Bret Easton Ellis burst onto the literary scene in the late 1980s, his debut novel “Less Than Zero” published when he was just 21 years old. This controversial tale of wealthy, disaffected youth in Los Angeles instantly catapulted him to fame, landing on The New York Times bestseller list and being adapted into a major motion picture.

Ellis’ rise to prominence was further solidified with his second novel, “The Rules of Attraction,” which delved into the hedonistic lifestyle of college students. This work, too, was met with both critical acclaim and controversy, further cementing Ellis’ reputation as a provocative and influential voice in American literature.

Bret Easton Ellis’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Bret Easton Ellis’s net worth is estimated to be around $16 million, according to the latest available information. This figure is a reflection of his successful career as a novelist and screenwriter.

Career

Bret Easton Ellis began his career in the late 1980s with his debut novel, “Less Than Zero,” which became a bestseller and was later adapted into a film. He has since written several critically acclaimed novels, including “American Psycho” and “The Rules of Attraction,” and has worked as a screenwriter for films like “The Informers” and “The Canyons.”

Other Ventures

In addition to his writing career, Ellis has also ventured into podcasting. He co-hosts the popular literary podcast “The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast,” where he interviews authors, actors, and other public figures. He has also dabbled in filmmaking, directing the 2007 documentary “The Virgin Suicides: A Personal History of American Suicide.”

Assets

Ellis owns a number of properties, including a home in Los Angeles and an apartment in New York City. He also has a significant collection of art, including works by artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol. His literary works are among his most valuable assets, with his books having sold millions of copies worldwide.

Annual Income

Ellis’s annual income is estimated to be around $1 million. This includes earnings from book sales, film royalties, and his podcast. His income can vary from year to year depending on the success of his projects and the size of his advances for new books.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Bret Easton Ellis

How much is Bret Easton Ellis’ net worth?

Bret Easton Ellis’ net worth is estimated to be around $16 million.

What is Bret Easton Ellis’ primary source of income?

Bret Easton Ellis’ primary source of income is his career as a novelist and screenwriter. He has written several critically acclaimed and commercially successful books, including “Less Than Zero” and “American Psycho.” He has also worked on several film and television projects.

How many books has Bret Easton Ellis written?

Bret Easton Ellis has written a total of 11 novels, including “Less Than Zero,” “The Rules of Attraction,” “American Psycho,” and “Imperial Bedrooms.” He has also written a collection of short stories and a non-fiction book.

What is Bret Easton Ellis’ most famous book?

Bret Easton Ellis’ most famous book is “American Psycho,” which was published in 1991. The novel gained significant attention and controversy for its graphic and violent content, and was adapted into a successful film in 2000.

What inspired Bret Easton Ellis to become a writer?

Bret Easton Ellis has cited several influences that inspired him to become a writer, including the works of F. Scott Fitzgerald, J.D. Salinger, and Joan Didion. He has also mentioned that his experiences growing up in Los Angeles played a significant role in shaping his writing.

What is the target audience for Bret Easton Ellis’ books?

Bret Easton Ellis’ books are typically targeted towards adult audiences, with themes and content that may not be suitable for younger readers. His work often explores dark and provocative subjects, such as violence, sex, and consumer culture.

Has Bret Easton Ellis won any awards for his writing?

Yes, Bret Easton Ellis has won several awards for his writing, including the PEN/Hemingway Award for “Less Than Zero” and the Time Magazine Best Book of the Year award for “American Psycho.” He has also been nominated for several other prestigious awards, such as the National Book Critics Circle Award.

What is Bret Easton Ellis’ stance on censorship?

Bret Easton Ellis has been a vocal critic of censorship and has spoken out against attempts to ban or censor his books. He believes that writers should have the freedom to explore controversial and provocative subjects in their work, without fear of censorship or censorship.

What is Bret Easton Ellis’ next project?

Bret Easton Ellis’ most recent novel, “The Shards,” was published in 2021. As of now, there is no official announcement about his next project.

What is Bret Easton Ellis’ opinion on the film adaptations of his books?

Bret Easton Ellis has had mixed opinions on the film adaptations of his books. He has praised some adaptations, such as the film version of “American Psycho,” while criticizing others, such as the television series “The Rules of Attraction.” He has also been involved in the development of some adaptations, serving as a producer or writer on projects such as the television series “American Psycho” and the film “The Canyons.”