Sinbad’s financial journey has been a rollercoaster ride, from early stardom to significant financial troubles.
The renowned comedian and actor, known for his work on A Different World and various comedy films, has had his fair share of successes and setbacks.
But what is Sinbad’s net worth in 2025, and how did he build his wealth over the years? Let’s dive into Sinbad’s financial story, from his breakout roles to his bankruptcy struggles and how he’s rebuilding his life.
Sinbad Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | David Adkins |
| Popular Name | Sinbad |
| Birth Date | November 10, 1956 |
| Age | 68 (as of February 27, 2025) |
| Birthplace | Benton Harbor, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American (with Irish ancestry) |
| Education | University of Denver (1974-1978) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Meredith Adkins (m. 2002), Meredith Adkins (m. 1985–1992) |
| Children | 2 (Royce and Paige) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Donna, Dorothea, Mark, Michael, Donald Jr. |
| Parents | Donald Adkins, Louise Adkins |
| Height | 1.96 m |
| Net Worth | $100,000 |
| Source of Wealth | Comedy, Acting, TV Hosting |
What is the Net Worth of Sinbad in 2025?
As of 2025, Sinbad’s net worth is estimated at around $100,000. This is a significant drop from his peak in the 90s when he was a household name due to his hit TV shows and successful comedy specials. Sinbad’s financial troubles are widely known, with the comedian filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in 2013 due to overwhelming tax debt and other financial struggles. However, his determination to rebuild his financial situation, after his stroke recovery, shows resilience.
Compared to other notable comedians and actors, Sinbad’s wealth pales in comparison to stars like Eddie Murphy, Chris Rock, and Kevin Hart, who have multi-million dollar fortunes. Still, Sinbad has built a reputable career that allowed him to work across multiple platforms. For more on celebrity wealth, check out this detailed list of the richest celebrities.
- Eddie Murphy
- Chris Rock
- Kevin Hart
- Phil Hartman
- Arnold Schwarzenegger
Sinbad Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did Sinbad Build His Wealth?
Sinbad’s rise to fame began in the mid-1980s, gaining national attention on Star Search. Winning that competition opened doors for him in television and film. He became widely known for his role as Coach Walter Oakes on A Different World (1987–1991), a popular spin-off from The Cosby Show. His success continued with several comedy films in the 90s, including Houseguest (1995) and Jingle All the Way (1996).
His comedy career flourished with successful HBO specials such as Brain Damaged (1990) and Afros and Bellbottoms (1993). Sinbad’s wealth was driven by his versatile roles across multiple platforms—TV shows, stand-up specials, film, and hosting gigs like It’s Showtime at the Apollo. His ability to stay relevant through a mix of entertainment forms allowed him to sustain a lucrative career in the industry.
Financial Troubles and Bankruptcy
Unfortunately, Sinbad’s financial situation took a serious hit in the early 2010s. In May 2013, he filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, citing $10.99 million in debt, including $8.3 million owed to the IRS. At the time, he claimed just $131,000 in assets. The majority of his debt was from unpaid taxes for the years 1998 to 2006. Despite his success on screen, these financial issues significantly impacted his wealth, leaving him in a tough spot.
Sinbad’s bankruptcy meant that he would have to restructure his debts through a court-approved payment plan. While not wiping out his debts, Chapter 13 helped him regain control of his finances. The bankruptcy filing showcased the importance of financial management, even for celebrities who seem to have it all.
Earnings from Acting and Comedy
Sinbad’s income streams over the years have come from multiple sources. His primary earnings were from television and film acting, especially from roles that solidified his reputation in the 90s. His starring role in A Different World and his movie appearances in Necessary Roughness (1991) and Coneheads (1993) brought in significant revenue.
In addition to acting, Sinbad earned from his successful stand-up comedy career. He released several specials for HBO, including Sinbad: Brain Damaged (1990) and Sinbad – Son of a Preacher Man (1996), which solidified his position as one of the most sought-after comedians in the 90s. Touring and DVD sales also contributed to his wealth, though his tax issues later overshadowed these successes.
Financial Struggles with Tax Debt
Sinbad’s financial woes were largely linked to his tax debts. From 1998 to 2006, the comedian faced significant tax problems, particularly with the IRS. He owed a staggering $8.3 million, which led to the 2013 bankruptcy filing. The majority of his assets were tied up in property and vehicles, with little in liquid assets to cover his liabilities. Over the years, Sinbad worked with tax professionals to resolve his issues, but his debts remained a significant obstacle to his financial freedom.
Current Salary and Income
Sinbad’s salary is not publicly disclosed, but it’s likely that his income has decreased significantly in recent years, especially after the health challenges that followed his stroke in 2020. While he is recovering, the stroke placed a substantial strain on his finances, with medical bills and full-time care being a significant burden. However, his participation in comedy tours and occasional TV roles still help him maintain a source of income.
Given that Sinbad remains active in the entertainment industry, his earnings are probably tied to his live performances, which still attract a loyal fan base. Despite health setbacks, Sinbad’s resilience allows him to continue generating income through the world of comedy.
Conclusion
Sinbad’s financial journey has been anything but predictable. From rising to fame as a comedian and actor to facing significant financial setbacks, he’s shown remarkable determination in rebuilding his wealth.
While his net worth has seen drastic fluctuations, Sinbad’s legacy in comedy and entertainment continues to inspire.
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