Hollywood Richest: From starting as a Hollywood extra at 17 to building a Rs. 10,000-crore business empire, George Clooney’s journey is one of resilience, talent, and bold choices. Today, the actor stands richer than some of Hollywood’s biggest names, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Brad Pitt, and Johnny Depp.
A Star Is Born
George Clooney’s rise to fame wasn’t instantaneous. After spending years in small TV roles and enduring numerous failed pilots throughout the 1980s, his breakthrough came in 1994 when he was cast as Dr. Doug Ross on the medical drama ER. The role catapulted him into stardom, turning him into a global heartthrob practically overnight.
However, Clooney refused to be confined to one image. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, he took calculated risks by starring in unconventional projects such as From Dusk Till Dawn (1996) and the wildly successful Ocean's Eleven trilogy, where his suave demeanor became iconic.
An Actor and a Visionary
Determined to prove his mettle beyond just good looks, Clooney sought out thought-provoking roles. He earned an Academy Award for Syriana (2005) and critical acclaim for performances in Michael Clayton (2007) and The Descendants (2011). Clooney’s talents extended behind the camera as well, with directorial successes such as Good Night, and Good Luck (2005).
The Business Mogul Behind Casamigos Tequila
Clooney’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2013 when he co-founded Casamigos Tequila with friends Rande Gerber and Mike Meldman. Initially intended as a personal project for their circle, the brand quickly gained traction in the premium tequila market due to its smooth taste and understated luxury.
In 2017, Casamigos achieved global recognition when beverage giant Diageo purchased the brand for $1 billion (over Rs. 10,000 crore). Clooney’s active involvement in the brand’s development set it apart from traditional celebrity endorsements, cementing its status as a symbol of luxury and his reputation as a shrewd businessman.
Among Hollywood’s Wealthiest
With an estimated networth of USD500 million, or more than Rs. 5,000 crore, Clooney is one of Hollywood's wealthiest figures. While his per-film earnings of USD20-35 million (Rs. 170-297 crore) are lower than some peers, his fortune is largely fueled by his ventures in acting, directing, producing, and, notably, his success with Casamigos.
Clooney’s wealth surpasses Hollywood heavyweights like Brad Pitt ($350 million), Johnny Depp ($250 million or Rs. 2,500 crore), and Arnold Schwarzenegger ($400 million or Rs. 4,000 crore). This places him among the top six richest actors globally, alongside Dwayne Johnson, Tom Cruise, and Shah Rukh Khan.