Kerry Washington is more than just a successful actress; she is a businesswoman, producer, and advocate whose career choices have added significantly to her financial standing.
With an estimated $50 million net worth, Kerry has shown that success in Hollywood isn’t just about acting—but about strategy, vision, and being true to oneself.
Early Career and the Road to Financial Stability
Kerry Washington did not start earning millions of dollars at the beginning of her career. Like most actors, she began her acting journey with small roles in films and television shows. These early projects gave her valuable experience and also taught her patience and resilience.
Though the paychecks were modest at the time, Kerry worked very hard to develop her craft. This foundation became the stepping stone for the financial rewards that would come later in her career.
Breakthrough Earnings from Scandal
Kerry’s life changed when she played the role of Olivia Pope on the popular TV drama Scandal. The show was culturally significant, and Kerry became famous for her performance. She earned $250,000 per episode at the peak of the series, which added up to $4.5 million per season.
This role provided more than just financial; it also made her a household name. The visibility from Scandal opened doors to more lucrative roles both on and off screen.
Huge Paychecks for Premium Projects
Kerry became highly valued in the entertainment industry following her performance in Scandal. She appeared on high-profile shows like the Hulu series Little Fires Everywhere, where she reportedly earned $1.1 million per episode. This translated to almost $9 million for one season of work.
These premium paychecks are the result of her proven track record, acting skill, and the trust networks have placed in her to carry major productions.
Smart and Selective Brand Partnerships
Kerry Washington has added to her net worth through brand endorsements. She’s worked with major brands like Apple, Neutrogena, and Movado.
Her approach to partnerships has always been selective. She partners with brands that reflect her values and image, which makes these collaborations authentic. This not only raises her income but also strengthens her personal brand, leading to long-term prospects.
Creating Wealth behind the Camera
Beyond being an actress, Kerry is also a producer and director. Her production company, Simpson Street, has worked on several projects like Little Fires Everywhere, Unprisoned, and the Broadway play American Son.
Kerry gets a cut of the creative control and profits by working behind the scenes. This shows she understands the importance of ownership in building lasting wealth in Hollywood.
Real Estate and Long-Term Investments
Kerry has invested wisely in real estate with her husband, ex-NFL player Nnamdi Asomugha. They’ve purchased and sold luxury homes in choice locations, including a profitable sale of a Los Angeles property for nearly $800,000 more than they paid for it.
They also have homes in Beverly Hills and New York, valuable assets that appreciate over time. These investments give them financial security beyond the unpredictability of Hollywood work.
