What was Don Cornelius' Net Worth?
Don Cornelius, the renowned American television show host and producer, had a substantial net worth of $10 million at the time of his passing in 2012. At 75, Cornelius tragically took his own life on February 1, 2012. Best known as the creator, owner, and host of the iconic dance/music television show "Soul Train," he revolutionized the genre and culture of music television. In 2008, he sold the rights to Soul Train to investors, who later sold it to BET in 2016.
Early Life
Born on September 27, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois, Don Cornelius grew up in the Bronzeville neighborhood on the South Side. He graduated from DuSable High School in 1954 and served 18 months in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. After his military service, Cornelius worked in various jobs such as selling tires, cars, and insurance and later became an officer with the Chicago Police Department. However, seeking more fulfillment, he left the police force in 1966 to pursue a broadcasting career, a decision that quickly paid off as he took a job as an announcer, news reporter, and disc jockey on the Chicago radio station WVON.
Soul Train
In 1967, Cornelius joined Chicago's WCIU-TV and hosted a news program titled "A Black's View of the News." Inspired by the civil rights movement and influenced by the lack of television programs dedicated to soul music, he launched "Soul Train" in 1970. The program's debut showcased extraordinary talents like Eddie Kendricks, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Bobby Hutton, and Honey Cone.
Achieving near-immediate success, "Soul Train" entered national syndication in 1971 and moved to Los Angeles. Cornelius was pivotal to the show's success, handling tasks as writer, producer, and host. He became famous for his smooth voice, signature afro, and memorable catchphrases, particularly his iconic sign-off: "and you can bet your last money, it's all gonna be a stone gas, honey! I'm Don Cornelius, and as always, in parting, we wish you love, peace, and soul!”
Throughout its run from 1971 to 1993, "Soul Train" featured many legendary artists, including James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, and Michael Jackson. The show played a substantial role in amplifying Black American culture, music, and dance, introducing it to a wide and diverse audience.
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Later Years
Don Cornelius left "Soul Train" in 1993, but the show continued until 2006. He sold the show to MadVision Entertainment in 2008. Outside of "Soul Train," Cornelius made appearances in a few films, including the 1988 movie "Tapeheads" and the 1987 film "The Return of Bruno," where he portrayed a character reminiscent of himself. His final onscreen appearance was in an episode of "Unsung" in 2012.
Personal Life
Don Cornelius was first married to Delores Harrison, with whom he had two sons, Anthony and Raymond. The marriage ended in divorce. In 2001, he married Russian supermodel Victoria Avila; their marriage lasted until 2009. Cornelius's second marriage was marred by allegations of domestic violence, leading to his arrest in 2008 and subsequent legal battles. Following their divorce, Victoria acquired significant assets, including a mansion and life insurance policies worth $300,000.
Death
On February 1, 2012, Don Cornelius died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. An autopsy revealed he had suffered from seizures in the last 15 years of his life due to a 1982 brain operation. These health struggles significantly affected his quality of life and contributed to his decision to retire from "Soul Train."
Real Estate
During his later years, Cornelius resided in a picturesque mountaintop mansion spanning 4,000 square feet, which was sold for $1.39 million a year after his death. During his marriage to Victoria Avila, the couple owned another mansion in Los Angeles, which Victoria received as part of their divorce settlement. Additionally, she benefited from $300,000 worth of life insurance policies from Cornelius.
