Bobby Lee is one of the most distinctive and beloved comedians in America, celebrated for his unfiltered humor, eccentric charm, and fearless stage presence. Over a career spanning more than two decades, Lee has become a household name through his television work, stand-up tours, and hit podcasts. Naturally, fans are curious about Bobby Lee net worth and how his career decisions have shaped his financial success.
What is Bobby Lee’s Net Worth?
As of 2025, Bobby Lee net worth is estimated to be between $10 million and $16 million. While some earlier estimates placed his wealth much lower, recent success in podcasting, live comedy tours, and acting roles have significantly increased his income. The wide range of figures is due to varying methods of calculation and the fact that Bobby’s finances are not publicly disclosed.
Early Life and Background
Bobby Lee was born Robert Young Lee Jr. on September 17, 1971, in San Diego, California, to Korean immigrant parents. Raised in Poway, he grew up in a household that valued hard work, as his family owned and operated clothing stores. Lee has often spoken about the challenges of balancing his Korean heritage with life in the United States, experiences that would later inspire his comedy.
Career Beginnings
Before making it big, Bobby worked various odd jobs, from coffee shops to retail. His comedy career began when he tried stand-up at open mic nights in Los Angeles. His offbeat style and fearlessness on stage quickly caught the attention of the local comedy scene, leading to more gigs and opening slots for established comedians.
Rise to Fame
Bobby’s big break came in 2001 when he joined the cast of MADtv. His unique comedic timing, coupled with unforgettable characters, earned him national attention. His work on the sketch comedy show was a major stepping stone, leading to acting roles in television and films. Lee’s appearances on late-night shows and podcasts further boosted his popularity.
Major Career Highlights
Some of the most notable moments in Bobby’s career include:
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Playing key roles in films like Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle, Pineapple Express, and The Dictator.
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Touring across the United States as a headlining comedian.
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Appearing in TV shows such as Splitting Up Together and Love.
These milestones have all contributed significantly to Bobby Lee net worth.
Podcasting Success
In recent years, podcasting has become a central pillar of Bobby’s career and income:
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TigerBelly – Launched in 2015 with Khalyla Kuhn, this comedic yet personal podcast has millions of listeners worldwide. The show earns revenue from YouTube ads, paid sponsorships, and merchandise sales.
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Bad Friends – Co-hosted with comedian Andrew Santino, this podcast has quickly become a fan favorite, securing lucrative ad deals and live show tours.
The success of these podcasts has had a major impact on Bobby Lee net worth, turning him into one of the more financially successful comedians in the digital era.
Other Ventures and Income Streams
Outside of his primary career avenues, Bobby has explored:
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Brand endorsements through his podcast platforms.
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Merchandise sales tied to his podcast and comedy brand.
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Investments in various ventures, though details remain largely private.
Bobby Lee’s Salary and Earnings
While Bobby’s exact salary figures are undisclosed, estimates suggest:
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Comedy tours can earn him $15,000 to $30,000 per performance.
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Television and movie roles can bring in between $50,000 and $150,000 per project.
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Podcast advertising can generate thousands of dollars per episode for shows with large audiences.
Combined, these earnings play a substantial role in growing Bobby Lee net worth year after year.
Real Estate and Assets
Bobby is known to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without flaunting excessive luxury. Reports suggest he owns property in Los Angeles, and while details of his real estate holdings are private, real estate appreciation in Southern California alone can add significant value to a celebrity’s portfolio.
Awards and Recognition
Although Bobby has not won high-profile awards, his contribution to comedy is recognized by peers and fans alike. His longevity in the industry and influence on younger comedians are considered achievements in their own right.
Personal Life and Relationships
Bobby has been open about his relationship with Khalyla Kuhn, his long-time partner and co-host on TigerBelly. He has also candidly discussed his struggles with addiction and mental health, earning him admiration for his honesty and resilience.
How Bobby Lee Built His Wealth
Bobby’s wealth comes from a blend of:
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Television work, especially MADtv.
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Steady income from acting roles in both films and series.
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Highly successful podcasts with consistent ad revenue.
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Nationwide and international comedy tours.
This diversified approach has been key to sustaining and growing Bobby Lee net worth.
Financial Challenges and Setbacks
Like many in entertainment, Bobby has faced career lulls and personal struggles. Times without steady acting work could have impacted his income, but the rise of podcasting allowed him to create a stable and scalable revenue stream.
Philanthropy and Giving Back
While he is not widely publicized for philanthropy, Bobby has participated in charity events and used his platform to promote social causes. Many of his contributions are done quietly, without seeking attention.
Bobby Lee Net Worth Compared to Other Comedians
When compared to fellow comedians, Bobby Lee net worth is higher than many peers who rely solely on stand-up. However, it is below top-tier comedy giants like Kevin Hart or Jerry Seinfeld. Among Asian-American comedians, he is one of the most financially successful, thanks to his adaptability in the ever-changing entertainment landscape.
Future Earnings Potential
Looking ahead, Bobby’s income potential remains strong:
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Continued podcast growth, both in listeners and ad rates.
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New acting roles in streaming and television projects.
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Expanded live comedy tours and potential international shows.
These factors suggest Bobby Lee net worth will continue climbing in the coming years.
Conclusion
Bobby Lee’s journey from open mic nights to becoming a multimillionaire entertainer is a testament to talent, resilience, and adaptability. His ability to transition from television to podcasting while maintaining a dedicated fan base has ensured his place in modern comedy. As his career evolves, there’s little doubt that Bobby Lee net worth will remain a point of admiration for both fans and fellow performers.
