Jim Varney Net Worth
Table of Contents
Jim Varney Net Worth and Career
Table of Contents
Net Worth
Jim Varney, the talented American comedian, actor, musician, and voice artist, had an estimated net worth of $12 million at the time of his death in 2000.
Highlights
- Net Worth: $12 million
- Profession: Comedian, Actor, Musician, Voice Artist
- Nationality: American
- Birthdate: June 15, 1949
- Birthplace: Lexington, Kentucky
- Gender: Male
- Height: Unavailable
Early Life
Jim Varney was born on June 15, 1949, in Lexington, Kentucky. From a young age, Varney showcased his talent for memorization and performance. He developed a knack for imitating characters from cartoons, which his mother often showed him. Recognizing his potential, Varney’s mother enrolled him in a children’s theater when he was just eight years old.
During his time at Lafayette High School, Varney actively participated in stage productions and won multiple state titles in drama competitions. At the age of 17, he began performing professionally at coffee houses and nightclubs. To further hone his skills, Varney studied Shakespeare at the Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Virginia. Later on, he performed at the Pioneer Playhouse in Danville, Kentucky, where he appeared in various productions, such as “Blithe Spirit” and “Boeing 707.”
Career
Jim Varney embarked on his screen-acting career in the late 1970s. He gained visibility as a regular on “Johnny Cash and Friends” and a recurring role on the late-night talk show parody “Fernwood 2 Night” in 1977. Varney also starred in the television series adaptation of the film “Operation Petticoat.” Throughout his career, he made appearances on shows like “Alice” and “Pink Lady,” showcasing his versatility by playing a wide range of characters.
Breakthrough as Ernest
Varney’s breakthrough came in 1980 when he introduced his most iconic character, Ernest P. Worrell. Initially featured in a commercial for Beech Bend Park in Kentucky, Ernest became a nationwide sensation. With his catchphrase, “KnoWhutIMean, Vern?,” Varney’s portrayal of Ernest gained viral popularity, leading to numerous commercials for milk products, natural gas utilities, and more.
Ernest’s success extended beyond commercials, as Varney took the character to films and television programs. He starred in the film “Ernest Goes to Camp” in 1987, which became a box-office hit. Subsequently, he portrayed Ernest in films like “Ernest Saves Christmas,” “Ernest Goes to Jail,” and “Ernest Scared Stupid.” In 1988, Varney also received a Daytime Emmy Award for his performance on the children’s television series “Hey Vern, It’s Ernest!”
Varney’s talent wasn’t limited to his portrayal of Ernest. He also played the character of Sgt. Glory in various commercials and had notable film roles in “The Beverly Hillbillies” and the animated hit “Toy Story,” where he voiced the beloved character Slinky Dog.
Personal Life
In 1977, Jim Varney married Jacqueline Drew, but the couple divorced in 1983. He later married Jane, but their marriage ended in divorce in 1991.
Tragically, Varney developed lung cancer, which was potentially linked to his heavy smoking habit. Despite his diagnosis, he continued to perform and even quit smoking to improve his condition. Unfortunately, his chemotherapy treatments were not successful, and he passed away on February 10, 2000, at his home in White House, Tennessee, at the age of 50. Varney is laid to rest at the Lexington Cemetery in his hometown of Lexington, Kentucky.
Net Worth Over Time
Throughout his career, Jim Varney’s net worth fluctuated due to various factors such as his success in films, television appearances, and commercial endorsements. At the time of his death, he had amassed a net worth of approximately $12 million.
Components of Net Worth
Jim Varney’s net worth primarily consisted of income from his acting career, including film and television appearances, commercial endorsements, voice acting projects, and live performances. Additionally, he earned royalties from the successful “Ernest” franchise, which included films, television shows, and commercial campaigns.
Varney’s net worth also took into account his investments, properties, and other assets. As a successful entertainer, he had the opportunity to capitalize on his fame and financial success during his lifetime.
While specific details about the breakdown of his net worth are not publicly available, it is clear that Varney’s talent and entrepreneurial endeavors contributed significantly to his overall financial success.
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