Moe Howard was an iconic American actor and comedian, widely recognized as the leader of the legendary Three Stooges comedy troupe.
While his slapstick humor made him a household name, his financial success was equally impressive.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into Moe Howard’s net worth in 2025, his career earnings, and the wealth he accumulated over decades. We’ll also explore his financial legacy, lifestyle, and how his career shaped his income.
Keep reading to discover the full financial picture of one of Hollywood’s most memorable stars.
Moe Howard Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Moses Harry Horwitz |
| Popular Name | Moe Howard |
| Birth Date | June 19, 1897 |
| Age | 77 years old (Died May 4, 1975) |
| Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Jewish |
| Education | Dropped out of Erasmus Hall High School after two months |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Helen Schonberger (married in 1925) |
| Children | Joan Howard Maurer, Paul Howard |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Shemp Howard, Curly Howard, and other brothers |
| Parents | Solomon Horwitz (father), Jennie Horwitz (mother) |
| Height | 1.61 m |
| Net Worth | $10 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Comedy, and The Three Stooges |
What is the Net Worth of Moe Howard in 2025?
Moe Howard’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million at the time of his death in 1975, adjusted for inflation. As one of the founding members of the Three Stooges, his wealth came from acting, films, and ongoing royalties from the group’s massive popularity. Though he passed away decades ago, Moe’s wealth continues to grow due to the lasting influence of the Three Stooges’ media presence, including reruns, merchandise, and continued fan interest.
In comparison to other celebrities, Moe Howard’s financial standing aligns with other iconic entertainers who made their mark in the early-to-mid 20th century, particularly in comedy.
- Larry Fine
- Curly Howard
- Shemp Howard
- Joe Besser
- Joe DeRita
- The Three Stooges
- Charlie Chaplin
- Groucho Marx
- Buster Keaton
- Lucille Ball
If you want to know more about the richest stars, check out our article on richest celebrities.
Moe Howard Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
Early Career Earnings
Moe Howard began his career in the entertainment industry at a young age. Before joining the Three Stooges, he worked in a variety of roles, including small bits in films. His first exposure to showbiz came when he ran errands at Vitagraph Studios, which gave him a few early acting credits. Although these jobs weren’t lucrative, they helped him gain valuable experience in the entertainment world.
Transition to The Three Stooges
Moe’s big break came when he joined Ted Healy’s vaudeville act. Along with future Three Stooges co-stars, Larry Fine and his brother Shemp Howard, Moe performed in the comedy revue “A Night in Venice.” The team’s transition from live performances to the big screen was a crucial turning point in Moe Howard’s financial trajectory. By 1930, the group had their first film, “Soup to Nuts,” marking the beginning of a long-lasting relationship with Columbia Pictures.
As a member of the Three Stooges, Moe’s earnings skyrocketed. The group would go on to star in over 200 comedy shorts and several feature films, all of which generated substantial income. The Stooges were known for their slapstick humor, which became their trademark. Moe, as the leader of the group, commanded a significant portion of the income, alongside his co-stars.
Salary Through the Decades
Throughout the 1930s, 40s, and 50s, Moe Howard earned a substantial salary from both his film and television work. While specific salary figures aren’t publicly available, it is clear that the Three Stooges’ films were highly successful, and Moe’s role in the group made him a well-paid entertainer. In the later years, the group’s short films were sold for reruns on television, bringing additional income into Moe’s pockets.
However, Moe Howard wasn’t just a passive beneficiary of The Three Stooges’ success. He also took part in business dealings and decisions that influenced the group’s financial future. For instance, when Curly Howard left the group due to health problems, Moe helped manage the transition, ensuring the group stayed profitable with the addition of Shemp Howard and later, Joe Besser and Joe DeRita.
Financial Legacy
Though Moe Howard passed away in 1975, his legacy continued to generate income. With the rise of reruns and merchandise sales of The Three Stooges, Moe’s wealth lived on. The popularity of the Stooges only grew over time, and by the 1980s, Moe Howard, along with Larry and Curly, was posthumously honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Today, the Three Stooges continue to earn revenue from licensing deals, DVD sales, and streaming platforms. These earnings are often attributed to Moe Howard’s leadership and business acumen. His decision to keep the group together and continue performing even when health issues plagued the members was instrumental in the group’s long-lasting financial success.
Lifestyle and Spending Habits
Moe Howard’s lifestyle is often seen as modest compared to other Hollywood stars of his time. Known for his hard work and commitment to his craft, Moe didn’t live a flashy or extravagant lifestyle. However, his financial decisions ensured that he was comfortable throughout his life. Moe’s income was primarily spent on his family and securing his legacy.
In terms of personal life, Moe married Helen Schonberger in 1925, and together they had two children. His dedication to his family was evident in how he balanced his work commitments with time spent with loved ones. Moe’s wealth, while substantial, was also used to ensure that his family was taken care of after his passing.
Financial Challenges
Despite his success, Moe Howard also faced financial challenges. Like many entertainers of the time, the Three Stooges encountered several financial setbacks, particularly during the 1940s when contracts with Columbia Pictures were renegotiated. The group’s film-making output slowed down, and this affected their income. Moe’s resilience, however, helped them navigate these tough times. His determination to keep the group working even when financial hardships arose played a key role in maintaining their long-term wealth.
Conclusion
Moe Howard’s financial journey is a testament to his hard work, resilience, and dedication to his craft.
From his early roles in vaudeville to his leadership of The Three Stooges, Moe accumulated significant wealth that has lasted even after his passing.
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