Craig Kilborn has made a name for himself as a comedian, sports commentator, and late-night television host. From hosting The Daily Show to leading The Late Late Show, his career has spanned decades.
But how has this success translated into his financial status? In this article, Aupeo dives into Craig Kilborn net worth, his salary, and how his career choices shaped his finances over the years.
Craig Kilborn Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Craig Lawrence Kilborn |
| Popular Name | Craig Kilborn |
| Birth Date | August 24, 1962 |
| Age | 62 (as of February 2025) |
| Birthplace | Kansas City, Missouri, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Education | Hastings High School, Montana State University |
| Marital Status | N/A |
| Spouse | N/A |
| Children | Jonathan Kilborn |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | Hiram Kilborn, Shirley Kilborn |
| Height (meters) | 1.96 meters |
| Net Worth | $7 million |
| Source of Wealth | Television, Hosting, Acting |
What is the Net Worth of Craig Kilborn in 2025?
As of 2025, Craig Kilborn net worth is estimated at $7 million. His financial journey includes earnings from television hosting, sports broadcasting, and acting.
Despite stepping away from mainstream TV, he has maintained his wealth through selective media appearances and projects.
Compared to other late-night hosts, Kilborn’s net worth is moderate. While David Letterman and Jon Stewart have amassed significantly higher fortunes, Kilborn’s career choices reflect a different path—one less focused on long-term late-night dominance.
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For a broader look at the financial success of public figures, check out this list of the wealthiest TV personalities.
Craig Kilborn Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Did He Build His Wealth Over the Years?
Craig Kilborn’s financial success stems from multiple career transitions. He started as a sports broadcaster, working for ESPN’s SportsCenter (1993-1996).
His unique commentary style helped redefine sports news and became a stepping stone for his late-night career.
He then became the first host of The Daily Show (1996-1998), where he introduced signature segments like 5 Questions and Your Moment of Zen. This role increased his industry presence, leading to a major network opportunity.
His most financially significant role came as the host of The Late Late Show (1999-2004). This position secured him a strong salary, allowing him to build his financial base. However, he left the show voluntarily in 2004, citing creative disinterest.
Aside from television, Kilborn has earned money through acting (Old School, The Benchwarmers), advertising (Kraft Mac & Cheese commercial), and podcasting (The Life Gorgeous).
What Was His Salary as a Television Host?
While exact salary figures are not publicly available, Kilborn earned a substantial income from his time on Comedy Central and CBS.
Industry estimates suggest that late-night hosts during his era earned several million dollars annually.
His earnings from The Daily Show helped establish his reputation, but his most lucrative role was likely hosting The Late Late Show.
His departure from the show may have impacted his financial trajectory, as he left before contract renegotiations that could have increased his salary.
How Did His Career Choices Affect His Financial Growth?
Kilborn’s financial journey is shaped by bold career decisions. While other hosts capitalized on long-term contracts, Kilborn chose to leave opportunities early:
- Leaving The Daily Show – While the show gained massive success under Jon Stewart, Kilborn moved on before it reached its peak.
- Exiting The Late Late Show – Opting out of CBS’s renewal offer, he missed out on potential multi-million-dollar contract extensions.
- Launching The Kilborn File (2010) – This short-lived project did not provide the financial returns he expected.
Despite these choices, Kilborn remains financially stable due to his past earnings and selective industry involvement.
What Are His Financial Ventures Beyond Television?
Unlike some of his late-night counterparts, Kilborn has not heavily invested in business ventures. However, he has leveraged his reputation for brand endorsements and commercial appearances.
His advertising deal with Kraft Mac & Cheese (2016) is one example. While not a significant revenue stream, such deals add to his overall financial portfolio.
How Does His Wealth Compare to Other TV Hosts?
Kilborn’s estimated $7 million net worth places him below industry giants like:
- David Letterman (~$400 million)
- Jon Stewart (~$120 million)
- Craig Ferguson (~$30 million)
His earnings were limited by his decision to step away from major late-night TV, while others capitalized on long-term contracts and syndication deals. His financial standing also reflects his career focus on creative independence over financial gain.
What is His Financial Status Today?
Kilborn continues to maintain financial stability through select media projects. His latest endeavor, The Life Gorgeous Podcast, suggests he is exploring digital revenue models rather than traditional TV contracts.
While his mainstream television career has slowed, his financial standing remains secure. His wealth is built on past success, with no indications of financial struggle.
Conclusion
Craig Kilborn has had a unique career path, making decisions that shaped both his net worth and industry legacy. While he didn’t pursue long-term late-night dominance, his financial standing remains stable.
Interested in more celebrity financial insights? Visit aupeo.com for in-depth net worth analysis and industry updates!
