George Clooney Net Worth (Money & Salary)
a journalist and television host. Growing up in a family with a rich media background, George developed a passion for entertainment early on. His education included attending Northern Kentucky University, where he studied broadcast journalism.
In his youth, Clooney faced numerous challenges, including his struggle with acting and the competitive nature of the industry. He made his television debut in the early 1980s through various roles in series such as “The Facts of Life” and ” ER ” before finding widespread acclaim. Despite the ups and downs, George’s determination propelled him forward in the acting world.
Personal Life
Outside of his professional achievements, Clooney has had a vibrant personal life. He was famously married to actress Talia Balsam from 1989 to 1993, but it was his later union with human rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin in 2014 that captured the public’s attention. The couple welcomed twins, Ella and Alexander, in June 2017, and their family life is often highlighted in the media.
Philanthropic Efforts
Clooney is not only known for his work in film but also for his dedication to humanitarian causes. He co-founded the charity “Not On Our Watch,” which aims to raise awareness and provide assistance to people affected by the humanitarian crises around the globe. George’s efforts in various charitable organizations showcase his commitment to making the world a better place.
Conclusion
George Clooney’s journey has solidified him as a respected figure in Hollywood. With a net worth of $500 million, his achievements extend beyond acting to include successful entrepreneurial ventures and a strong philanthropic presence. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and activists alike.
A former TV host and anchorman, Clooney grew up in a Roman Catholic environment but has described himself as somewhat agnostic in his adult life. He completed his early education at Blessed Sacrament School in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, before the family relocated to Mason, Ohio.
Returning to Kentucky, George experienced Bell’s Palsy during his seventh-grade year, a condition that caused partial facial paralysis. While it resolved within a year, Clooney recalled this period as challenging due to bullying at school. He was passionate about basketball and also played in his basement, even attempting to join the Cincinnati Reds post-high school, though he did not make the team. Clooney attended Northern Kentucky University from 1979 to 1981, aspiring to major in broadcast journalism, but he did not complete his degree.
Early Career
Upon moving to Los Angeles, George briefly lived in his car, though it’s worth mentioning that this vehicle was parked at his famous aunt’s, singer Rosemary Clooney, Beverly Hills mansion. Rosemary’s son, the late Miguel Ferrer, also had a successful career in acting. George quickly landed minor roles in television series such as “The Facts of Life,” “Roseanne,” and “The Golden Girls.”
Breakthrough
His breakthrough came with his major role in the sitcom “E/R” in 1984, distinct from his prominent role on the NBC drama “ER,” which premiered in 1994 with him portraying Dr. Doug Ross.
During his time on “ER,” Clooney participated in various films, including “From Dusk Til Dawn,” “One Fine Day,” and “Out of Sight.” He took over the role of Batman from Val Kilmer, although his appearance was limited to just one film in the franchise. Clooney starred in “ER” from 1994 to 1999, returning briefly in 2000 and 2009, totaling 109 episodes. His performance as Dr. Ross garnered him two Primetime Emmy nominations and three Golden Globe nominations for Best Actor.
After “ER”
In 1999, Clooney departed from “ER” and achieved multiple box office successes, with 2001’s “Ocean’s 11” being his most recognized work. He featured in “The Perfect Storm” and “O’ Brother, Where Art Thou” in 2000. Clooney later reprised his character in “Ocean’s 12” and “Ocean’s 13.” In 2005, he starred in “Syriana,” earning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. That same year, he received nominations for both writing and directing “Good Night, and Good Luck,” making him the first individual in Oscar history nominated for directing one film and acting in another in the same year.
Clooney continued his success with notable films such as “The Men Who Stare at Goats” in 2009, alongside Ewan McGregor, and appeared in “Up in the Air” and “Fantastic Mr. Fox” that same year. He received critical acclaim for films including “The Descendants” in 2011, “The Ides of March” in 2013, and “Argo.” His collaboration with Sandra Bullock in 2013’s “Gravity” also gained critical praise. In 2016, he portrayed Baird Whitlock in “Hail, Caesar!” Recognizing his contributions to the entertainment industry, Clooney received the 2018 AFI Life Achievement Award.
After a four-year hiatus from acting, Clooney made his return in 2019 with the sci-fi film “The Midnight Sky.” He also directed “The Tender Bar,” featuring Ben Affleck as the lead, for Amazon Prime Video. In 2021, he collaborated once again with Brad Pitt on an untitled thriller directed by Jon Watts, and in 2022, he reunited with Julia Roberts for the romantic comedy “Ticket to Paradise.”
Net Worth Milestones
- 1993: $500,000
- 1995: $3 million
- 2000: $10 million
- 2005: $50 million
- 2007: $70 million
- 2012: $100 million
- 2015: $200 million
- 2024: $500 million
(Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Turner )
Personal Life
Involved in numerous political initiatives, Clooney champions causes such as the conflict in Darfur, Sudan, and fundraising efforts following the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. Additionally, he plays a significant role in the Not On Our Watch project. In 2020, following a devastating explosion in Lebanon’s capital, George and his wife contributed $100,000 to three charities: the Lebanese Red Cross, Impact Lebanon, and Baytna Baytak.
George’s marriage to Talia Balsam occurred in 1989, but they divorced in 1993. He lived with his pet pig, Max, until the pig’s passing in 2006. On April 28, 2014, George became engaged to British-Lebanese human rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin, confirmed by a representative from Alamuddin’s law firm, Doughty Street Chambers. Clooney and Alamuddin tied the knot on September 27, 2014, at Ca’ Farsetti, officiated by his friend Walter Veltroni, the former mayor of Rome. The family welcomed twins, Ella and Alexander, on July 6, 2017. In 2020, Clooney shared in interviews that the twins are fluent in Italian, despite neither parent speaking the language.
ALBERTO PIZZOLI/AFP/Getty Images
Salary Highlights
George earned $40,000 for each of the 19 episodes of “Sisters” in which he appeared, totaling $760,000. For his role in “ER,” he was compensated $100,000 per episode but chose not to request a raise, concentrating instead on establishing himself as a prominent star for his future film career. Ultimately, his earnings from “ER” amounted to approximately $11 million. Below are 10 additional noteworthy salaries from George Clooney’s career:
George Clooney’s Career Highlights
- The Monuments Men – $2 million
- The Peacemaker – $3 million
- One Fine Day – $3 million
- The Perfect Storm – $8 million
- Out of Sight – $10 million
- Batman & Robin – $10 million
- Intolerable Cruelty – $15 million
- Ocean’s Thirteen – $15 million
- Ocean’s Eleven – $20 million
- Gravity – $20 million (+ revenue share)
- Wolfs – $35 million
Total = $141 Million
Career Earnings
One of his most significant early paychecks came from the film “One Fine Day” in 1996, where he received $3 million. Additionally, he was paid $10 million for his role in “Batman,” and for “Out of Sight,” he earned another $10 million, while “The Perfect Storm” brought him $8 million.
George received $15 million for his role in “Intolerable Cruelty,” $20 million for “Ocean’s Eleven” (his highest career payout), and another $15 million for “Ocean’s Thirteen.” In 2024, he earned $35 million for his participation in the movie “Wolfs,” which was purchased by Apple. Overall, George has made approximately $300 million before taxes solely from his film and television career.
Nespresso Paycheck
George has been featured in various Nespresso commercials since 2013. This partnership has thus far compensated him with $40 million.
Notably, George allocates a portion of his earnings to fund a spy satellite that provides constant coverage over Sudan. Throughout most of the last decade, this satellite was primarily focused on the former Sudanese dictator, Omar al-Bashir, who faced grave accusations of hate crimes and human rights abuses resulting in countless fatalities. The satellite monitored Bashir himself and kept track of Sudan’s forces to predict movements and potential violations. In April 2019, Omar was removed from power through a military coup. Months later, he was arrested, found guilty, and imprisoned.
Skipped $35 Million Paycheck
During a December 2021 interview, George disclosed that he had an opportunity to earn $35 million for just one day’s work filming a commercial for an airline. This airline was owned by an unnamed country that George referred to as a “U.S. ally” but noted that it “is questionable at times.” After discussing the offer with Amal, they concluded the compensation “wasn’t worth it,” prompting him to decline.
If he had accepted the position and spent six hours filming the commercial, he would have effectively earned $5.8 million PER HOUR.
Lake Como “Villa Oleander”
George and Amal possess residences worldwide.
The most notable of George’s properties is Villa Oleander, situated on Italy’s Lake Como, which he purchased in 2002 for $30 million. This 18th Century villa is located in Laglio, Italy, and boasts the shores of Lake Como. The property includes 15 bedrooms, a private pool, a tennis court, a fully equipped gym, meticulously landscaped gardens, intricately carved ceilings, expansive bathrooms, a dedicated “pizza room,” and a beautifully designed wall to prevent the lake from flooding the house.
Villa Oleander has assumed legendary status within Hollywood circles, as George frequently hosts friends there for significant events. Viola Davis, an Oscar nominee who collaborated with Clooney on “Syriana” and “Solaris,” spent her honeymoon at the villa. George also welcomed actors John Krasinski and Emily Blunt for their wedding and celebration in 2010. He visits the villa so often that the small town of 900 residents where the property is located has instituted a rule: any group larger than three caught loitering, gawking, or taking photos will face fines. Given the considerable use he has gotten out of the home since acquiring it in 2002, he has undoubtedly received value for his investment.
In September 2023, it was reported that George and Amal were considering selling Villa Oleander for approximately $100 million.
GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP/Getty Images
GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP/Getty Images
Photo by Getty Images
Other Real Estate
A six-bedroom mansion in Studio City, California, is owned by George and Amal, which was bought in 1995 for $2.2 million during the peak of his “ER” fame. The current value of this property is likely over $10 million. Additionally, they possess a $7 million property located in Berkshire, England, as well as an apartment situated in New York City among other holdings.
In July 2021, a vineyard near Brignoles, France was acquired by the Clooneys, which includes an 18th-century manor featuring a swimming pool and tennis court. After winning a legal battle regarding the purchase of Domaine du Canadel, they officially obtained the keys for a price of $7.5 million.
The total worth of George and Amal’s real estate portfolio is estimated at $100 million.