Roy Clark Net Worth

What was Roy Clark's Net Worth?

Roy Clark, an iconic American country musician, amassed a net worth of $10 million by the time he passed away in 2018. Famously, Clark co-hosted the television variety show 'Hee Haw' from 1969 to 1993 and often served as a guest host for Johnny Carson on 'The Tonight Show.' Renowned for his mastery of the guitar, banjo, and fiddle, Clark was a distinguished member of the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Starting his musical journey at age 14, he swiftly became a multiple National Banjo Champion. Notably, Clark signed with Capitol Records in 1963, moving on to Dot Records, ABC Records, and MCA Records. He founded the Roy Clark Celebrity Theater in Branson, Missouri, in 1983 and endorsed Gretsch, Mosrite, and Heritage Guitars. In 1982, Clark's exceptional skills earned him a Grammy Award for Best Country Instrumental Performance for 'Alabama Jubilee.' Unfortunately, Roy Clark passed away on November 15, 2018, at 85 years old.

Early Life

Roy Clark was born on April 15, 1933, in Meherrin, Virginia, as one of five children to Lillian and tobacco farmer Hester. During the Great Depression, the family relocated to New York City, and later to Washington, DC, where his father worked at the Washington Navy Yard. Influenced by his musical parents, Clark learned guitar at 14 and quickly mastered the banjo and mandolin. He went on to win the National Banjo Championship in both 1947 and 1948. Clark's comedic talent also blossomed as he used humor to overcome shyness and fit in with his peers.

Career Beginnings

Roy Clark began his career performing publicly with fellow guitarist Carl Lukat as a duet in the DC area, eventually debuting on WTTG television. At just 17, Clark performed at the Grand Ole Opry and toured the country, playing backup guitar at various venues. Following this period, he recorded singles for Coral Records and 4 Star Records and performed in local country music venues.

In 1954, Clark was invited by budding country star Jimmy Dean to join his band, the Texas Wildcats, becoming their lead guitarist. Clark subsequently appeared on Dean's 'Town and Country Time' radio show, moving to television thereafter. He competed on 'Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scouts,' coming in second place. In 1957, Clark faced a setback when he was fired by Dean but later appeared on George Hamilton IV's TV show in 1959.

Hee Haw

In 1969, Roy Clark began co-hosting the beloved TV variety show 'Hee Haw' alongside Buck Owens. Modeled after 'Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In,' the show combined country-themed comedy sketches and musical performances, often featuring scantily clad women. Clark was a key player in the Million Dollar Band and starred in numerous sketches. 'Hee Haw' aired on CBS until 1971 and was syndicated until 1993, achieving great success across various markets.

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Other Television Appearances

In addition to 'Hee Haw,' Clark hosted several other shows. He was a frequent guest host for Johnny Carson on 'The Tonight Show' during the 60s and 70s and co-hosted the daytime country variety series 'Swingin' Country.' As an actor, Clark made appearances on 'The Beverly Hillbillies' and 'The Odd Couple,' portraying the recurring character Roy Halsey and his mother Myrtle.

Music Career in the 60s and Beyond

In the early 60s, Roy Clark toured with rockabilly singer Wanda Jackson and contributed to many of her recordings. Through Jackson, he met agent Jim Halsey, who represented him throughout his career. Clark became a mainstay in Las Vegas, performing at the Golden Nugget casino. Signed by Capitol Records, he released his debut solo album, 'The Lightning Fingers of Roy Clark,' in 1962.

By the 70s, Clark was the highest-paid country music star, delivering hits like 'I Never Picked Cotton,' 'Thank God and Greyhound,' 'Come Live with Me,' 'Honeymoon Feelin',' and 'Heart to Heart.' He continued to release music into the 80s and 90s and opened his theater in Branson, Missouri. Clark was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2009.

Film Career

Clark ventured into film with roles such as Wild Bill Wildman in the 1978 comedy 'Matilda' and a starring role in the 1986 Western comedy 'Uphill All the Way.'

Personal Life and Death

In 1957, Clark married Barbara Rupard, with whom he had five children. The family resided in Tulsa, Oklahoma. A licensed pilot, Clark owned several planes, including a Stearman PT-17 and Mitsubishi MU-2. Tragically, Roy Clark passed away in November 2018 due to complications from pneumonia. He was 85.