What was Norm Macdonald’s Net Worth and Salary?
Norm Macdonald, the Canadian-born actor, writer, and stand-up comedian, passed away on September 14, 2021, at the age of 61 after a private battle with cancer. He was worth an estimated $2.5 million at the time of his death.
Norm was best known for his time on “Saturday Night Live,” where he was a regular cast member and Weekend Update host. He was widely considered one of the best stand-up comedians of all time, famous for his deadpan comedic style, which became increasingly minimalistic over the years.
Early Life of Norman Gene Macdonald
Norman Gene Macdonald was born on October 17th, 1959 in Quebec City, Canada. He was raised alongside two brothers by parents who were both teachers. Norm attended high schools in Quebec and Ottawa. His brother Neil later became a journalist with CBC News.
Norm’s father Percy served with the Canadian Armed Forces during World War II and helped to liberate the Netherlands.
Norm Macdonald’s Career Highlights
Norm Macdonald started his career as a stand-up comedian in Ottawa before becoming one of the top comics in Canada. He appeared on “Star Search” in 1990 and later worked as a writer on the sitcom “Roseanne.” In 1993, he joined the cast of “Saturday Night Live,” where he became known for his impressions of celebrities and hosting the controversial “Weekend Update” segment.
After leaving “SNL” in 1998, Macdonald starred in and co-wrote the film “Dirty Work,” which received negative reviews. He then voiced the character of Lucky the Dog in “Dr. Dolittle” and appeared on shows like “My Name Is Earl” and “Celebrity Jeopardy.” He also started hosting his own talk show, “Norm Macdonald Has a Show,” on Netflix in 2018.
Norm Macdonald’s Work as a Voice Actor and Spokesperson
In 2006, Norm Macdonald lent his voice to commercials for Bell Mobility, a Canadian telecommunications company. He continued his work as a voice actor in 2007 and 2008, appearing in a number of AT&T commercials. In 2012, Macdonald became a spokesperson for Safe Auto Insurance Company.
Three years later, in 2015, Macdonald took on a unique role as he portrayed Colonel Sanders in a number of KFC commercials.
Norm Macdonald’s Marriage and Divorce
In 1990, Norm Macdonald tied the knot with Connie Macdonald. The couple welcomed a child in 1993. However, their marriage did not last, and they went through a divorce that was finalized by 1999.
Norm Macdonald’s Gambling Addiction
Norm Macdonald had a serious gambling addiction during his time on “Saturday Night Live.” He would reportedly leave filming and go to Atlantic City to gamble late into the night. His addiction reached its peak when he moved into a building with a casino in the lobby. He only managed to save around $200,000 from his “Saturday Night Live” salary, despite earning millions. Macdonald’s gambling addiction started after winning a six-figure sum at a craps table, which led him to continue gambling. He lost essentially all the money he had on three separate occasions while gambling, once losing $400,000. Despite this, he was a skilled poker player, placing 20th out of 827 contestants at the No-Limit Texas Hold ’em event at the 2007 World Series of Poker.
Norm Macdonald’s Santa Monica Condo on the Market for $2.2 Million
Norm Macdonald listed his Santa Monica condo in 2015 for $2.2 million. The apartment includes 1,630 square feet of living space with ocean views and is located just two blocks away from the popular Santa Monica beach. Macdonald had originally purchased the property for $1.75 million in 2008.
Reports suggest that around the same time, Macdonald had also purchased another property in Playa Vista for $750,000.
