Kathy Reichs is a name that stands out in the worlds of crime fiction and forensic science.
Best known for creating Temperance Brennan, the character that inspired the hit TV series Bones, she has built an impressive career spanning writing, television production, and forensic anthropology. But how does she make money?
In this article, Aupeo breaks down Kathy Reichs net worth, how she earns from books, TV, and forensic consulting, and what financial factors have shaped her career.
Kathy Reichs Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Kathy Reichs |
| Popular Name | Kathy Reichs |
| Birth Date | July 7, 1948 |
| Age | 76 years old (2024) |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | American University (BA); Northwestern University (MA, PhD) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Paul Reichs (m. 1968) |
| Children | 3 |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | N/A |
| Height (meters) | N/A |
| Net Worth | $10 million (estimated) |
| Source of Wealth | Books, TV royalties, Forensic Anthropology |
What is the Net Worth of Kathy Reichs in 2025?
As of 2025, Kathy Reichs’ net worth is estimated at $10 million. Her wealth comes from multiple income streams, including book royalties, television production, and forensic consulting.
Compared to other crime fiction writers, her earnings are solid but not among the highest.
Many authors in the forensic crime genre have leveraged their expertise into TV deals, much like Reichs did with Bones.
However, writers like James Patterson or Patricia Cornwell have amassed significantly larger fortunes due to extensive book sales and media adaptations.
Related Figures in Kathy Reichs’ Industry
- James Patterson
- Patricia Cornwell
- Jeffery Deaver
- Tess Gerritsen
- Michael Connelly
- Fox Broadcasting Company
- American Academy of Forensic Sciences
- Emily Deschanel
- David Boreanaz
- Northwestern University
For more on other successful authors and TV personalities, check out this list of the wealthiest figures in entertainment.
Kathy Reichs Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Does She Make Money?
Kathy Reichs’ career spans multiple fields, making her income diverse. Her earnings come from:
- Book sales, particularly from the Temperance Brennan series
- TV royalties, as Bones was based on her work
- Forensic consulting, given her background as a forensic anthropologist
- University teaching and speaking engagements
Her ability to balance both fiction and forensic science has made her one of the few crime writers with hands-on expertise in the field.
How Much Does She Earn from Book Sales?
Reichs’ primary source of income is her books. She has written over 20 novels in the Temperance Brennan series, along with the Virals young adult series.
- Déjà Dead won the Arthur Ellis Award and cemented her career as a bestselling author.
- Her books are translated into 30 languages, significantly expanding her market reach.
- With consistent releases, she continues to earn substantial royalties from both print and digital sales.
How Much Does She Earn from the Bones TV Series?
The Bones TV series was a massive success, running for 12 seasons on Fox.
- Reichs was a producer, meaning she earned both a salary and backend royalties.
- The show’s syndication continues to bring in revenue.
- She even wrote several episodes, ensuring additional earnings.
Though Bones has ended, it remains one of the most successful forensic crime dramas, keeping Reichs financially relevant through continued licensing deals.
How Does She Earn from Forensic Anthropology?
Beyond writing, Reichs has built her career on real forensic science.
- She is certified by the American Board of Forensic Anthropology.
- She testified in major cases, including the Casey Anthony trial.
- Consulting forensic work provides additional income, though it’s not her primary revenue stream.
What Are Her Major Financial Achievements?
Kathy Reichs has achieved financial success in multiple areas:
- Winning the Arthur Ellis Award boosted her book sales.
- Creating a TV franchise based on her work secured long-term earnings.
- Working with major forensic institutions strengthened her credibility and consulting fees.
Her ability to merge forensic expertise with mainstream storytelling makes her unique in both crime fiction and forensic science circles.
How Has Her Wealth Grown Over Time?
Reichs’ financial journey has been steady:
- 1997 – Published Déjà Dead, which became a bestseller.
- 2005 – Bones TV show launched, increasing her income.
- 2011 – Served as an expert witness in a high-profile trial, boosting her credibility.
- 2017-present – Continued releasing books and benefiting from TV syndication deals.
Unlike some authors who fade over time, Reichs’ steady publishing schedule and TV deals keep her financially stable.
What Are the Key Factors Behind Her Financial Success?
- Diversified income streams (books, TV, forensic work)
- Global recognition (30+ language translations)
- Long-term intellectual property value (Bones continues to generate revenue)
- Forensic credibility, which sets her apart from other crime fiction writers
Conclusion
Kathy Reichs has successfully blended forensic science with crime fiction, turning her expertise into a lucrative career.
Her books, TV work, and forensic consulting have all contributed to her wealth. Want to explore more celebrity finances? Check out Aupeo.com for in-depth breakdowns of your favorite personalities.
