Nancy Cartwright, the voice actress behind one of the most iconic characters in television history, Bart Simpson, has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry. Her contributions to “The Simpsons” and other successful projects have not only earned her a dedicated fan base but also a substantial net worth. In this article, we will explore Nancy Cartwright’s net worth, the sources of her income, and how she became one of the wealthiest voice actors in the world.
Nancy Cartwright was born on October 25, 1957, in Dayton, Ohio. From a young age, she showed an interest in performing arts, particularly in voice acting. After attending Ohio University, she transferred to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) to pursue a career in voice acting. Her early years in the industry were marked by small roles and commercial work, but her big break came when she auditioned for a role on a new animated series that would change her life forever.
In 1987, Nancy Cartwright auditioned for the role of Lisa Simpson on “The Simpsons,” a segment on “The Tracey Ullman Show.” However, she felt a stronger connection with the character Bart Simpson, a mischievous and rebellious boy. The show’s creators were so impressed with her audition that they offered her the role of Bart instead. This decision proved to be a turning point in Cartwright’s career.
“The Simpsons” became a cultural phenomenon, and Bart Simpson quickly became one of the most recognizable characters in television history. Nancy Cartwright’s portrayal of Bart earned her widespread acclaim, and she has voiced the character for over three decades. This long-term association with “The Simpsons” has been a significant contributor to Nancy Cartwright’s net worth.
As one of the main cast members of “The Simpsons,” Nancy Cartwright has earned substantial income from the show. In the early years, the cast members were paid modestly, but as the show’s popularity grew, so did their salaries. By the late 1990s, the cast members were earning approximately $125,000 per episode. In 2004, they negotiated a raise to $250,000 per episode, and in 2008, this amount increased to $400,000 per episode.
However, in 2011, due to budget cuts, the cast agreed to a 30% pay cut, reducing their salary to around $300,000 per episode. Despite this reduction, Cartwright’s earnings from “The Simpsons” remain a significant portion of her wealth. With over 700 episodes aired, her total earnings from the show are estimated to be in the tens of millions.
While “The Simpsons” is her most famous role, Nancy Cartwright has lent her voice to numerous other projects throughout her career. Some of her notable roles include:
These additional roles have contributed to Cartwright’s overall earnings and solidified her reputation as one of the most versatile voice actors in the industry.
In addition to her work as a voice actress, Nancy Cartwright has explored writing and producing. In 2000, she published her autobiography, “My Life as a 10-Year-Old Boy,” which provides an inside look at her career and experiences on “The Simpsons.” The book was well-received and offered fans a deeper understanding of the woman behind Bart Simpson.
Cartwright has also ventured into producing. In 2017, she produced the film “In Search of Fellini,” a coming-of-age drama based on her own experiences. The film received positive reviews and showcased Cartwright’s talents beyond voice acting.
Like many wealthy individuals, Nancy Cartwright has invested in real estate to diversify her income and build her wealth. Over the years, she has purchased several properties in California, including a mansion in the upscale neighborhood of Northridge. These real estate investments have appreciated significantly, further boosting her net worth.
In addition to her personal real estate holdings, Cartwright has also invested in commercial properties. Her real estate portfolio is estimated to be worth several million dollars, contributing to her overall financial success.
Despite her considerable wealth, Nancy Cartwright is known for her philanthropic efforts. She has donated millions of dollars to various causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts. Cartwright is particularly passionate about supporting initiatives that benefit children and families.
One of her most notable contributions is to the Happy House Foundation, an organization she co-founded in 2002. The foundation focuses on providing education and life skills to children and families in need. Through her philanthropic work, Cartwright has made a positive impact on countless lives and continues to use her wealth for the greater good.
As of 2024, Nancy Cartwright’s net worth is estimated to be around $85 million. This impressive figure is the result of her long and successful career in voice acting, her smart investments, and her ventures in writing and producing. Cartwright’s wealth is a testament to her talent, hard work, and business acumen.
Nancy Cartwright has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her portrayal of Bart Simpson has made her a household name, and her contributions to other projects have demonstrated her versatility and range as a voice actress. Beyond her professional achievements, Cartwright’s philanthropy and dedication to helping others have made her a role model for aspiring actors and entertainers.
As “The Simpsons” continues to air, Cartwright’s legacy will only grow, and her net worth is likely to increase as well. She remains an influential figure in Hollywood and a beloved voice in the hearts of fans around the world.