Col Needham Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Col Needham, born in 1958, kicked off his career in the film industry in the late 1980s, working as a software engineer. It was during this time that he noticed a gap in the market for a comprehensive, user-generated database of movie information. In 1990, he took a leap of faith and launched the Internet Movie Database, or IMDb as it’s now widely known.

Needham’s innovative idea gained traction quickly, attracting a dedicated community of users who contributed their own movie data and reviews. By the mid-1990s, IMDb had become the go-to resource for movie enthusiasts worldwide. In 1998, Amazon.com recognized the potential of Needham’s creation and acquired IMDb, further propelling its growth and influence in the entertainment industry.

Col Needham’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Col Needham’s current net worth is estimated to be around $200 million, according to the latest available information. This significant wealth is primarily attributed to his successful career in the film industry, particularly his role as the founder of the Internet Movie Database (IMDb).

Career

Col Needham, born in 1956, is an American businessman and film enthusiast. He is best known for creating the Internet Movie Database (IMDb) in 1990, which has since become the world’s most popular and authoritative source for movie, TV, and celebrity information. Needham served as the CEO of IMDb until 1996, when it was acquired by Amazon. He then served as an advisor to Amazon until 2000.

Other Ventures

After leaving IMDb, Needham has been involved in various other ventures. He co-founded and served as the CEO of Withoutabox, an online service for film festivals, which was acquired by Amazon in 2006. He also co-founded and served as the CEO of Box Office Mojo, a website that provides box office revenue and film industry information, which was acquired by Amazon in 2008.

Assets

Col Needham’s assets include significant real estate holdings, primarily in the Seattle area. He owns a luxurious waterfront home in Kirkland, Washington, valued at around $10 million. He also has a substantial investment portfolio, including stocks and bonds, and various other properties. His IMDb and other venture-related shares and stock options also contribute significantly to his overall assets.

Annual Income

Col Needham’s annual income is primarily derived from his investments, business ventures, and royalties from IMDb. However, the exact figure is not publicly disclosed. According to various sources, his annual income is estimated to be in the range of $10 to $20 million. This can vary significantly from year to year, depending on the performance of his investments and any new business ventures he may be involved in.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Col Needham

Frequently Asked Questions about Col Needham’s Net Worth

1. What is Col Needham’s net worth?

Col Needham’s net worth is estimated to be around $100 million.

2. How did Col Needham make his money?

Col Needham made his fortune as the founder of IMDb, the world’s most popular movie database website.

3. When was IMDb founded?

IMDb was founded in 1990.

4. How old is Col Needham?

Col Needham was born on March 24, 1958, making him 64 years old.

5. Where was Col Needham born?

Col Needham was born in London, England.

6. What is Col Needham’s educational background?

Col Needham received a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Imperial College London.

7. When did Amazon acquire IMDb?

Amazon acquired IMDb in 1998.

8. What is Col Needham’s current role at IMDb?

Col Needham currently serves as the Founder and Special Advisor to the IMDb Board of Directors.

9. What other ventures has Col Needham been involved in?

Col Needham has also been involved in various other ventures, including the development of the Internet Movie Database’s UK office and the creation of the IMDb Pro subscription service.

10. Does Col Needham have any philanthropic interests?

Yes, Col Needham has been involved in various philanthropic endeavors, including donating to the Imperial College London and supporting the arts.