Katt Williams, an American comedian, rapper, and actor, boasts a net worth of $5 million. He rose to fame primarily through his dynamic stand-up comedy routines, characterized by lively delivery and insightful commentary on various subjects.
His comedy specials, such as “Katt Williams: Live” and “It’s Pimpin’ Pimpin’,” have garnered widespread praise. Additionally, Williams is recognized for his appearances on the improvisational comedy series “Wild ‘n Out” and his roles in movies like “Norbit” (2007). However, he is perhaps most renowned for his portrayal of Money Mike in the comedy film “Friday After Next” (2002).
| Category | Richest Celebrities › Richest Comedians |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $2 Million |
| Birthdate | Sep 2, 1973 (50 years old) |
| Birthplace | Cincinnati |
| Gender | Male |
| Height | 5 ft 4 in (1.65 m) |
| Profession | Comedian, Actor, Rapper, Film Producer, Screenwriter |
| Nationality | United States of America |
2024 Shannon Sharpe Interview
In January 2024, Katt featured on an episode of Shannon Sharpe’s “Club Shay Shay” YouTube show/podcast. During the episode, Shannon raised inquiries about Katt’s financial circumstances, citing instances such as Terry Crews’ assertion that during the filming of “Friday After Next,” Katt was reportedly without a home. Katt clarified that prior to filming, he faced a $100,000 dental surgery expense which he couldn’t afford at the time, hence he opted to reside in his trailer during shooting.
Furthermore, Katt discussed his net worth, seemingly referencing an estimation provided by CelebrityNetWorth. Katt asserted that upon checking his net worth, he possessed more than the reported figure at the time. He also claimed to have earned more from his last Netflix special than what was stated in his net worth. Additionally, he stated earning $100,000 from stand-up shows in smaller towns, of which he donates $10,000 to local charities when he reaches that threshold. He asserted declining $50 million offers multiple times in his career to uphold his integrity, claiming to be among the wealthiest individuals in history, earning $10 million per Netflix special. He also made an unsubstantiated claim about Ludacris selling his soul to the Illuminati for $200 million.
While it’s plausible that our net worth assessment might be conservative and Katt likely earns a substantial income, he has encountered legal issues and purported financial difficulties recently, including rumors of a foreclosure on a property in Calabasas, California. Presently, Katt seems to reside in a relatively modest home in Lawrenceville, Georgia, which he purportedly purchased in 2013 for $235,000. Additionally, there are rumors surrounding an allegedly stolen $59 million.
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Allegedly Stolen $59 Million
During a June 2019 conversation with Jemele Hill, Katt Williams disclosed a substantial loss of $59 million due to embezzlement carried out by former members of his staff. The shocking extent of his financial woes came to light during a scrutiny by the US Department of Justice. Through these inquiries, it was revealed that individuals within his inner circle were involved in the misappropriation of funds.
Williams expressed his disbelief, stating, “In my search for who was the enemy that was causing all these things to repeatedly happen to me over and over again when they shouldn’t, we uncovered that it was actually my people that was involved.” The Department of Justice’s indictments exposed the embezzlement scheme.
However, Williams refrained from divulging intricate details, citing the ongoing nature of the case. Despite terminating the implicated employees upon discovery, they attempted to extort additional funds from him. Furthermore, authorities initially suspected Williams of involvement in money laundering, a notion dispelled upon closer investigation.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Katt Williams, originally named Micah Sierra Williams, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on September 2, 1971, but is commonly known by his nickname “Katt.” Raised in Dayton, Ohio, by parents deeply involved in political and social issues, Williams excelled academically, earning high grades and numerous academic accolades.
At the age of 13, he became independent from his parents and relocated to Florida, supporting himself through street vending. His comedy career began in Cincinnati’s Evanston neighborhood, sneaking into clubs despite his underage status. Later, in his late teens, he moved to San Francisco, refining his stand-up routine in local nightclubs.
Comedy Career
During the late 1990s, as a stand-up comedian based in San Francisco, Katt showcased his comedic talents at renowned venues like the Hollywood Park Casino, The Icehouse, and The Improv. His performances on platforms such as “Comic View” on BET cemented his presence in the comedy scene. With a focus on topics ranging from Michael Jackson to societal ironies on race in America, Katt garnered a devoted following, particularly among young African-American men.
His comedy journey saw milestones such as his debut special, “Katt Williams Live: Let a Playa Play,” airing in 2006, followed by his HBO debut, “The Pimp Chronicles, Pt. 1,” in the same year. “American Hustle” in 2007 propelled him to mainstream recognition. Subsequently, his HBO special “It’s Pimpin’ Pimpin'” in 2008 marked a shift towards more politically charged material. His 2008 comedy tour earned him accolades from Billboard.
After a hiatus, Katt returned to the stage with his HBO special “Kattpacalypse” in 2012, followed by the “Growth Spurt” tour in 2013. Directed by Spike Lee, his fourth HBO special, “Katt Williams: Priceless: Afterlife,” was released in tandem with his first Netflix special, “Great America,” in 2018. His 2022 Netflix release, “World War III,” continued his comedic legacy.
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Film and Television Career
Williams made his acting debut in 2002 on the American police procedural drama TV series “NYPD Blue.” He rose to prominence on the MTV improv series “Wild ‘n Out,” featuring in seasons 1 to 4 and also appearing in a music video for “Gigolo” by his fellow “Wild ‘n Out” castmate Nick Cannon in 2003. His television credits include recurring appearances as Bobby Shaw on the ABC sitcom “My Wife and Kids” and serving as the roastmaster for the Comedy Central Roast of Flavor Flav. In 2018, he clinched an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his role on “Atlanta.”
Williams transitioned to the big screen with his debut in the 2002 American Christmas stoner comedy “Friday After Next,” portraying Money Mike. He continued to land supporting roles in films such as “Ganked” (2005), “Norbit” (2007), “The Perfect Holiday” (2007), “Internet Dating” (2008), “Lonely Street” (2008), and “First Sunday” (2008). His filmography expanded with appearances in “Scary Movie 5” (2013), “Father Figures” (2017), “2 Minutes of Fame” (2020), “The House Next Door: Meet the Blacks 2” (2021), and “For the Love of Money” (2021).
Legal Issues and Incidents
Williams has a history of confrontational behavior at live performances, resulting in shows ending early. He also has been arrested several times. He was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport in November 2006 after a stolen gun was found in his briefcase, eventually pleading no contest to a misdemeanor count of carrying a concealed firearm. He was sentenced to three years’ probation. He was arrested for a second time in June 2011 in connection with an alleged assault on a tractor driver and a third time in November 2012 on charges of suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon after he allegedly beat a man with a bottle aboard his tour bus.
Personal Life
Williams briefly joined the Nation of Islam during his time in the San Francisco Bay Area. However, he now often wears a cross during his stand-up performances, symbolizing his adherence to Christianity. He is the proud father of 10 children, among them Micah Stephen Williams, who has gained recognition as an actor, notably for his role on the Disney Channel series “Good Luck Charlie.”
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