What is Zach Braff's Net Worth and Salary?
Zach Braff, a talented actor, writer, producer, and director born in New Jersey, boasts a net worth of $20 million. He is best known for his portrayal of Dr. John "J.D." Dorian in the hit television series Scrubs, where his comedic genius earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. His performance led to multiple award nominations, including the prestigious Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe.
Beyond the small screen, Braff made a significant impact with his film debut, Garden State (2004). Not only did he star in the coming-of-age film, but he also wrote and directed it, capturing the complexities of young adulthood with a unique touch. The film's original soundtrack won a Grammy, solidifying Braff as a multifaceted artist in Hollywood.
He continued his exploration of family and identity with Wish I Was Here (2014), reflecting his personal growth and experiences. Braff's introspective directorial style has become a hallmark of his work.
In 2020, Zach teamed up with Scrubs co-star Donald Faison to launch the podcast Fake Doctors, Real Friends, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from the show.
Salary
During the peak of Scrubs, Zach Braff was among the highest-earning actors on television, commanding up to $350,000 per episode. This hefty paycheck translated to an annual salary of around $3.85 million for the show's seventh season. Additionally, directing seven episodes of Scrubs brought in extra income.
Career
Zach Braff's career began in the 1990s with a role in The Baby-sitters Club and his film debut in Manhattan Murder Mystery. Though the latter didn't achieve box office success, it was critically received well. He also performed on stage in New York City's Public Theater's production of Macbeth.
Braff's breakthrough came in 2001 with Scrubs, where his performance led to three Golden Globe nominations and an Emmy. He also directed seven episodes and was an executive producer in the show's ninth season.
Outside of Scrubs, Braff voiced the main character in Disney's animated film Chicken Little and other Disney video games. His other notable roles include The Last Kiss and The Ex, though both films underperformed critically and commercially. In 2010, he starred in the independent film The High Cost of Living.
Braff also worked on Broadway and off-Broadway productions, including writing the play All New People, which debuted in New York City, Manchester, and London. He starred in the Broadway musical Bullets over Broadway The Musical in 2014.
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In 2004, Braff's directorial debut, Garden State, became a surprise hit, earning over $35 million from a $2.5 million budget. Praised for its soundtrack, Braff personally compiled the music, winning a Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack.
He followed with Wish I Was Here in 2014, receiving mixed reviews and modest box office returns. Braff also directed music videos and served as an executive producer for several documentaries.
Business Ventures
In 2009, Braff opened Mermaid Oyster Bar and financed the Rio Theater in Monte Rio by donating funds for a new digital projector. In 2020, he reunited with Donald Faison to co-host the podcast Fake Doctors, Real Friends, offering a nostalgic look back at Scrubs.
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Relationships
Braff's high-profile relationships include dating Mandy Moore from 2004 to 2006 and model Taylor Bagley from 2009 to 2014. Currently, he is in a relationship with Florence Pugh, an actress known for 2016's Lady Macbeth. Their significant age difference has stirred media commentary.
Controversy
In a 2005 episode of Punk'd, Braff's Scrubs co-star Donald Faison prank painted his new Porsche. Braff's reaction, involving chasing and punching the pranksters, was edited out of the final episode.
Hobbies and Interests
A dedicated Democrat, Braff endorsed Barack Obama in 2012. He is known for criticizing Republican viewpoints.
In addition to his political engagement, Braff is an amateur pilot, earning his license in 2008 to fly a Cirrus SR20.
Real Estate
In 2003, Braff purchased a 2,173-square-foot apartment in Hollywood Hills for approximately $1 million. In 2007, he bought a $3.2 million apartment in New York City's Union Square building, where he divides his time between L.A. and NYC. His neighbor in the building is acclaimed actress Heather Graham. An incident in her apartment involving an unattended candle led to a fire, causing concern for Braff who lives directly below her.
