Laurence Fishburne’s Net Worth 2024: Income and Career Insights

Have you ever wondered how this Hollywood icon has built his impressive wealth? From his iconic roles in The Matrix to his work as a producer and director, Fishburne has amassed a fortune worth exploring. So, just how much is he worth in 2024?

Laurence Fishburne’s net worth in 2024 is estimated at around $30 million. With decades in the industry, his income stems from acting, production, and smart investments. In this article, we’ll break down his career highlights, various income sources, and what contributes most to his financial success.

Laurence Fishburne’s net worth in 2024 and a brief biography

Net Worth of Laurence Fishburne in 2024

As of 2024, Laurence Fishburne’s net worth is estimated to be around $30 million. This impressive wealth stems from his thriving acting career, successful directing endeavors, and various business ventures.

Fishburne’s talent, dedication, and flexibility have allowed him to earn significant income from his contributions to both film and television. His diverse skill set has made him a sought-after figure in the industry, further enhancing his financial success.

Salary Highlights

• The Matrix Trilogy: For his role in the first “Matrix” movie, Fishburne earned a relatively small amount. However, for the second and third installments, he earned $15 million each, along with 3.75% of the backend profits, bringing his total earnings from those two films to around $40 million.

• CSI: Crime Scene Investigation: During his peak on CSI, Fishburne earned $350,000 per episode, totaling approximately $8 million per season.

• Hannibal: For his role in the series Hannibal, he earned $175,000 per episode over 36 episodes, amounting to around $6.3 million.

• Black-ish: Fishburne earns $200,000 per episode for Black-ish, where he serves both as a star and an executive producer.

Income Sources of Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne’s primary income comes from his remarkable acting career, where he has taken on iconic roles in major blockbuster films, firmly establishing himself as one of Hollywood’s most in-demand actors.

His impressive performances include the Matrix trilogy, along with standout roles in popular films like John Wick: Chapter 2, Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Ant-Man and the Wasp. Additionally, Fishburne has made a significant impact on television, particularly through his role in the acclaimed series CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.

Beyond acting, Fishburne has explored various areas of the entertainment industry. His directorial debut in the film Riff Raff in 1994 marked the start of his journey in directing. Alongside acting and directing, he has broadened his income sources by producing and engaging in diverse business ventures.

As of February 2024, Laurence Fishburne’s estimated net worth is approximately $30 million, reflecting the financial achievements he has amassed throughout his multifaceted career.

From his early role as Cowboy Curtis in Pee-Wee’s Playhouse to his evolution into an award-winning actor and director, Fishburne’s journey highlights his remarkable talent and adaptability in the ever-changing world of entertainment.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Early Life

• Birth: Laurence Fishburne was born in 1961 in Augusta, Georgia.

• Parents: His mother, Hattie, was a junior high school math and science teacher, and his father, Laurence Jr., worked as a juvenile corrections officer.

• Divorce and Move: After his parents divorced, Fishburne moved with his mother to Brooklyn, New York.

• Education: He attended the former Lincoln Square Academy.

Acting Career Beginnings

• First Role: Fishburne’s acting journey began in 1973 when he played Joshua Hall on the ABC soap opera “One Life to Live.”

• Feature Film Debut: He made his film debut in the coming-of-age drama “Cornbread, Earl and Me,” portraying a young boy who witnesses the police shooting of a high school basketball star.

• Apocalypse Now: In 1979, he had a supporting role in the Vietnam War film “Apocalypse Now,” where he played Tyrone Miller. He started filming at just 14 years old, but due to the prolonged shooting schedule, he was 17 when the film was completed.

Some Interesting Facts about Laurence Fishburne

Early Entry into the Acting Scene

Laurence Fishburne began his acting career at a remarkably young age, making his Broadway debut at just 12 years old in the production “In My Many Names and Days.” This initial experience set the stage for his successful journey in the entertainment industry.

Pivotal Breakthrough

Fishburne gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of troubled teenager Joshua “Cowboy” Curtis in the acclaimed film “Boyz n the Hood” (1991). This powerful performance received significant praise and opened doors to more prominent opportunities in his career.

Iconic Figure

One of Fishburne’s most iconic roles is that of Morpheus in the revolutionary science fiction trilogy “The Matrix” (1999-2003). His portrayal of the wise and enigmatic leader became a cultural landmark, cementing his reputation as a respected actor.

Stage Triumphs

In addition to his film and television work, Fishburne has also excelled on the stage. His performance as Sterling Johnson in the play “Two Trains Running” (1992) earned him a Tony Award, showcasing his talent in various successful theater productions.

Venturing into Directing

Alongside his acting career, Fishburne has taken on directing roles for several projects, including the film “Once in the Life” (2000) and episodes of popular television shows like “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” and “NCIS.”

Voice Artistry

Fishburne’s distinct and powerful voice has led to many voice-acting opportunities. He lent his voice to characters in animated films such as “Kung Fu Panda” (2008) and “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer” (2007).

Charitable Contributions

An active philanthropist, Fishburne supports a variety of causes, including cancer research, youth empowerment, and veterans’ rights. His charitable work highlights his dedication to making a positive difference beyond the entertainment realm.

Awards and Accolades

Throughout his illustrious career, Fishburne has received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including an Academy Award nomination for his role in “What’s Love Got to Do with It” (1993), a Golden Globe Award for the same performance, and multiple NAACP Image Awards.

Laurence Fishburne’s Film Career in the 1980s

In the 1980s, Laurence Fishburne established himself as a versatile actor through a variety of roles across different genres:

Early Appearances:

• “Willie & Phil”: A dramedy where Fishburne showcased his acting range.
• “Death Wish II”: Featured in this action film sequel, further broadening his experience in the action genre.

Collaborations with Francis Ford Coppola:

• “Rumble Fish”: A drama that highlighted his dramatic skills.
• “The Cotton Club”: Another drama directed by Coppola, where Fishburne took on a significant role.

Notable Projects:

• “The Color Purple” (1985): Had a bit part in this critically acclaimed film directed by Steven Spielberg.
• “Quicksilver”: Starred in this drama that explored themes of risk and adventure.
• “Band of the Hand”: An action crime thriller that showcased Fishburne’s ability to handle intense roles.

Horror and Drama:

• “A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors” (1987): Played a key role in this popular horror franchise installment.

• “Gardens of Stone”: A war drama that further demonstrated his range as an actor.
• “Cherry 2000”: A science fiction film that added to his diverse portfolio.

Closing the Decade:

• “Red Heat”: Co-starring with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jim Belushi in this action-comedy.
• “School Daze”: A significant role in Spike Lee’s film, where he starred alongside Giancarlo Esposito and Tisha Campbell, addressing themes of race and identity.

Through these films, Fishburne laid the groundwork for a successful career, showcasing his talent and versatility as an actor throughout the 1980s.

Laurence Fishburne’s Film Career in the 1990s

Laurence Fishburne’s film career flourished in the 1990s, marked by critically acclaimed performances and iconic roles:

Early 90s Projects:

• “King of New York” (1990): Fishburne kicked off the decade with this controversial crime thriller directed by Abel Ferrara, starring alongside Christopher Walken, Wesley Snipes, and David Caruso.

• “Cadence”: A prison film that explored themes of redemption and justice.

• “Class Action”: A legal drama that showcased Fishburne’s versatility as an actor.

Breakthrough Role:

• “Boyz n the Hood” (1991): Fishburne achieved widespread recognition for his role as Jason “Furious” Styles in John Singleton’s coming-of-age drama. The film, co-starring Ice Cube, Cuba Gooding Jr., Morris Chestnut, Nia Long, and Regina King, grossed nearly $60 million and earned two Academy Award nominations, solidifying Fishburne’s status as a leading actor.

Critical Success:

• “Deep Cover” (1992): Another pivotal film in Fishburne’s career, further establishing his presence in the industry.

• “What’s Love Got to Do with It” (1993): In this biographical film, he portrayed Ike Turner opposite Angela Bassett as Tina Turner. Both actors received Academy Award nominations for their powerful performances.

Diverse Roles:

• “Searching for Bobby Fischer”: A film about chess prodigy Bobby Fischer, where Fishburne showcased his dramatic talents.

• “Higher Learning”: A film that dealt with issues of race and identity on a college campus.

• “Bad Company”: An action-comedy that highlighted his ability to tackle different genres.

• “Just Cause”: A legal thriller that further demonstrated his range.

• “Othello”: Fishburne took on the titular role in this adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, receiving praise for his performance.

Late 90s Contributions:

• “Event Horizon”: A sci-fi horror film that showcased Fishburne’s versatility in genre films.
• “Hoodlum”: A film about organized crime in Harlem during the 1930s.
• “Welcome to Hollywood”: A satirical take on the film industry.

Iconic Role:

• “The Matrix” (1999): Fishburne closed out the decade with one of his most famous roles as Morpheus, the hacker-mentor in this groundbreaking science fiction film. The film’s success would further cement his legacy in Hollywood.

Throughout the 1990s, Fishburne’s performances demonstrated his ability to tackle complex characters and contribute meaningfully to the films he starred in, making him one of the most respected actors of his generation.

Laurence Fishburne’s Film Career in the 2000s and Beyond

Laurence Fishburne’s career continued to thrive in the 2000s and 2010s, marked by a diverse array of roles across various genres:

The early 2000s

• “Osmosis Jones” (2001): Fishburne lent his voice to this animated children’s film, showcasing his versatility beyond live-action roles.

• “The Matrix Reloaded” and “The Matrix Revolutions” (2003): He reprised his iconic role as Morpheus in the sequels to “The Matrix,” further solidifying his status in the science fiction genre.

• Other Notable Films: Fishburne appeared in several acclaimed films during this period, including:

• “Mystic River” (2003): A crime drama directed by Clint Eastwood that earned critical acclaim.

• “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang” (2005): A comedic crime film that highlighted his ability to blend drama with humor.

• “Assault on Precinct 13” (2005): A remake of the classic thriller, where he played a central role.

• “Akeelah and the Bee” (2006): A family drama centered around a young spelling bee contestant, showcasing Fishburne’s mentoring character.

• “Bobby” (2006): A film that portrayed the life and assassination of Robert F. Kennedy, featuring an ensemble cast.

• “Five Fingers” (2006): A thriller that explored themes of espionage and betrayal.

Late 2000s

• “21” (2008): Fishburne starred in this heist film about a group of MIT students who use their math skills to win big in Las Vegas.

• “Armored” (2009): A crime thriller about a heist that goes wrong, showcasing Fishburne’s ability to navigate intense narratives.

• “Black Water Transit” (2009): A crime drama exploring the criminal underworld and its consequences.

2010s

• “Contagion” (2011): Fishburne played a significant role in this medical thriller about a global pandemic, highlighting his ability to engage in timely, relevant topics.

• “Ride Along” (2014): A comedy-action film where he played the role of a police officer, adding humor to his impressive filmography.

• “Rudderless” (2014): A drama that centered on a father discovering his deceased son’s music, showcasing Fishburne’s dramatic range.

• “Passengers” (2016): A sci-fi romance film that highlighted Fishburne’s presence in another high-profile project.

• “Last Flag Flying” (2017): A drama-comedy about three Vietnam War veterans, emphasizing themes of friendship and loss.

• “The Mule” (2018): Directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, where Fishburne had a prominent role.

Superhero Films and Action Sequels

• “Man of Steel” (2013): Fishburne portrayed Perry White, the editor of the Daily Planet, in this reboot of the Superman franchise.

• “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” (2016): He reprised his role as Perry White in this superhero blockbuster.

• “Ant-Man and the Wasp” (2018): Fishburne joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Bill Foster, further expanding his presence in the superhero genre.

• “John Wick: Chapter 2” (2017) and “John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum” (2019): Fishburne played ‘The Bowery King,’ a key character in this popular action franchise, demonstrating his continued appeal in high-octane films.

Television Career

Laurence Fishburne’s television career has been diverse, showcasing his range as an actor from his early days to significant roles in popular series:

Early Television Appearances

• Debut on “One Life to Live”: Fishburne made his acting debut in 1973, portraying Joshua Hall in this ABC soap opera.

Guest Roles: He appeared in various notable series, including:

• “Trapper John, M.D.”
• “MAS*H”
• “Strike Force”
• “Hill Street Blues”
• “Miami Vice”

Television Films: Fishburne featured in several TV films, such as:

• “A Rumor of War”
• “For Us the Living: The Medgar Evers Story”

• “Pee-wee’s Playhouse”: He had a recurring role in this popular children’s show, appearing in 17 episodes.

1990s Television Projects

Fishburne continued to take on significant roles in television films, including:

• “Decoration Day” (1990)
• “The Tuskegee Airmen” (1995)
• “Miss Evers’ Boys” (1997): He not only starred but also produced this film.
• “Always Outnumbered” (1998): Another production credit for Fishburne, highlighting his involvement behind the camera.

Major Roles in the 2000s and Beyond

• “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (2008-2015): Fishburne took on a prominent role as Dr. Raymond Langston, a college professor and former pathologist. His character was integral to the series, and he appeared in 60 episodes, showcasing his talent in a procedural drama format.

• “Hannibal” (2013-2015): Fishburne starred as Jack Crawford, the head of the Behavioral Science Unit, in this psychological thriller series. His performance contributed significantly to the show’s acclaim and popularity.

• “Black-ish” (2014-Present): In this hit ABC sitcom, Fishburne plays Earl Johnson, a role that blends humor with social commentary. He also serves as an executive producer for the series, further establishing his influence in television.

Theatrical Career

Laurence Fishburne’s theatrical career is marked by significant achievements and a deep commitment to stage performance. His journey in theater has showcased his versatility and passion for the craft.

Early Stage Credits

Initial Productions: Fishburne’s stage career began with notable early credits, including:

• “Eden”
• “Short Eyes”
• “Urban Blight”
• “Loose Ends”

These early roles helped establish him as a talented actor in the theater community.

Major Accomplishments

Tony Award Win (1992):

• Fishburne received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play for his powerful performance in August Wilson’s acclaimed play “Two Trains Running.” This accolade solidified his status as a leading figure in American theater.

Later Productions:

Fishburne continued to make an impact on stage with performances in several notable productions, including:

• “Riff Raff”
• “The Lion in Winter”
• “Fences”: Another collaboration with August Wilson, showcasing his range and ability to tackle complex characters.

“Thurgood” (2008):

• In this one-person show about the life of Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, Fishburne delivered a remarkable performance that earned him the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding One-Person Show. His portrayal was celebrated for its depth and emotional resonance, bringing Marshall’s legacy to life on stage.

Personal Life

Laurence Fishburne’s personal life has been marked by several significant relationships and family milestones. He initially married actress Hajna O. Moss in 1985 in New York, and together they have two children: Langston, born in 1987, and Montana Fishburne, born in 1991. However, their marriage ended in divorce during the 1990s.

After his separation from Hajna, Fishburne dated actress Victoria Dillard from 1992 to 1995. He later found love with actress Gina Torres; the couple got engaged in February 2001 and married on September 22, 2002, at The Cloisters Museum in New York City. Together, they welcomed a daughter named Delilah in June 2007.

Unfortunately, their relationship took a turn, and in September 2017, it was confirmed that Fishburne and Torres had separated, having kept the matter private for the previous year. Fishburne filed for divorce on November 2, 2017, and the divorce was finalized on May 11, 2018, after settling on April 16, 2018.

Currently, Fishburne resides in Hollywood while also maintaining a home in New York City, specifically in the Castle Village Co-Op located in the Hudson Heights area of Washington Heights. He has expressed admiration for Brazilian author Paulo Coelho and is enthusiastic about producing a film based on Coelho’s beloved novel, “The Alchemist.”

Real Estate

In October 2001, Laurence Fishburne purchased a 6,000-square-foot home in Los Angeles for $2.25 million. Today, this property is valued at approximately $5-6 million.

FAQs about Laurence Fishburne 2024

Q1. How old is Laurence Fishburne?

As of 2024, Laurence Fishburne is 62 years old. (Date of Birth: July 30, 1961 )

Q2. How tall is Laurence Fishburne?

Laurence Fishburne stands at a height of 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm).

Q3. What is Laurence Fishburne’s weight?

Unfortunately, specific details about Laurence Fishburne’s current weight are not publicly available.

Q4. Is Laurence Fishburne married?

Yes, as of 2024, Laurence Fishburne is married to actress Gina Torres.  However, they filed for divorce in 2017 and it was finalized in 2018.

Q5. Who is Laurence Fishburne dating?

As of the most recent available data, there is no information regarding Laurence Fishburne’s current dating status.

Q6. How many children does Laurence Fishburne have?

Laurence Fishburne has three children from his previous marriages:

• Langston Fishburne (Son): Born in 1987 from his first marriage to actress Hajna O. Moss.
• Montana Fishburne (Daughter): Born in 1991 from his first marriage to Hajna O. Moss.
• Delilah Fishburne (Daughter): Born in 2007 from his second marriage to actress Gina Torres.

Q7. What are Laurence Fishburne’s notable film roles?

Laurence Fishburne has certainly portrayed several iconic film roles, including Morpheus in “The Matrix” trilogy, Ike Turner in “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” and Furious Styles in “Boyz n the Hood.” These memorable performances have played a crucial role in establishing his esteemed reputation within the film industry.

Q8. Has Laurence Fishburne won any awards?

Yes, Laurence Fishburne‘s accolades include a Tony Award for his performance in “Two Trains Running,” a Golden Globe Award for his role in “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” and several NAACP Image Awards.

Q9. What is Laurence Fishburne’s source of income?

Laurence Fishburne primarily generates his income from his successful acting career. However, he has also diversified his earnings by taking on roles in directing, producing, and pursuing various other business ventures.

Q10. How did Laurence Fishburne start his acting career?

Laurence Fishburne began his acting journey on Broadway at the age of 12, establishing a foundation for a career that would evolve significantly over the years. From this early start in theater, he seamlessly transitioned into film and television, demonstrating his versatility and leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

Q11. What is Laurence Fishburne’s involvement in philanthropy?

Laurence Fishburne is actively engaged in supporting various charitable causes, showcasing his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the entertainment industry. His philanthropic efforts focus on areas such as cancer research, youth empowerment, and veterans’ rights. Fishburne’s dedication to these initiatives highlights his desire to contribute significantly to the well-being of society.

Q12. Is Laurence Fishburne active on social media?

As of 2024, Laurence Fishburne‘s presence on social media platforms may vary. For the most current updates, it’s best to check his official social media accounts, where he is likely to share the latest news, insights, and information about his professional and personal activities.

Q13. How long has Laurence Fishburne been in the entertainment industry?

Laurence Fishburne began his journey in the entertainment industry as a teenager, making his Broadway debut at just 12 years old. This early experience laid the foundation for a career that has spanned several decades, highlighting his remarkable talent across various mediums in the entertainment world.

Q14. Has Laurence Fishburne written any books?

As of now, Laurence Fishburne has not yet ventured into the world of book publishing, and there are currently no books authored by him. His creative efforts have predominantly focused on acting, directing, and a variety of philanthropic activities.

Conclusion

In summary, Laurence Fishburne has built an impressive net worth of around $60 million, thanks to his successful acting career, directing projects, and various business ventures. Known for his iconic roles and extensive accolades, Fishburne is regarded as a versatile and respected figure in the entertainment industry. As of 2024, he continues to inspire audiences with his remarkable talent and dedication, while also being actively involved in philanthropy.

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