Mark Burnett Net Worth

What is Mark Burnett's Net Worth and Salary?

Mark Burnett, a British television producer, has a net worth of $500 million. His career skyrocketed with the launch of "Survivor" in 2000, revolutionizing the reality TV genre. He continued this success with "The Apprentice" featuring Donald Trump, and went on to develop other hits like "The Voice", "Shark Tank", and "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?"

Burnett's series have amassed more than 140 Emmy nominations and won him twelve Emmys among other accolades. His ventures extend to miniseries and films, including "The Bible" and "Son of God". From selling T-shirts on Venice Beach to founding a production company acquired by MGM, Burnett's journey in entertainment is awe-inspiring. He served as Chairman of MGM Television and Digital Group from 2015 to 2022.

Early Life

James Mark Burnett was born on July 17, 1960, in London, England. Raised in Essex by factory worker parents, Burnett enlisted in the British Army at 17. He became a section commander in the Parachute Regiment, serving in the Falkland War and Northern Ireland before leaving the army in 1982 as a decorated soldier. His experiences ignited a taste for adventure, leading him to take a military adviser job in Central America. However, he ultimately stayed in Los Angeles with just $600 after heeding his mother's cautious advice.

Career

After emigrating to the United States in 1982, Burnett worked as a nanny for a Beverly Hills family, leveraging his military background to secure the job. His stable income led him to work for another family in Malibu, earning $250 weekly. Burnett's curiosity for the entertainment industry grew as one of his employers introduced him to influential producers. He later ventured into selling insurance and founded his own marketing and advertising firm, making his first million by the early 90s. Yet, he yearned for adventure.

Eco-Challenge

Burnett discovered adventure with Raid Gauloises, a French competition featuring grueling activities. Inspired, he created "Eco-Challenge", premiering in Utah and aired on MTV, Discovery Channel, and USA Network. The show's success marked Burnett's entry as a TV producer in the 90s.

Survivor

Observing team dynamics in "Eco-Challenge", Burnett envisioned "Survivor". Buying the rights from Charlie Parsons in 1998, he faced multiple rejections before CBS aired it in the summer of 2000. "Survivor" became a nationwide sensation, with the finale watched by over 50 million people. It remains one of television's most enduring series.

The Apprentice and Other Shows

In 2004, Burnett launched "The Apprentice", featuring Donald Trump and showcasing contestants vying for a job with Trump through various challenges. It became so successful that it inspired numerous international spin-offs and "Celebrity Apprentice". Burnett also produced shows like "Shark Tank", "The Voice", and "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?", along with award shows such as the MTV Movie Awards and the Emmys.

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Burnett has also produced a wide range of shows like "Bully Beatdown", "The Contender", and "Sarah Palin's Alaska". In 2014, MGM acquired a 55% stake in One Three Media and United Artists Media Group, resulting in significant earnings for Burnett and his wife. Burnett became MGM President, overseeing both scripted and unscripted shows like "Fargo" and "The Handmaid's Tale". In 2018, he was named Chairman of MGM Worldwide.

Relationships

Burnett married his first wife, Dianne J. Burnett, in 1992, and they had two children before separating in 2002. In 2004, he began dating Roma Downey, a Northern Irish producer and actress. They married in 2007.

Real Estate

In 2004, Burnett purchased an oceanfront Malibu home for $4.5 million. The following year, he bought a second property in Malibu for $25 million. His wife, Roma Downey, rented her Malibu home for significant monthly amounts due to its exclusive location and amenities. They continue to rent out these properties during peak seasons.

Malibu Mansion

Mark and Roma's primary Malibu mansion, bought for $25 million in 2005, spans 7,300 square feet with seven bedrooms and 8.5 bathrooms. The bluff-top estate encompasses over three acres. In July 2024, they listed the property for rental at $350,000 per month.