Is Michael Che’s SNL paycheck as impressive as his jokes? As one of the longest-running Weekend Update co-anchors, he has built a solid career in comedy. But Saturday Night Live isn’t his only source of income.
His Netflix specials, HBO Max series, and other projects contribute to his growing wealth.
In this article, Aupeo dives deep into Michael Che net worth, his salary at SNL, and the different income streams that make up his financial portfolio.
Michael Che Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Michael Che Campbell |
| Popular Name | Michael Che |
| Birth Date | May 19, 1983 |
| Age | 41 (as of March 2025) |
| Birthplace | Manhattan, New York City, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Spouse | N/A |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Six (four brothers, two sisters) |
| Parents | Rose Campbell, Nathaniel Campbell |
| Height | 1.87 m |
| Net Worth | $10 million (estimated) |
| Source of Wealth | Comedy, TV shows, writing, production |
What is the Net Worth Of Michael Che in 2025?
As of 2025, Michael Che’s estimated net worth stands at $10 million. His wealth primarily comes from his long-standing role at Saturday Night Live, where he has co-hosted Weekend Update since 2014. He also earns from his stand-up specials, executive production work, and HBO Max series.
Compared to other comedians, his net worth is moderate. While his SNL colleague Colin Jost has a similar financial standing, comedy legends like Chris Rock and Dave Chappelle are worth significantly more.
Related Celebrities & Figures
- Colin Jost
- Chris Rock
- Dave Chappelle
- Tommy Hilfiger
- Cecily Strong
- Lorne Michaels
- HBO Max
- Netflix
- Saturday Night Live
- The Daily Show
For more insights into Hollywood’s top-earning comedians, check out our full list of highly paid entertainers.
Michael Che Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Does He Earn from Saturday Night Live?
Michael Che earns $25,000 per episode as a main cast member and writer on SNL. Since the show airs about 21 episodes per season, this brings his annual salary to approximately $525,000.
In addition to his co-anchor role on Weekend Update, he was also an SNL head writer from 2017 to 2022, which likely boosted his earnings. However, compared to SNL veterans like Kenan Thompson, his salary remains on the lower side.
What Are His Other Sources of Income?
While SNL is his primary income source, Che also makes money from:
- Stand-up comedy tours – He performs across the U.S., adding to his earnings.
- Netflix specials – His two major specials, Michael Che Matters (2016) and Michael Che: Shame the Devil (2021), were popular on the streaming platform.
- HBO Max series – That Damn Michael Che (2021–2022) provided him additional income as a writer, producer, and star.
- Writing gigs – He has contributed to Detroiters and hosted the 70th Primetime Emmy Awards in 2018.
Though his earnings from these projects are not publicly disclosed, they significantly contribute to his financial growth.
How Has His Wealth Grown Over the Years?
Michael Che’s journey to financial success wasn’t easy.
- Early struggles – Before comedy, he worked at a Toyota dealership and sold celebrity portrait T-shirts in SoHo.
- Breakthrough at SNL – In 2013, he was hired as a writer and, within a year, became the first African-American co-anchor of Weekend Update.
- Expanding his career – His comedy specials and HBO Max show helped diversify his income streams.
This steady career growth has allowed him to accumulate a comfortable net worth.
How Does He Spend His Money?
Michael Che has been open about his humble background and gives back to the community.
- Philanthropy – In 2020, he paid one month’s rent for 160 public housing residents in honor of his late grandmother.
- Lifestyle – Unlike many celebrities, he keeps a low profile and doesn’t flaunt a lavish lifestyle.
- Investments – While there are no reports of major business ventures, his focus remains on entertainment.
How Does His Salary Compare to Other Comedians?
Che’s earnings are respectable but not at the top of the industry.
| Comedian | Estimated Net Worth | SNL Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Michael Che | $10 million | $525,000/year |
| Colin Jost | $10 million | $525,000/year |
| Kenan Thompson | $13 million | Higher |
| Chris Rock | $60 million | Former cast member |
| Dave Chappelle | $60+ million | N/A |
While he earns well, he doesn’t yet reach the financial heights of top stand-up comedians.
What Awards and Recognitions Has He Received?
Michael Che’s work has earned him numerous industry accolades:
- 5x Primetime Emmy nominations (SNL, 2017–2021)
- 2x Writers Guild of America Awards (SNL, 2017 & 2018)
- 3x Black Reel Awards nominations (That Damn Michael Che, 2021)
His impact on comedy, especially at SNL, has been recognized at the highest levels.
What Factors Could Impact His Future Earnings?
Michael Che’s financial future depends on:
- His role at SNL – Will he renew his contract or move on?
- New projects – Stand-up specials, new TV shows, or film appearances could boost his earnings.
- Comedy market trends – Streaming deals and live tour demand will play a role in his income growth.
Conclusion
Michael Che has built a solid career in comedy, with SNL as his main financial foundation.
His stand-up specials and writing projects continue to shape his earnings. As he expands his career, his net worth is likely to grow.
For more updates on celebrity finances, visit Aupeo and explore the latest insights!
