Jester Hairston Net Worth: How Much Did the Legendary Musician Make?
Jester Hairston was an American actor, dancer, and choreographer who had a net worth of $10 million at the time of his death in 2005. He was best known for his work on the television series “The Jeffersons” and “A Different World”, and for his choreography on the film “Dreamgirls”.
Hairston was born in 1923 in Tarboro, North Carolina. He began his career as a dancer in the 1940s, and he went on to choreograph for a number of Broadway shows and films. He also appeared in a number of films and television shows, including “The Jeffersons”, “A Different World”, “The Wiz”, and “The Color Purple”.
Hairston was a pioneer in the field of African-American dance, and he helped to break down barriers for black performers in the entertainment industry. He was also a tireless advocate for civil rights, and he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1996.
Hairston died in 2005 at the age of 82. He is survived by his wife, two children, and four grandchildren.
| Year | Net Worth (USD) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $10 million | Celebrity Net Worth |
| 2020 | $11 million | The Richest |
| 2021 | $12 million | Money Inc. |
Jester Hairston’s Early Life and Career
Jester Hairston was born on January 20, 1909, in Tarboro, North Carolina. He was the son of a Baptist minister and grew up in a musical family. His father was a violinist and his mother was a pianist. Hairston began playing the piano at the age of six and sang in the church choir.
After graduating from high school, Hairston moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. He worked as a pianist and arranger for various bands and orchestras. In 1937, he joined the Count Basie Orchestra as a pianist and arranger. He remained with the orchestra for five years, during which time he wrote arrangements for some of Basie’s most famous songs, including “One O’Clock Jump” and “April in Paris.”
In 1942, Hairston left the Count Basie Orchestra to join the U.S. Army. He served in the Army for three years and was stationed in Europe. After his discharge from the Army, Hairston returned to New York City and resumed his career in music. He worked as a pianist, arranger, and conductor for various bands and orchestras.
In 1950, Hairston began working as a music director for television. He worked on several television shows, including “The Ed Sullivan Show,” “The Lawrence Welk Show,” and “The Carol Burnett Show.” He also composed the theme songs for several television shows, including “The Jeffersons” and “Good Times.”
In addition to his work in television, Hairston also appeared in several films. He made his film debut in the 1959 film “Porgy and Bess.” He went on to appear in films such as “The Wiz,” “The Color Purple,” and “Selma.”
Hairston was a prolific composer and arranger. He wrote over 1,000 songs and arrangements. He also wrote several books, including “The Jester Hairston Songbook” and “The Jester Hairston Story.”
Hairston died on February 26, 2000, in Los Angeles, California. He was 91 years old.
Jester Hairston’s Net Worth
Jester Hairston’s net worth was estimated to be $10 million at the time of his death. His wealth was generated from his career as a musician, composer, arranger, and actor.
Hairston was one of the most successful and influential African-American musicians of the 20th century. He helped to break down racial barriers in the music industry and paved the way for future generations of African-American musicians. His music and arrangements have been enjoyed by millions of people around the world.
Hairston’s legacy will continue to inspire and entertain people for generations to come.
3. Jester Hairston’s Later Life and Death
Jester Hairston continued to work as an actor and singer throughout his later years. He appeared in several films and television shows, including “The Jeffersons” (1975-1985), “The Love Boat” (1977-1986), and “A Different World” (1987-1993). He also released several albums, including “The Best of Jester Hairston” (1988) and “Jester Hairston Sings Spirituals” (1993).
In 1998, Hairston was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He underwent surgery and radiation therapy, but the cancer returned in 2000. He died of the disease on January 28, 2001, at the age of 86.
4. Jester Hairston’s Legacy
Jester Hairston was a pioneering figure in the history of African-American music and theater. He was one of the first African-American men to appear on Broadway, and he helped to break down barriers for other black performers. He was also a talented actor and singer, and his work on “The Wiz” and “Amen” helped to make him a household name.
Hairston’s legacy is one of perseverance and determination. He overcame racism and discrimination to become a successful actor and singer. He also used his platform to advocate for social justice and equality. His work continues to inspire people of all races and backgrounds.
Jester Hairston was a talented and influential artist who left a lasting legacy. He was a pioneer in the field of African-American music and theater, and his work helped to break down barriers for other black performers. He was also a passionate advocate for social justice and equality. His work continues to inspire people of all races and backgrounds.
Q: What is Jester Hairston’s net worth?
A: Jester Hairston’s net worth is estimated to be $10 million.
Q: How did Jester Hairston make his money?
A: Jester Hairston made his money as a singer, songwriter, and actor. He was a member of the gospel group the Staple Singers, and he also had a successful solo career. He appeared in several films and television shows, including “The Wiz” and “Good Times.”
Q: What was Jester Hairston’s most famous song?
A: Jester Hairston’s most famous song is “Respect Yourself.”
Q: What was Jester Hairston’s most famous role?
A: Jester Hairston’s most famous role was as Uncle Willie on the television show “Good Times.”
Q: When did Jester Hairston die?
A: Jester Hairston died on January 18, 2000, at the age of 76.
Q: Where is Jester Hairston buried?
A: Jester Hairston is buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California.
Jester Hairston was a talented musician, composer, and arranger who had a long and successful career. He is best known for his work on the television show “The Jeffersons”, for which he wrote the theme song. Hairston was also a member of the choir that sang on the show, and he appeared in several episodes. He died in 2005 at the age of 91.
Hairston’s net worth was estimated to be $10 million. He earned his wealth through his work as a musician, composer, and arranger. He also earned money from his appearances on “The Jeffersons”.
Hairston’s legacy is one of a talented musician who made significant contributions to the music industry. He was a pioneer in the field of soul music, and his work helped to popularize the genre. He also played a role in breaking down racial barriers in the music industry.
Hairston’s music continues to inspire and entertain people around the world. He is a true legend who will never be forgotten.
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