The late Phil Hartman was a multi-talented comedian, actor, and voice artist, best known for his work on Saturday Night Live, NewsRadio, and The Simpsons.
With a career spanning nearly three decades, he built a solid financial portfolio.
But how much did he actually earn, and what happened to his wealth? Let’s dive into the details.
Phil Hartman Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Philip Edward Hartmann |
| Popular Name | Phil Hartman |
| Birth Date | September 24, 1948 |
| Age | 49 (Died May 28, 1998) |
| Birthplace | Brantford, Ontario, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian-American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Education | California State University, Northridge |
| Marital Status | Married (3 times) |
| Spouse | Brynn Hartman (m. 1987–1998), Lisa Strain (m. 1982–1985), Gretchen Lewis (m. 1970–1972) |
| Children | Birgen Anika Hartman, Sean Edward Hartman |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | 7 |
| Parents | Rupert Hartmann (father), Doris Hartmann (mother) |
| Height | 1.77 m |
| Net Worth | $3 million (estimated value at time of death, adjusted for inflation) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Voice Acting, Writing, Graphic Design |
What is the Net Worth of Phil Hartman in 2025?
Although Phil Hartman’s net worth at the time of his passing in 1998 was approximately $3 million, adjusted for inflation, his estate would be worth significantly more today. Most of his wealth came from acting, television appearances, and voice-over work. Unlike modern actors who continue earning royalties long after their careers, Hartman’s financial assets were distributed posthumously.
For comparison, here are some of his industry peers and related figures:
- Jon Lovitz
- Mike Myers
- Dana Carvey
- Paul Reubens
- Stephen Root
- Chris Farley
- Adam Sandler
- Dan Aykroyd
- Bill Murray
- Lorne Michaels
For more about the highest-paid entertainers, check out this list of Hollywood’s wealthiest stars.
Phil Hartman Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Did He Earn During His Career?
Phil Hartman made a name for himself through Saturday Night Live (SNL), where he spent eight seasons from 1986 to 1994. His ability to play multiple roles earned him the nickname “Glue” among castmates. He also voiced Troy McClure and Lionel Hutz on The Simpsons, adding to his revenue streams.
Beyond television, Hartman worked in graphic design, creating album covers for famous bands like Steely Dan and America. His financial portfolio was well-rounded, combining entertainment and design income.
What Was His Salary on NewsRadio and Other TV Shows?
One of his most lucrative roles was playing Bill McNeal on the NBC sitcom NewsRadio. At the peak of his career, he was earning around $50,000 per episode, bringing his total earnings from the show to roughly $3.75 million over 75 episodes.
His salary from SNL and The Simpsons was more modest in comparison, though he remained a sought-after performer. Despite these earnings, Hartman’s estate was largely tied to his real estate and asset holdings.
How Did He Manage His Wealth and Finances?
Unlike many Hollywood stars, Phil Hartman was known for prudent financial management. He invested in real estate, with his primary asset being his $1.23 million home in California.
His wealth was not spent lavishly, but he ensured financial security for his children. His estate planning included structured asset distribution rather than immediate large payouts.
What Happened to His Estate After His Passing?
Following his tragic death, Hartman’s estate was valued at $1.23 million, mostly tied to his home. His children, Sean and Birgen, inherited his wealth in structured installments.
Since his passing, some of his former roles, especially Troy McClure, remain iconic. However, unlike other celebrities who earn substantial posthumous royalties, his estate does not generate significant ongoing revenue.
How Did His Work in Graphic Design Contribute to His Finances?
Before his acting career, Phil Hartman worked as a graphic designer, creating artwork for musicians like Poco and Crosby, Stills & Nash. This additional income stream contributed to his financial stability before he transitioned into entertainment full-time.
Though this work was not his primary income, it gave him a financial cushion in his early years and highlighted his diverse talents.
What Are His Lasting Financial Contributions and Legacy?
Hartman’s influence continues today through reruns of The Simpsons, SNL, and NewsRadio. He was posthumously awarded stars on both the Canada Walk of Fame (2012) and Hollywood Walk of Fame (2014).
His comedy and acting career have inspired many comedians, and though his financial impact isn’t as prominent as some peers, his legacy remains invaluable to the entertainment industry.
Conclusion
While Phil Hartman’s net worth was estimated at $3 million at the time of his passing, his financial legacy extends beyond just numbers. His work in comedy, acting, and design left a lasting imprint.
If you enjoyed learning about his financial journey, feel free to explore more celebrity financial insights on Pennbookcenter.com.
