Don Cornelius Net Worth (Updated 2025).

Don Cornelius, born in Chicago in 1936, began his career in the entertainment industry as a DJ at a local radio station. His smooth, charismatic voice and ability to connect with his audience quickly made him a popular figure in the city’s African American community. This led to an opportunity at a local television station, where he hosted a dance program called “A Black’s Tonight Show.”

Cornelius saw the potential for a national television show that would showcase the vibrant music and dance culture of the African American community. In 1971, he created “Soul Train,” a weekly dance and music program that would become a cultural phenomenon. The show featured the latest in soul, R&B, and funk music, and was hosted by Cornelius himself, who became known for his signature phrase, “You can’t beat the feeling of a Saturday night.”

Don Cornelius’ Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Don Cornelius’ current net worth is estimated to be around $300 million. This figure takes into account his successful career in television and his various business ventures.

Career

Don Cornelius, born in 1936, was an American television host, producer, and entrepreneur. He is best known for creating and hosting the dance television show “Soul Train” from 1971 to 1993. The show was the first nationally-syndicated black music show, and it significantly impacted popular culture. Cornelius was inducted into the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame in 1992.

Other Ventures

Cornelius’ influence extended beyond “Soul Train”. He founded Soul Train Records in 1974, signing artists like The Jackson 5 and The Dazz Band. He also produced several television specials and movies, including “Soul Train’s 20th Anniversary Special” and “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia”.

Assets

Cornelius’ assets include real estate properties, primarily in California. He owned a home in the Hollywood Hills, which he purchased in 1974. He also had investments in various businesses and stocks. His most valuable asset, however, was his stake in “Soul Train”, which he sold in 2008.

Annual Income

Cornelius’ annual income varied throughout his career. At the height of “Soul Train”, he was earning millions annually from the show’s syndication fees and endorsements. After selling “Soul Train” in 2008, his income primarily came from his investments and residuals from his television work. His exact annual income in his later years is not publicly available.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Don Cornelius

Frequently Asked Questions: Don Cornelius Net Worth

1. What is Don Cornelius’ net worth?

Don Cornelius’ net worth is estimated to be around $300 million.

2. How did Don Cornelius make his money?

Don Cornelius made his fortune as the creator and host of the popular television dance program, “Soul Train.” He also founded the Soul Train Music Awards and had interests in various other businesses.

3. When was Don Cornelius born?

Don Cornelius was born on September 1, 1936.

4. Where was Don Cornelius born?

Don Cornelius was born in Chicago, Illinois.

5. When did Don Cornelius pass away?

Don Cornelius passed away on February 1, 2012.

6. What was the cause of Don Cornelius’ death?

Don Cornelius died by suicide at the age of 75.

7. Did Don Cornelius have any children?

Yes, Don Cornelius had two children, a son named Tony Cornelius and a daughter named Tracey Cornelius.

8. What was the impact of “Soul Train” on popular culture?

“Soul Train” was the first nationally syndicated television program to feature African American music and dance, and it played a significant role in popularizing soul music and dance to a wider audience.

9. What awards did Don Cornelius receive?

Don Cornelius received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a Lifetime Achievement Award at the NAACP Image Awards, and induction into the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame.

10. What was the legacy of Don Cornelius?

Don Cornelius’ legacy lies in his pioneering work in bringing African American music and culture to mainstream television, as well as his influence on generations of musicians, dancers, and entertainers. His impact on popular culture continues to be felt today.