What Is Scott Adams' Net Worth?
Scott Adams is an American comic author who has amassed a net worth of $20 million. He earned his fortune as the creator of the widely successful comic strip 'Dilbert.' Since its inception in 1989, 'Dilbert' has become a global phenomenon, featured in over 2,000 newspapers across 60 countries and 19 languages.
Adams was also the executive producer of the 'Dilbert' television show that aired on UPN from 1998 to 2000. Beyond 'Dilbert,' he has authored several nonfiction works, such as 'The Religion War,' and founded a vegetarian food company called Scott Adams Food, Inc. Known for his outspoken views on social media, Adams gained further notoriety. Notably, in a 2015 blog post, he predicted that Donald Trump would be elected President.
Early Life
Born on June 8, 1957, in Windham, New York, Scott Adams is the son of Paul and Virginia Adams and is of half-German descent. He began drawing comics at age six, inspired by 'Peanuts.' At age 11, he won his first drawing competition.
Adams was valedictorian at Windham-Ashland-Jewett Central School in 1975. He pursued a traditional career, receiving a bachelor's degree in economics from Hartwick College in 1979 and an MBA from U.C. Berkeley in 1986.
Early Career and Dilbert Success
Adams worked for various companies, including Pacific Bell, where he drew inspiration for 'Dilbert' characters from his coworkers. He diligently woke up early each day to work on his cartoons before his day job. Despite numerous rejections from publications like 'Playboy' and 'The New Yorker,' he persisted.
In 1989, Adams launched 'Dilbert' with United Media. By 1991, 'Dilbert' appeared in 100 newspapers, growing to 400 newspapers by 1994. The comic’s popularity soared further, allowing Adams to become a full-time cartoonist by 1996. 'Dilbert' was in 800 newspapers by then, earning Adams multiple awards and accolades, including the prestigious Reuben Award in 1997. The 'Dilbert' TV series aired from 1998 to 2000, and the comic expanded to 2,000 newspapers globally by 2000.
Other Ventures
Adams is also the CEO of Scott Adams Food, Inc., specializing in vegetarian products such as the Dilberito. He ventured into acting with appearances in season 4 of 'Babylon 5' and cameos on 'NewsRadio.' He has appeared on several talk shows and podcasts, including 'Real Time with Bill Maher,' 'Making Sense with Sam Harris,' and 'The Joe Rogan Experience.'
In 2015, Adams predicted Donald Trump's presidential victory based on his persuasion skills, leading to the growth of his blog and then his daily vlog 'Coffee with Scott Adams,' which amassed over 27 million views on YouTube. In 2020, President Trump retweeted Adams' show multiple times, cementing his media presence.
Controversies
Adams has been no stranger to controversy. He admitted to defending himself online under a pseudonym and has made several bold predictions. In March 2020, he predicted that Donald Trump, Bernie Sanders, and Joe Biden would all contract COVID-19, with one of them dying by year's end—a prediction named by Politico as one of the most 'audacious and incorrect' of the year. Adams also made controversial comments about Republicans being 'hunted' if Biden won the 2020 election.
February 2023 Incident
In late February 2023, Adams faced backlash for comments considered racist on his YouTube show. This led to 'Dilbert' being dropped by many prominent publications, and his distributor severing ties with him.
Personal Life
Adams suffers from focal dystonia, affecting his drawing ability. He uses a graphics tablet due to this condition. Adams underwent surgery in 2008 for his vocal cords, having spasmodic dysphonia.
In July 2006, Adams married Shelly Miles aboard a yacht in San Francisco. Adams adopted Miles' two children, Savannah and Justin. Tragically, Justin died of a fentanyl overdose in 2018. Adams and Miles divorced in 2014 but remain friends. On Christmas Day 2019, Adams announced his engagement to model Kristina Basham. They married on July 11, 2020. Basham also has two children from a previous relationship.
Real Estate
Adams lived in San Francisco and nearby Marin County during his career's peak. In 2009, he moved to Danville, California, constructing a 7,000-square-foot mansion with an indoor basketball court, a resort-style pool, and a Dilbert-shaped wall.
