Don Knotts remains one of the most beloved comedic actors in television history.
Best known for his portrayal of Barney Fife on The Andy Griffith Show and his role as Ralph Furley on Three’s Company, his financial journey is just as interesting as his acting career.
This article will explore Don Knotts’ net worth, salary details, and the financial landscape that supported his long career.
From the early days of his sitcom fame to his later film projects, we’ll also compare his earnings with fellow stars.
Don Knotts Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Jesse John Knotts |
| Popular Name | Don Knotts |
| Birth Date | July 21, 1924 |
| Age | 81 (Died on February 24, 2006) |
| Birthplace | Morgantown, West Virginia, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | English descent |
| Education | West Virginia University (Degree in Education) |
| Marital Status | Married three times |
| Spouse | Frances Yarborough (m. 2002–2006), Loralee Czuchna (m. 1974–1983), Kathryn Metz (m. 1947–1964) |
| Children | Karen Knotts, Thomas Knotts |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Two brothers |
| Parents | Father: Alcoholic farmer with schizophrenia; Mother: Boarding house operator |
| Height (m) | 1.71 meters |
| Net Worth | $3 million (at time of death in 2006) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, TV shows, films |
What is the Net Worth Of Don Knotts in 2025?
Don Knotts’ net worth at the time of his death in 2006 was estimated at $3 million. While this might seem modest compared to some Hollywood stars, his financial legacy continues to resonate due to his long and successful career in both television and film. With roles like Barney Fife on The Andy Griffith Show and Ralph Furley on Three’s Company, Don Knotts carved a niche in classic sitcom history.
Compared to his contemporaries, Don’s wealth is somewhat smaller than figures like Andy Griffith, who had a larger stake in the show’s backend earnings. Nevertheless, Don Knotts’ wealth came from a variety of sources, including TV royalties, film roles, and later voice acting, such as in Chicken Little.
Related famous personalities:
- Andy Griffith
- Jim Nabors
- Sherman Hemsley
- John Ritter
- Norman Lear
- Bob Denver
- Don Rickles
- Lucille Ball
- Jerry Lewis
- Jackie Gleason
If you want to learn more about the wealth of famous stars, check out this article on the top richest celebrities for a detailed look at how other TV and film icons have accumulated wealth.
Don Knotts Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Did He Earn His Wealth?
Don Knotts made his fortune primarily through his acting career, which spanned television and films. His early career on The Andy Griffith Show marked a turning point, where he first gained national recognition for playing Barney Fife, the bumbling but lovable deputy sheriff. This role was the foundation of his career, earning him a total of five Primetime Emmys over the years.
His salary from the show was initially modest—$1,250 per episode during the second season. This was later seen as a low rate, especially after the show became a huge success. Despite the low pay, Don’s financial journey evolved as the popularity of his character helped him secure more opportunities in Hollywood.
Don Knotts’ wealth also grew with his involvement in movies. His most notable film role was in The Incredible Mr. Limpet (1964), a family-friendly hit where he voiced the title character. This success led to a contract with Universal Studios, where he appeared in films like The Reluctant Astronaut (1967) and The Shakiest Gun in the West (1968). Although his film earnings weren’t as astronomical as his TV career, they certainly added to his overall wealth.
What Was His Salary on The Andy Griffith Show?
Don Knotts’ salary on The Andy Griffith Show started at $1,250 per episode, which translated to about $35,000 per season. This was significantly lower than what other sitcom stars were making during the same time. Over time, Don requested better pay and more significant terms, but his attempts to get a piece of the show’s backend profits were denied by producers. As his popularity surged, Don left the show in the middle of its run to pursue a film career, but his relationship with Andy Griffith remained strong.
Despite the initial pay disparity, Don’s role in the series cemented his place in TV history. His earnings from the show became a source of debate after he departed for a film contract with Universal Studios, which saw more lucrative compensation for his subsequent roles.
How Did He Film Career Affect His Finances?
Don Knotts’ foray into films helped diversify his earnings. After his TV success, he secured a five-film deal with Universal Studios, and his box-office hits included The Reluctant Astronaut (1967) and The Shakiest Gun in the West (1968). These films solidified Don’s image as a family-friendly comedian.
His financial situation was further buoyed by voice acting roles, such as his part in Disney’s Chicken Little (2005), where he voiced a character, adding another stream of income before his passing.
How Did He Manage His Finances Over Time?
Don Knotts’ finances appeared to be relatively stable, though he was known to have struggled with personal issues such as depression, hypochondria, and anxiety. He wasn’t known for extravagant spending, and much of his wealth came from his consistent work in TV and film.
Real estate was another area where Don managed his wealth. In 1983, he purchased a condo in Beverly Hills for $338,170. After his death, the estate sold the condo for $1.23 million in 2007, showing a significant return on investment.
Though his financial decisions didn’t always align with his Hollywood peers, Don’s steady career and strategic roles helped him build a modest but enduring legacy.
What Was His Financial Legacy in Hollywood?
While his net worth may not be as massive as some of his peers, Don Knotts left a lasting imprint on the entertainment industry. He not only entertained millions of fans across decades, but his role in shaping television salary negotiations was important. His departure from The Andy Griffith Show to pursue other opportunities, despite financial challenges, was seen as a milestone in how TV actors could gain control over their contracts and salaries.
Don’s career is an example of how consistent work, even in modestly paid roles, can lead to lasting financial success. His influence continues to be felt through the legacy of his iconic roles, which still bring in residual income.
Conclusion
Don Knotts’ wealth and financial journey are a testament to his hard work and dedication to entertainment.
Though his salary and wealth may not compare to some of Hollywood’s highest earners, his iconic roles on television and film have left a lasting legacy.
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