2013 and released another HBO special, “Katt Williams: Priceless: Afterlife,” directed by Spike Lee. In 2018, Katt released his first Netflix special, “Great America,” filmed in Jacksonville, Florida. His latest special, “World War III,” premiered on Netflix in 2022.
Film and Television Career
Katt Williams made his acting debut in 2002 on the TV series “NYPD Blue.” He gained popularity on MTV’s “Wild ‘n Out” and appeared in Nick Cannon’s music video for “Gigolo.” Katt also appeared as Bobby Shaw on the sitcom “My Wife and Kids” and served as the roastmaster for the “Comedy Central Roast of Flavor Flav.” He won an Emmy in 2018 for his guest role on the show “Atlanta.”
Katt’s big-screen debut was in the 2002 film “Friday After Next,” where he played Money Mike. He also appeared in movies like “Ganked” (2005), “Norbit” (2007), and “First Sunday” (2008). More recently, Katt has starred in films like “Scary Movie 5” (2013), “Father Figures” (2017), and “2 Minutes of Fame” (2020).
Legal Issues and Personal Life
Katt Williams has had a history of confrontational behavior at live shows, leading to early endings. He has also faced multiple arrests, including a 2006 incident at Los Angeles International Airport for carrying a concealed firearm. Katt was sentenced to three years’ probation. Other legal issues include arrests for assault in 2011 and 2012.
In his personal life, Katt was briefly part of the Nation of Islam while living in the San Francisco Bay Area but now identifies as a Christian, often wearing a cross during performances. He is the father of 10 children, and his son, Micah Stephen Williams, is an actor known for his role on the Disney Channel show “Good Luck Charlie.”
In summary, Katt Williams’ net worth and career reflect both significant achievements and challenges. Despite legal troubles and financial issues, he remains a prominent figure in comedy and entertainment.