Sam Kinison’s net worth at the time of his passing in 1992 was estimated at $800,000.
But how does that compare to today’s entertainment industry? Aupeo explores his financial journey, earnings, and wealth accumulation.
Sam Kinison Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Samuel Burl Kinison |
| Popular Name | Sam Kinison |
| Birth Date | December 8, 1953 |
| Age | Died at 38 (April 10, 1992) |
| Birthplace | Yakima, Washington, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Education | East Peoria Community High School, Pinecrest Bible Training Center |
| Marital Status | Married (at time of death) |
| Spouse | Malika Kinison (m. 1992–1992), Terry Marze (m. 1981–1989), Patricia Adkins (m. 1975–1980) |
| Children | One daughter (unconfirmed publicly) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Richard Kinison, Bill Kinison, Kevin Kinison |
| Parents | Samuel Earl Kinison, Marie Florence Morrow |
| Height | 1.69 m |
| Net Worth | $800,000 (at time of death) |
| Source of Wealth | Stand-up comedy, acting, writing, producing |
What is the Net Worth of Sam Kinison in 2025?
In today’s comedy landscape, the earnings of stand-up legends vary significantly. At the time of his passing in 1992, Sam Kinison’s net worth stood at $800,000. While this figure remains unchanged, it’s important to note that modern comedians, including his contemporaries, have built far greater wealth.
Compared to current top-earning comedians, Kinison’s wealth was relatively modest. His earnings stemmed primarily from stand-up specials, movie roles, and comedy albums. If he had lived longer, his legacy might have included multi-million-dollar deals similar to those of today’s biggest names.
Other figures in comedy and entertainment:
- Rodney Dangerfield
- Bill Hicks
- Jim Carrey
- Robin Williams
- Howard Stern
- Richard Pryor
- Eddie Murphy
- George Carlin
- Andrew Dice Clay
- David Letterman
For a deeper look at high-earning entertainers, check out this list of the most successful stars.
Sam Kinison Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did He Start His Career in Comedy?
Sam Kinison’s path to fame wasn’t typical. Before making people laugh, he was a Pentecostal preacher. From the ages of 17 to 24, he delivered “fire and brimstone” sermons, but his lack of financial success in preaching led him to comedy.
His breakthrough came when he worked as a doorman at The Comedy Store in Los Angeles. Rodney Dangerfield recognized his raw talent, giving him a national platform in Rodney Dangerfield’s Ninth Annual Young Comedians Special. That performance launched him into mainstream comedy.
What Were His Most Notable Career Achievements?
Kinison’s comedy career skyrocketed in the late 1980s. He became known for his screaming, intense comedic style, often satirizing relationships and social issues. His major highlights include:
Television Appearances:
Saturday Night Live (host and guest performer, 1985–1986)
Late Night with David Letterman (1985)
Married… with Children (1989)
Tales from the Crypt (1990)
Movies:
Savage Dawn (1985)
Back to School (1986)
Comedy Albums:
Louder Than Hell (1986)
Have You Seen Me Lately? (1988)
Leader of the Banned (1990)
Live from Hell (1993, posthumous release)
His comedy albums and specials were highly successful, earning him a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Comedy Album (Live from Hell, 1995).
How Did He Influence Stand-Up Comedy?
Sam Kinison’s impact on comedy can’t be overstated. He redefined stand-up by blending raw energy, satire, and shock humor. Many comedians, including Bill Hicks, cited him as a major influence.
His comedy pushed boundaries, leading to controversy and admiration. Some called him a comedic genius, while others criticized his misogynistic and politically incorrect jokes. Regardless, he shaped the landscape of stand-up, paving the way for shock comedy in later years.
What Challenges Did He Face in His Personal Life?
Kinison’s life offstage was chaotic. His battle with substance abuse was widely known. He frequently struggled with cocaine and alcohol, which impacted both his personal and professional life.
He was also involved in several controversies, including:
- A rape accusation against his bodyguard (charges were later dropped).
- Physical altercations, including an incident where he allegedly choked guitarist Slash from Guns N’ Roses.
Despite these struggles, he attempted to clean up his act before his death, reportedly joining Alcoholics Anonymous.
How Did He Pass Away and What Was the Aftermath?
On April 10, 1992, Kinison was driving his Pontiac Turbo Trans Am to a show in Laughlin, Nevada, when a 17-year-old drunk driver, Troy Pierson, collided with his car on Needles Highway.
His last words were eerie. Witnesses, including his close friend Carl LaBove, reported that Kinison looked towards the sky, saying:
“I don’t want to die. I don’t want to die.”
(Pause)
“But why?”
(Pause)
“Okay, okay… okay.”
He died at the scene from internal injuries. His wife, Malika Souiri, survived with minor injuries.
Following his passing, tributes poured in from fellow comedians and musicians. George Carlin dedicated his HBO special Jammin’ in New York to Kinison, and Howard Stern later pursued a biopic project based on his life.
Conclusion
Sam Kinison’s legacy lives on as one of the most unforgettable comedians of his time.
Though his net worth may not have reached the heights of today’s top stand-ups, his influence on comedy is undeniable.
What are your thoughts on his career and financial journey? Leave a comment, share this article, or explore more entertainment stories on Aupeo!
