Ricky Gervais’ Net Worth and Salary: What Are They?
Ricky Gervais, an actor, comedian, writer, and filmmaker from Britain, boasts a net worth of $160 million. The majority of this wealth was amassed through his creation of the television series The Office. This series first premiered in the UK in 2001 as a limited-run show. In 2005, it was adapted into a successful American version, which aired for 201 episodes across nine seasons. The American The Office is renowned as one of the most profitable shows in syndication, generating billions in revenue from royalties and licensing. As a result, Gervais continues to earn tens of millions each time the show enters a new deal or is acquired by another platform. Additionally, Ricky profits from his comedy tours and Netflix stand-up specials, often receiving $20 million for a single special, with his 2023 “Armageddon” special grossing over $30 million.
Earnings from Syndication
During the original airing of The Office, Gervais and co-creator Stephen Merchant earned significant sums through their various producer and creator roles. However, Ricky’s major financial benefits came from profitable syndication and licensing agreements in the years following. He holds at least 10% of the equity points from The Office‘s syndication rights, entitling him to 10% of all profits generated by the show.
To date, it is estimated that Ricky Gervais has earned over $100 million in pre-tax income through syndication sales.
In June 2019, Comcast’s NBC acquired the rights to broadcast The Office for $500 million, starting in 2021. Before this, the show was aired on networks owned by Viacom, such as Comedy Central, and it had previously been a staple on Netflix.
Ricky Gervais’ Early Life
Born on June 25, 1961, in Reading, England, Ricky Dene Gervais is the youngest of four siblings, raised by a repatriated French-Canadian father. Following his time in secondary school, he pursued philosophy at University College London, where he earned his degree. During his university days, Gervais met Jane Fallon, with whom he has shared a relationship since 1982.
Ricky Gervais’ Early Career
After a failed bid to pursue a pop music career, Ricky Gervais transitioned into entertainment through radio. While serving as head of speech at XFM, he crossed paths with Stephen Merchant, who he later employed as an assistant. Together, they would go on to develop The Office. Gervais commenced his television career by writing sketches for the British comedy program The Sketch Show, later making appearances as a deliberately provocative host on The 11 O’Clock Show. He also featured in a comedy program titled Meet Ricky Gervais, though it did not achieve notable success.
Breakthrough with The Office
In 1999, while studying film production, Stephen Merchant produced a seven-minute short film that showcased the character David Brent, which would later become Ricky Gervais’ role in The Office. This short film captured the attention of senior BBC executives, prompting them to request a pilot script from Gervais and Merchant. Consequently, they created the pilot, leading to the BBC’s approval of the show.
At first, The Office struggled to gain traction. It was released in a brief run of six episodes but initially failed to attract many viewers. However, as word of mouth spread, DVD sales increased, revealing a growing demand for a second season. Joyfully for fans, the BBC greenlit the next season.
Regarded as comedic geniuses in 2003, Gervais and Merchant gained significant acclaim following the successful release of the second season. After The Office achieved success in Britain, it was adapted for American audiences with Gervais and Merchant serving as producers. Furthermore, The Office has been remade for various countries, including Brazil, Sweden, France, and others. Gervais later remarked that the critical acclaim for The Office facilitated his success in the American entertainment industry in the subsequent years.
After The Office
In the wake of The Office’s success, Ricky Gervais participated in numerous other TV shows. His first was Extras, which showcased famous celebrities humorously portraying themselves on fictional movie sets. In 2010, Gervais launched his own show, The Ricky Gervais Show. Additionally, he contributed to the creation of series such as Derek, Life’s Too Short, An Idiot Abroad, and After Life. An Idiot Abroad featured Ricky’s former radio producer, Karl Pilkington—referred to as the “idiot”—who was less than enthusiastic about traveling beyond England.
Stand-Up Comedy
Since the 1990s, Ricky Gervais has established himself as a successful stand-up comedian. His stand-up career flourished following the popularity of The Office, and he has toured widely over the years. More than once, his comedy specials have been streamed on Netflix.
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Film
Throughout his career, Ricky Gervais has taken on roles in various notable films. In 2005, he lent his voice to “Bugsy” in the animated feature Valiant. One of his most memorable performances was as a museum director in the 2006 film Night at the Museum, a role he returned to in its sequels. Over the following years, Gervais appeared in films including Ghost Town, The Invention of Lying, and Special Correspondents. Additionally, he provided voice work for the 2022 film Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank.
To date, Ricky has received seven BAFTA Awards, two Emmy Awards, a Screen Actors Guild award, and three Golden Globe Awards, having hosted the latter five times.
Netflix
In 2018, Netflix reportedly compensated Ricky $20 million for a stand-up special. This followed the network’s acquisition of his special “Humanity,” also said to have cost $20 million. Between June 2017 and June 2018, Ricky earned a total of $25 million from his various activities, ranking him among the five highest-paid comedians globally. He continues to release specials on the platform to this day.
Personal Life & Real Estate
Ricky Gervais, together with his partner Jane Fallon, has opted not to marry or have children. While he has supported multiple charitable causes, he is primarily known for his advocacy of animal rights. In 2015, reports surfaced indicating that Ricky planned to bequeath his entire fortune to charities focusing on animal rights. His commitment to this cause is unwavering.
Ricky Gervais stands against all types of hunting, poaching, and unlawful animal trade. Due to his numerous contributions and actions towards animal welfare, he has received various accolades and has garnered praise from organizations like PETA. Furthermore, Gervais identifies as a staunch atheist and advocates for same-sex marriage.
In 2006, the couple invested nearly $6.5 million in a residence located in London, which they put on the market in 2015 for $11.8 million.
They relocated in 2016 to a new house purchased for just under $16 million. Additionally, they possess a $3.75 million apartment in the Barbizon 63 building in Manhattan.