MoNique has captivated audiences for years with her sharp comedic timing and powerful acting performances. From her breakthrough role in The Parkers to winning an Academy Award for Precious, MoNique’s career has seen both significant highs and setbacks.
In this article, we delve into MoNique net worth, her career earnings, and the financial obstacles she’s faced along the way.
By exploring her wealth, salary, and financial overview, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how the actress navigated the entertainment industry to build her fortune.
MoNique Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Monique Angela Imes |
| Popular Name | Mo’Nique |
| Birth Date | December 11, 1967 |
| Age | 57 years old (as of March 13, 2025) |
| Birthplace | Woodlawn, Baltimore County, Maryland, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | Graduated from Milford Mill High School (1985), Broadcasting Institute of Maryland (1987) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Sidney Hicks (married in 2006) |
| Children | Shalon Jackson, Jonathan Hicks, David Hicks, Mark Jackson, Jr. |
| Dating | Sidney Hicks (current spouse) |
| Siblings | 3 (Gerald, Millicent, and Steven) |
| Parents | Alice Imes (mother, engineer), Steven Imes Jr. (father, drug counselor) |
| Height (meters) | 5 ft 6½ in (1.69 m) |
| Net Worth | $6 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Comedy, Television Hosting |
What is the Net Worth of MoNique in 2025?
MoNique’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $6 million. This is a significant figure, considering her career’s ups and downs, including notable struggles with the IRS and disputes with industry heavyweights like Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey.
Compared to her peers, MoNique’s net worth is modest, especially when you consider the massive earnings of other comedians and actors such as Dave Chappelle and Amy Schumer.
Her net worth may not reach the figures of some of her contemporaries, but it’s impressive given the obstacles she’s faced in Hollywood.
Some of her notable peers in the industry include:
- Dave Chappelle
- Amy Schumer
- Chris Rock
- Kevin Hart
- Tyler Perry
- Oprah Winfrey
- Martin Lawrence
- Whoopi Goldberg
- Jerry Seinfeld
- Ricky Gervais
For those interested in the financial success of top entertainers, check out this richest celebrities list.
MoNique Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
Early Career and Comedy Beginnings
MoNique’s rise to fame started with her breakthrough in stand-up comedy. Her raw talent and fearless humor quickly earned her spots on prestigious platforms like Def Comedy Jam and Showtime at the Apollo. Comedy became MoNique’s initial source of income and financial foundation.
As a rising comedian, she toured the country, gaining more recognition and building her wealth. Her comedy specials, like MoNique: One Night Stand, further boosted her earnings. Over time, MoNique transitioned into acting, which became another significant source of income for her.
Breakthrough Role in The Parkers
MoNique’s financial success hit new heights when she starred in The Parkers from 1999 to 2004. As the lead on this popular sitcom, she earned $55,000 per episode in the final season, amounting to over $1 million that year. The show, which gained a dedicated fan base, played a pivotal role in propelling her career forward. Its success also contributed significantly to her financial situation.
Acting and TV Hosting
After The Parkers, MoNique continued to thrive in both television and film. She starred in several films, including Precious (2009), for which she received critical acclaim and won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Despite earning only $50,000 for Precious, this role opened doors to other opportunities in both acting and hosting.
Additionally, she hosted her own late-night talk show, The MoNique Show, from 2009 to 2011. Hosting on platforms like VH1 and BET added to her growing wealth, though not all her ventures were financially lucrative, as seen with her controversial Netflix dispute.
Financial Setbacks and IRS Issues
MoNique’s career wasn’t without its financial challenges. She faced IRS tax issues and was hit with liens for unpaid taxes from 2013 and 2014, totaling over $600,000. While this caused some financial strain, she managed to recover, largely thanks to her Vegas residency.
The controversy surrounding her refusal to promote Precious also played a role in her financial difficulties. She claimed that being blacklisted by influential figures like Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey cost her millions of dollars in potential earnings.
Vegas Residency and Financial Recovery
In 2019, MoNique found financial stability by taking on a Vegas residency. The show, MoNique Does Vegas, was a significant financial success, helping to erase much of her previous debt. It was a game-changer for her career, both financially and professionally.
Her continued success in comedy, acting, and new projects like The Deliverance (2024) shows that MoNique is back on track, rebuilding her finances.
Conclusion
MoNique’s journey through the entertainment industry is an inspiring one. Despite setbacks, she has navigated the complexities of wealth, career, and personal struggles to regain her place in the spotlight. For more updates on celebrity finances, visit Pennbookcenter.com. Leave a comment or share the article to let us know your thoughts!
