Curious about Redd Foxx net worth and the financial details surrounding this legendary comedian and actor?
Redd Foxx, best known for his role in Sanford and Son, has a complex financial legacy shaped by both successes and challenges.
From his high-paying TV roles to his financial struggles, including significant tax debt and bankruptcy, Foxx’s wealth and financial life have been as tumultuous as his career.
In this article, we dive deep into Redd Foxx’s wealth, salary, financial overview, and more.
Redd Foxx Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | John Elroy Sanford |
| Popular Name | Redd Foxx |
| Birth Date | December 9, 1922 |
| Age | 68 years (Died on October 11, 1991) |
| Birthplace | St. Louis, Missouri, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Education | N/A |
| Marital Status | Married four times |
| Spouse | Evelyn Killebrew, Betty Jean Harris, Joi Yun Chi Chung, Kaho Cho |
| Children | Debraca Denise |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Fred Jr. (Older brother) |
| Parents | Fred Sanford (father), Mary Hughes (mother) |
| Height | 1.73 m |
| Net Worth | -$3.5 million (at the time of death, owed taxes) |
| Source of Wealth | Comedy, Acting, TV Shows, Albums |
What is the Net Worth Of Redd Foxx in 2025?
At the time of his passing in 1991, Redd Foxx’s net worth was reported to be -$3.5 million, primarily due to his significant tax debt. His career, which included a top salary on Sanford and Son and numerous comedy albums, brought in substantial earnings. However, Foxx’s lavish lifestyle, multiple divorces, and financial mismanagement left him in debt by the time of his death.
In comparison, other comedic legends such as Richard Pryor and Chris Rock have maintained substantial wealth, with their earnings reflecting their continued influence in comedy. Foxx’s financial troubles contrast with these figures, highlighting the challenges some celebrities face when balancing fame with financial responsibility.
Some names related to Redd Foxx’s career, including close colleagues and fellow entertainers, are:
- Richard Pryor
- Chris Rock
- Demond Wilson
- Eddie Murphy
- Jamie Foxx
- Slappy White
- LaWanda Page
- Don Bexley
- Beah Richards
- Hollywood Entertainment Industry
For a broader look at celebrities and their financials, check out our richest celebrities page on Aupeo.
Redd Foxx Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
Financial Struggles and Debt
Redd Foxx’s life was marked by both extreme wealth and significant financial difficulties. Although he was once the highest-paid actor on television, Foxx faced financial challenges that led to his bankruptcy. In the 1980s, he filed for bankruptcy after accumulating substantial tax debt. The IRS filed multiple liens against his properties, seizing assets such as his Las Vegas home and cars. Despite his high earnings, Foxx’s failure to manage his finances led to debts that eventually overshadowed his wealth.
Foxx’s inability to secure stable financial planning is an unfortunate aspect of his legacy, as it contrasts with his fame. His story highlights the importance of financial responsibility, even for high-income celebrities.
Salary and Income from Sanford and Son
When Redd Foxx first starred in Sanford and Son, he earned $19,000 per episode, a substantial sum for the time. This salary, which translates to around $130,000 in today’s money, was enough to make Foxx one of the highest-paid actors of the early 1970s. However, Foxx’s salary dispute in the 1973-1974 season led to an increase in his earnings, with his pay rising to $25,000 per episode, along with a 25% cut of the show’s profits.
This deal helped solidify Foxx’s financial position at the time, and his compensation was reflective of his popularity on the show. His ability to negotiate a profit-sharing deal with producers was a rare move for a TV actor, further demonstrating his value and influence within the entertainment industry.
Wealth Beyond Sanford and Son
After his time on Sanford and Son, Foxx continued to earn through other ventures, primarily comedy albums and films. He had a successful career in the comedy record industry, releasing over 50 albums during his lifetime. These albums, known for their explicit and raunchy content, earned Foxx substantial royalties and further solidified his position as one of the most influential comedians of his time.
Foxx also appeared in several films, including Harlem Nights (1989), which helped supplement his income. While his acting roles in later years were less lucrative than his time on Sanford and Son, his continued presence in the entertainment industry contributed to his wealth.
Financial Legacy: Lessons Learned
Redd Foxx’s financial story is both inspiring and cautionary. Despite his immense success, his life was marked by financial mismanagement and poor decisions. His story is a reminder of the importance of financial planning, even for those with substantial incomes.
Foxx’s financial struggles, especially with taxes, demonstrate that wealth alone is not enough to guarantee financial stability. His story emphasizes the need for proper management, particularly for those in high-earning, fluctuating industries like entertainment.
Conclusion
Redd Foxx’s financial journey is one filled with highs and lows, offering valuable lessons on the importance of wealth management.
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