Burt Sugarman’s name has long been synonymous with creativity, innovation, and television excellence. With a career spanning more than five decades, the acclaimed producer has built a $100 million fortune, shared with his wife, television host Mary Hart.
Known for his brilliance in producing timeless TV hits like The Midnight Special and The Richard Pryor Show, Sugarman’s journey from a young entrepreneur to one of Hollywood’s most respected figures is nothing short of remarkable.
Burt Sugarman Net Worth and His Television Empire
Burt Sugarman’s estimated net worth stands at $100 million, a reflection of his success in entertainment and smart investments. He made his fortune through television, film production, and a series of savvy real estate and corporate ventures.
Sugarman’s Net Worth Breakdown
| Source of Wealth | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| TV and Film Production | $35 million |
| Real Estate Holdings | $50 million |
| Business Investments | $10 million |
| Royalties and Other Assets | $5 million |
| Total Net Worth | $100 million |
Sugarman and his wife, Mary Hart, are often seen courtside at Los Angeles Dodgers games, symbolizing both their love for sports and their enduring partnership in life and business.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born Burton Roy Sugarman on January 4, 1939, in Los Angeles, California, Burt grew up in a family that owned a pharmacy. His teenage years were filled with adventure—he raced dirt bikes and even won a drag-racing championship in California.
After earning a finance degree from the University of Southern California, Sugarman ventured into the automobile business. By age 24, he was distributing luxury car brands like Maserati and Ghia across North America. But after retiring early, boredom pushed him toward Hollywood—an industry that would soon make him a millionaire.
His first production project, Dionne Warwick – Souled Out (1969), marked the beginning of a prolific television career. Burt’s determination and business acumen helped him transform from car dealer to television visionary in just a few years.
Legendary Career in TV and Film
Sugarman’s career is decorated with some of television’s most iconic productions. He produced and created shows that shaped American pop culture, proving his unmatched ability to identify what audiences wanted.
Some of his most memorable credits include:
- The Wizard of Odds (1973)
- Celebrity Sweepstakes (1974)
- The Richard Pryor Show (1977)
- The Newlywed Game (1988)
- The Midnight Special (1972–1981)
His variety show ‘The Midnight Special’ became a cultural phenomenon, offering live performances from music legends at a time when few outlets existed for such programming. Sugarman later released a video collection titled The Midnight Special—Legendary Performances, allowing fans to relive the magic.
In film, he produced hits like ‘Children of a Lesser God’ (1986), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture, and Extremities (1986), starring Farrah Fawcett.
By the 1980s, Sugarman also proved to be a savvy businessman, investing in media companies through The Giant Group, where he served as chairman. His acquisitions of firms like Reeves Entertainment and Media General further diversified his fortune.
Real Estate Fortune and Investments
Sugarman and Hart’s real estate portfolio alone is worth over $50 million. The couple has owned luxurious homes across Los Angeles and Montana, often setting records with their property deals.
Notable Burt Sugarman Real Estate Holdings
| Location | Approx. Value / Sale Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beverly Hills Mansion | Sold for $27 million | 11,000-square-foot estate |
| Ritz-Carlton Residence (Downtown LA) | Sold for $6.7 million | Bought in 2013 for $3.8 million |
| Sierra Towers (West Hollywood) | $8 million + $4.65 million | Record-breaking purchase |
| Yellowstone Club, Montana | $19–26 million | 160-acre Elk Horn Ranch listing |
The couple’s ability to buy, renovate, and sell high-value properties at the perfect time shows Sugarman’s business instincts extend far beyond television.
Personal Life
Burt Sugarman has been married three times, but his longest and most successful marriage is with Mary Hart, the longtime host of ‘Entertainment Tonight.’ The couple married in 1989 and welcomed their son, Alec Jay (AJ), in 1991.
They are known for their strong relationship and shared interests, from sports to philanthropy. Together, they have made appearances at charity events, fundraisers, and even at the World Series, where their smiling faces often draw as much attention as the players on the field.
Burt Sugarman Family Summary
| Name | Relation | Occupation |
|---|---|---|
| Mary Hart | Wife | TV Host and Former Miss America Finalist |
| Alec Jay Sugarman | Son | Policy Advisor |
| Carol Wayne | Ex-wife | Actress |
| Pauline Schur | Ex-wife | First Wife |
Their enduring love story continues to inspire many, showing that lasting partnerships can thrive even in the glitz and chaos of Hollywood.
Awards and Accomplishments
Burt Sugarman’s remarkable contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has received multiple prestigious nominations, including:
- Academy Award Nomination – Children of a Lesser God (1987)
- Primetime Emmy Nomination – The Switched-On Symphony (1970)
His creative influence continues to shape how producers approach television entertainment today. His ability to combine talent, timing, and business acumen has kept his name respected across generations.
