Bob Saget was a beloved comedian, actor, television host, and director whose career spanned decades and impacted millions of fans. Known for his family-friendly roles alongside his sharp and adult-oriented comedy routines, Saget became a household name and a symbol of humor and versatility. At the time of his passing in 2022, Bob Saget net worth was estimated at $50 million, reflecting a career filled with notable projects, achievements, and accolades.
This article takes a deep look into Bob Saget’s early life, rise to fame, career highlights, personal struggles, and how he built his remarkable wealth.
Early Life and Family Background
Bob Saget, whose full name was Robert Lane Saget, was born on May 17, 1956, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He grew up in a Jewish family. His father, Benjamin Saget, was a supermarket executive, while his mother, Rosalyn, worked as a hospital administrator. Bob spent parts of his childhood in Norfolk, Virginia, and later moved back to Philadelphia.
Saget initially aspired to become a doctor, but a teacher noticed his creative potential and encouraged him to pursue the arts. He attended Temple University in Philadelphia, where he studied film and created his award-winning short film Through Adam’s Eyes, which focused on a boy undergoing reconstructive surgery. Bob graduated in 1978 with a Bachelor of Arts in Film.
Launching His Career
Early Career in Stand-Up Comedy
Saget began performing stand-up comedy while attending Temple University, and his routines encompassed everything from sarcastic humor to absurd satire. His unique style helped him gain recognition at comedy clubs, opening the doors for his move to Los Angeles to pursue a full-time entertainment career.
Breakthrough on Television
Bob Saget’s big break came in 1987 when he was cast as Danny Tanner on the hit TV sitcom Full House. The show became a cultural phenomenon, capturing massive viewership across its eight-season run. At the start, Saget’s salary per episode for Full House was reportedly modest at $2,400, but it soared to $80,000 per episode by the final seasons, making it a major contributor to Bob Saget net worth.
Simultaneously, Saget became a favorite as the original host of America’s Funniest Home Videos (AFV), a role he held from 1989 to 1997. During his tenure, he reportedly earned $1.7 million annually, cementing his status as a comedic star.
Career Highlights and Versatility
Acting Roles and Directing Projects
Beyond Full House and AFV, Bob Saget’s credits include numerous sitcoms, films, and voice roles. He voiced future Ted Mosby on the acclaimed sitcom How I Met Your Mother from 2005 to 2014, narrating his life with insight and humor.
Saget experimented beyond acting, directing films like Dirty Work (1998), a cult favorite starring Norm Macdonald, and For Hope (1996), a heart-wrenching drama inspired by his sister Gay’s battle with scleroderma—a disease Saget was passionate about raising awareness for.
Continued Work in Comedy
While many knew Saget for family-oriented programming, his stand-up comedy painted a very different picture. His routines often featured edgy humor, which he embraced fully in comedy specials like That Ain’t Right and That’s What I’m Talkin’ About. The latter earned him a Grammy nomination, enhancing Bob Saget net worth through tours and digital sales.
Memorable Cameos and Other Projects
Saget made unforgettable guest appearances in pop culture, including HBO’s Entourage, where he played a hilariously exaggerated version of himself. He was also known for the parody film Farce of the Penguins (2007), which he wrote, directed, and starred in.
Exploring Bob Saget Net Worth
Bob Saget’s wealth stemmed from a mix of television salaries, stand-up comedy tours, directing, narrations, and book sales. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $50 million |
| Major Income Sources | Acting, directing, stand-up comedy, TV hosting |
| Highest Salary Per Episode | $80,000 (Full House) |
| Annual AFV Earnings | $1.7 million |
| Other Ventures | Podcasting, book sales (Dirty Daddy) |
While his earnings from past roles were stable, Saget also benefited from steady syndication royalties from Full House and How I Met Your Mother broadcasts over the years.
Personal Life and Challenges
Family and Marriage
Bob Saget married Sherri Kramer in 1982, and they shared three daughters—Aubrey, Lara, and Jennifer. The marriage ended in 1997. Later, Bob married Kelly Rizzo, a food blogger and TV host, in 2018, and the couple remained together until his death.
Advocacy for Scleroderma Research
Bob Saget’s sister Gay lost her life to scleroderma, a rare autoimmune disease. Her passing inspired Saget to become an active supporter of scientific research, helping to raise millions for scleroderma awareness.
Struggles and Loss
Saget faced multiple personal and professional challenges throughout his life, including navigating his parents’ and sister’s deaths. Despite setbacks, he chose to channel his grief into creating impactful work that connected with audiences.
Legacy and Tributes
Bob Saget passed away on January 9, 2022, at age 65, due to accidental head trauma. Fondly remembered for his humor and warmth, he left behind an enduring legacy in the entertainment world.
Awards and Recognitions
- Grammy Nomination for Best Comedy Album (That’s What I’m Talkin’ About)
- TV Land Award Nominee for Full House
- Multiple tributes from peers, including Netflix’s Dirty Daddy Tribute special
Saget’s contributions continue to resonate, particularly through Full House reruns and the charitable contributions inspired by his advocacy work.
Final Thoughts
Bob Saget’s career trajectory highlights versatility, resilience, and relentless creativity. From his roots in film school to his dual personas as a family-friendly star and raunchy comedian, Saget entertained millions and left an indelible mark on comedy and television. His Bob Saget net worth of $50 million reflects not just financial success but also his legacy as a multifaceted talent who triumphed in multiple spheres of the entertainment industry.
