Ralphie May was a standout figure in the comedy world, known for his unique humor and larger-than-life personality. His career spanned years of hard work and perseverance, but what exactly is Ralphie May’s net worth?
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into his financial achievements, how he made his fortune, and what his wealth looked like at the time of his death in 2017.
From his early breakthroughs to the height of his career, we’ll explore how he achieved success and what it means for his legacy in 2025.
Ralphie May Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Ralph Duren May |
| Popular Name | Ralphie May |
| Birth Date | February 17, 1972 |
| Age | Died on October 6, 2017 (aged 45) |
| Birthplace | Chattanooga, Tennessee, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | High School for the Performing and Visual Arts |
| Marital Status | Previously married |
| Spouse | Lahna Turner (2005–2015, not finalized) |
| Children | April June May |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Three older siblings |
| Parents | Sue Ann Sykes May, Charles Winston May |
| Height | 1.75 m |
| Net Worth | $2 million |
| Source of Wealth | Stand-up comedy, TV specials, tours, streaming deals |
What is the Net Worth Of Ralphie May in 2025?
Ralphie May’s net worth at the time of his passing was estimated at $2 million. Since then, his comedy specials, including Girth of a Nation, Prime Cut, and Unruly, have continued to contribute to his lasting legacy. His wealth was primarily generated through his stand-up comedy career, television appearances, and various comedy specials aired on Comedy Central. Despite his untimely death in 2017, Ralphie May’s influence on the comedy scene remains significant, and his wealth continues to be a point of discussion among fans and those interested in the finances of entertainers.
Comparing Ralphie May to Similar Figures:
When compared to other comedians, Ralphie May’s wealth remains relatively modest. For example, Kevin Hart and Dave Chappelle, both household names in comedy, have considerably higher net worths. However, Ralphie May’s unique style and contributions to stand-up comedy have cemented his place in the industry.
Famous Comedians and Celebrities Related to Ralphie May:
- Sam Kinison
- Lahna Turner
- Dat Phan
- Mo’Nique
- Vince Morris
For a broader look at the wealth of popular entertainers, check out our article on the richest celebrities.
Ralphie May Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Did He Become Successful in Comedy?
Ralphie May’s rise to fame was the result of sheer talent and persistence. At just 17 years old, he caught the attention of legendary comedian Sam Kinison, who invited him to open for his shows. This moment proved to be a game-changer for May, pushing him toward greater success. After relocating to Houston to hone his craft, May’s comedy career took off when he became a finalist on the first season of Last Comic Standing in 2003. Despite losing the competition, May’s exposure led to major television appearances, including on The Tonight Show and The Wayne Brady Show.
His first major comedy album, Just Correct, was released in 2005, followed by several others throughout the years. These albums, coupled with his high-profile comedy specials, helped build his financial foundation and solidify his status in the industry.
What Are His Career Achievements and Comedy Specials?
Ralphie May recorded seven major comedy specials during his career. These specials, which aired on Comedy Central, include:
- Girth of a Nation (2006)
- Prime Cut (2007)
- Austin-tatious (2008)
- Too Big to Ignore (2012)
- Imperfectly Yours (2013)
- Unruly (2015)
Additionally, May ventured into the film industry, appearing in For Da Love of Money, and performed at events such as the Gathering of the Juggalos. These appearances contributed not only to his fame but also his wealth, as the success of these projects brought in steady revenue.
How Did He Manage His Personal Life and Struggles?
Throughout his life, Ralphie May faced numerous personal struggles, most notably with obesity. He even appeared on VH1’s Celebrity Fit Club in 2004 to try and lose weight, eventually undergoing gastric bypass surgery. However, his weight remained a constant battle. May was open about his health challenges, including his near-death experience in 2011 when he was diagnosed with viral pneumonia and suffered a pulmonary embolism. Despite these struggles, May continued to perform and tour, maintaining a busy schedule up until his untimely death in 2017.
May’s personal life also saw ups and downs, with his marriage to fellow comedian Lahna Turner ending in 2015 after nearly a decade. They had two children together and remained focused on co-parenting after their divorce.
What Was His Legacy After His Death?
Ralphie May’s death in 2017 left a lasting mark on the comedy world. Even after passing away, his comedy specials, such as Ralphie May Presents (2018) and What’s Eating Ralphie May (2019), were released posthumously, allowing fans to continue enjoying his unique humor. His memoir, This Might Get a Little Heavy, was also published after his death, offering insight into his personal struggles and triumphs.
Despite the loss, Ralphie May’s contributions to the comedy industry continue to be celebrated, and his influence on aspiring comedians remains strong. His ability to tackle tough topics with humor made him a beloved figure among comedy fans and fellow comedians alike.
Conclusion
Ralphie May’s legacy lives on through his work, despite his early passing.
His contributions to comedy and the entertainment industry were significant, and his financial journey reflects a career built on passion, perseverance, and undeniable talent.
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