The Richest Dancing With The Stars Judge Might Surprise You

Since its debut back in 2005, "Dancing With the Stars" has captured audiences across the nation, becoming a staple of Monday night television. Its dynamic blend of dance, competition, and celebrity has kept viewers tuning in season after season, even as the show has evolved. The departure of longtime host Tom Bergeron and the introduction of Tyra Banks brought a fresh twist to the series, but it hasn’t deterred the loyal fan base from enjoying the drama, romance, and fierce competition that the show offers.

As with many reality shows, the financial stakes are high. Contestants on "Dancing With the Stars" can earn substantial paychecks just for participating. Judges, who are crucial to the show's success, also enjoy hefty earnings for their roles. But how much do these ballroom experts truly take home? The figures may surprise you, especially when discovering who the richest judge is!

In this article, we will delve into the earnings of each judge on the show, revealing not just their salaries, but also their surprising side ventures and investments that have contributed to their wealth. From property flips to music careers, you’ll learn how these stars have capitalized on their fame and expertise in the dance world!

Table of Contents

• Derek Hough's Financial Ventures
• Carrie Ann Inaba's Income Streams
• Julianne Hough's Triple Threat Earnings
• Bruno Tonioli's Wealth and Investments
• Len Goodman's Late-Life Success

Derek Hough's Financial Ventures

Derek Hough, renowned for his impressive dance skills and vibrant personality, has made a name for himself far beyond just the "Dancing With the Stars" stage. Known for his long-standing friendship with fellow dancer Mark Ballas, their bond extends back to childhood, leading to successful collaborations in business.

In 2014, Derek and Mark ventured into real estate together, purchasing a four-bedroom apartment for $1.275 million. After a successful renovation, they flipped the property, selling it for $1.85 million within a year. Their journey was documented in the show "Mark and Derek's Excellent Flip," showcasing their skills not only as dancers but also as savvy investors!

Carrie Ann Inaba's Income Streams

With a television career spanning over three decades, Carrie Ann Inaba is a recognizable face in the entertainment industry. From her early days on "In Living Color" to her enduring role as a judge on "Dancing With the Stars," she has accumulated wealth through various avenues. Her experience in live television has significantly contributed to her earnings.

Initially earning $250,000 per episode, Carrie Ann’s salary increased as the show gained popularity, reaching $1.2 million per season. In addition to her role on the dance show, she co-hosted "The Talk," enhancing her visibility and income. Despite stepping back from the latter in 2021 for health reasons, her total net worth is estimated at $9 million, reflecting her diverse career.

Julianne Hough's Triple Threat Earnings

Julianne Hough is a true multi-threat, excelling in dance, music, and acting. Initially joining "Dancing With the Stars" as a pro dancer, she quickly transitioned to judging, where her earnings skyrocketed to approximately $1.2 million per season. Her talents do not stop there; she has also showcased her acting prowess in productions like "Grease Live!" and "Footloose."

Her musical career further adds to her wealth, with her self-titled album reaching No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart. With impressive real estate investments, including a Hollywood Hills home, Julianne's net worth is estimated at $10 million, confirming her status as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry!

Bruno Tonioli's Wealth and Investments

Bruno Tonioli has enjoyed a successful career in Hollywood, choreographing for various films and music videos. As a judge on "Dancing With the Stars," he has become a beloved personality, contributing to his impressive net worth. His cumulative earnings from both the U.S. and UK versions of the show are noteworthy, particularly given his savvy approach to financial management.

Bruno's commitment to saving and wise investments, including a stunning $2.825 million mansion in West Hollywood, have solidified his financial standing, with his estimated net worth sitting at $16 million. His journey underscores the importance of not just earning but also managing wealth effectively!

Len Goodman's Late-Life Success

Len Goodman began his journey in the dance world as a professional dancer but found renewed fame as a judge on "Dancing With the Stars." Despite initially planning to retire, he has remained a fixture on the show, earning substantial compensation for his expertise. His ability to negotiate favorable contracts has led to impressive earnings, with estimates of over $1 million per season.

Len's financial success is also reflected in his various business ventures and property investments. With a net worth estimated at $18 million, he exemplifies how late-life opportunities can lead to significant financial gains. His story is a testament to the adage that it’s never too late to achieve your dreams!