Drew Carey is an American comedian, actor, and game show host, widely recognized for his multifaceted career in the entertainment industry. Born on May 23, 1958, in Cleveland, Ohio, Carey has made a significant impact through his work in stand-up comedy, television, and game shows. His journey from a young comedian to a celebrated television personality is marked by various milestones and achievements.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Drew Carey grew up in Cleveland and after completing high school, he attended Kent State University, though he did not graduate. His early career was far from the entertainment industry; he served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, which provided him with a unique perspective and discipline that he would later attribute to his success in life and comedy.
Carey's foray into comedy began in the late 1980s when he started performing stand-up comedy in Cleveland and Los Angeles clubs. His big break came in 1988 when he appeared on "Star Search," and shortly thereafter, his performance on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" in 1991 catapulted him into the national spotlight. Carson's endorsement was pivotal, leading to numerous appearances on late-night shows and comedy specials.
Television Success
Drew Carey's television career took off with the success of "The Drew Carey Show," which aired from 1995 to 2004. He starred as a fictionalized version of himself, a middle-class bachelor with a mundane job at a department store in Cleveland. The show was praised for its humor, relatability, and strong ensemble cast, becoming a staple of '90s television.
In addition to his sitcom, Carey also created and produced the improv comedy show "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" which aired from 1998 to 2007. The show, an adaptation of the British program of the same name, showcased Carey's quick wit and ability to engage with both the audience and performers, further cementing his status as a versatile entertainer.
Game Show Hosting
In 2007, Drew Carey took over as the host of the iconic game show "The Price Is Right," succeeding long-time host Bob Barker. Carey's warmth, humor, and genuine enthusiasm have been credited with maintaining the show's popularity, attracting a new generation of viewers while honoring the show's legacy. His tenure on "The Price Is Right" has become one of the most notable aspects of his career, showcasing his skills as a host and entertainer.
Net Worth
As of my last update in April 2023, Drew Carey's net worth is estimated to be around $165 million. This impressive figure is the result of his successful career in television, both in front of and behind the camera, as well as his roles as a game show host and stand-up comedian. Carey's diverse career in the entertainment industry, coupled with smart financial management and investments, has contributed to his substantial net worth.
Philanthropy and Personal Life
Beyond his entertainment career, Drew Carey is known for his philanthropic efforts and advocacy, particularly in areas related to education and veteran services. He has been open about his personal struggles, including battles with depression and weight, using his platform to raise awareness and support for related causes.
Conclusion
Drew Carey's journey from a stand-up comedian to a beloved television personality and game show host illustrates his versatility, work ethic, and ability to connect with audiences. His significant net worth reflects not only his success in the entertainment industry but also his enduring appeal and smart career choices. Carey continues to be a prominent figure on television, cherished by fans for his humor, relatability, and dedication to his craft.
Drew Carey's role as the host of "The Price Is Right," his multifaceted career, personal health journey, and private life have been subjects of public interest. Here's an extensive exploration of these frequently asked questions.
How much does Drew Carey get paid to do The Price Is Right?
Drew Carey's compensation for hosting "The Price Is Right" has been a topic of curiosity. While exact figures may vary and are not publicly disclosed in detail, reports and estimates suggest that Carey's salary for hosting the show is in the range of $9 million to $12 million per year. This figure reflects not only his role as the host but also his impact on maintaining the show's enduring popularity and appeal. Since taking over hosting duties in 2007, Carey has become synonymous with the daytime game show, bringing his unique charm and humor to the program.
What did Drew Carey do?
Drew Carey's career spans stand-up comedy, acting, game show hosting, and writing. His career highlights include:
Stand-Up Comedy: Carey's entertainment career began in stand-up comedy, where he developed his signature style and gained significant attention after appearing on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson."
The Drew Carey Show: Carey created and starred in this sitcom, which aired from 1995 to 2004. The show was set in Cleveland, Ohio, and Carey played a fictionalized version of himself, drawing on his everyman appeal and comedic talents.
Whose Line Is It Anyway?: Carey hosted the American version of this improvisational comedy show from 1998 to 2007, showcasing his quick wit and ability to interact with both the performers and the audience.
The Price Is Right: Since 2007, Carey has hosted this iconic game show, bringing new energy to the program while honoring its long-standing traditions.
Throughout his career, Carey has also been involved in various other projects, including writing an autobiography, engaging in professional wrestling appearances, and advocacy work, particularly related to libertarian political views and veterans' issues.
How did Drew Carey lose weight?
Drew Carey's significant weight loss was widely noticed in 2010 when he revealed he had lost nearly 100 pounds. Carey attributed his weight loss to a combination of factors:
Diet: He adopted a strict diet, eliminating most carbohydrates and opting for a high-protein, low-carb diet. He emphasized the importance of portion control and making healthier food choices.
Exercise: Carey incorporated regular exercise into his routine, including cardio workouts and strength training. He mentioned running as a significant component of his weight loss journey.
Lifestyle Changes: Beyond diet and exercise, Carey spoke about making broader lifestyle changes aimed at improving his overall health and well-being. This included quitting drinking and adopting a more active lifestyle.
Carey's motivation for losing weight was rooted in health concerns, including a desire to manage his diabetes without medication and improve his overall quality of life.
Does Drew Carey have a wife and children?
As of the latest information available up to April 2023, Drew Carey has never been married and does not have any children. Carey has been engaged in the past, most notably to Nicole Jaracz in 2007, though they never married, and the engagement was called off in 2012. He was also engaged to Dr. Amie Harwick, a therapist, but the couple ended their engagement in 2018. Tragically, Harwick was murdered in February 2020, an event that deeply affected Carey and led to him advocating for domestic violence prevention.
Despite not having a wife or children, Carey has often spoken about his close relationships with his family and his former fiancée's son, whom he has referred to affectionately and considered a significant part of his life during their relationship. Carey's personal life, much like his professional career, has been marked by its highs and lows, which he has navigated with openness and resilience.
