Have you ever wondered how much the founder of IMDb is worth today?
Col Needham net worth has been a topic of curiosity for many, especially after IMDb’s acquisition by Amazon.
But what really contributed to his financial success?
From his salary as CEO to the impact of Amazon’s deal, let’s break down his wealth and financial journey.
Col Needham Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Colin Needham |
| Popular Name | Col Needham |
| Birth Date | January 26, 1967 |
| Age | 58 (as of 02/25/2025) |
| Birthplace | Denton, Lancashire, England |
| Nationality | English |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | University of Leeds, Audenshaw School, Clarendon Sixth Form College |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Karen Gaskin |
| Children | Twin daughters |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | N/A |
| Height | 1.80 meters |
| Net Worth | $50 million (estimated) |
| Source of Wealth | IMDb, Amazon acquisition |
What is the Net Worth of Col Needham in 2025?
As of 2025, Col Needham’s net worth is estimated at $50 million. His wealth primarily stems from IMDb, the world’s largest online movie database, which he founded in 1990.
The platform was later acquired by Amazon in 1998, significantly boosting his financial standing.
Compared to other tech entrepreneurs in the entertainment industry, Needham’s fortune is substantial but modest.
Many tech founders who sold their companies to major corporations have amassed significantly larger fortunes, but Needham remains financially secure.
Related Figures in Entertainment & Tech
- IMDb
- Amazon
- Hewlett-Packard
- Webby Awards
- University of Leeds
For more insights on the wealthiest public figures, check out this list of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs.
Col Needham Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Does He Make Money?
Col Needham’s primary source of income has been IMDb, the platform he developed from a personal film database into a global movie information hub.
Initially, IMDb was a user-contributed bulletin board, but as it grew in popularity, it attracted advertising revenue and partnerships with film studios.
After Amazon acquired IMDb in 1998, Needham became a full-time executive at the company. His financial growth largely came from this acquisition, though his exact earnings from the deal remain undisclosed.
What Was His Salary as IMDb CEO?
While Needham’s exact salary as IMDb’s CEO has not been publicly disclosed, it is known that he transitioned from a Hewlett-Packard engineer to a well-compensated tech executive. By 1996, IMDb had secured enough revenue for him to leave HP and work on IMDb full-time.
Post-Amazon acquisition, he continued leading IMDb as CEO for over two decades. In 2025, Needham stepped down as CEO and moved into an Executive Chairman role. It is unclear whether his compensation changed significantly after this transition.
How Has IMDb Contributed to His Financial Success?
IMDb played a central role in building Needham’s fortune. The website’s revenue primarily comes from:
- Advertising campaigns from major film studios
- IMDbPro subscriptions, a paid service for industry professionals
- Affiliate partnerships with streaming services like Amazon Prime Video
His decision to remove IMDb’s message boards in 2017 was a controversial move, but it reflected the platform’s shift towards a more controlled, revenue-focused model.
Did the Amazon Acquisition Impact His Wealth?
Amazon’s acquisition of IMDb in 1998 was a pivotal financial moment for Needham. While the exact terms of the deal remain private, it undoubtedly increased his wealth.
Needham continued to lead IMDb under Amazon’s ownership, ensuring its expansion into film streaming, industry analytics, and premium subscriptions. His role as CEO under Amazon likely came with a competitive salary and stock options.
What Other Financial Decisions Has He Made?
Beyond IMDb, Needham has kept a low profile when it comes to personal investments. However, some key aspects of his financial strategy include:
- Real Estate: He resides in Filton, England, which suggests real estate investments could be part of his portfolio.
- Tech Investments: Given his background in computer science, it’s possible that he has invested in tech startups or media ventures.
- Philanthropy: While there is no public information on large-scale donations, Needham may support film preservation and education initiatives.
What Is His Financial Status Today?
In 2025, Needham remains financially secure with an estimated $50 million net worth. His transition to Executive Chairman of IMDb suggests he may have stepped back from active management while still benefiting from IMDb’s success.
As the entertainment industry evolves, it will be interesting to see how Needham’s legacy and financial influence continue. Will he invest in new tech ventures? Or will he remain focused on expanding IMDb’s reach? Only time will tell.
Conclusion
Col Needham’s financial journey showcases how a passion for movies turned into a multi-million-dollar empire. His role in shaping IMDb’s success and the impact of Amazon’s acquisition highlight his influence in the film and tech industries.
What are your thoughts on his wealth and career? Leave a comment, share this article, or explore more financial insights on Pennbook.
