What is Jim Rome’s Net Worth and Salary?
Jim Rome, a sports radio talk show host, has a net worth of $110 million, making him one of the richest and highest-paid sports broadcasters of all time. His show, “The Jim Rome Show,” has been syndicated by CBS Sports Radio since 2011, and he previously hosted “Jim Rome is Burning” on ESPN. Rome also has a deal with Showtime for an interview-based show. Known as one of the most influential talk radio personalities globally, Jim Rome has made a significant impact in the industry.
Highest-Paid Sports Broadcasters
Jim Rome, one of the highest-paid sports broadcasters and radio personalities in the world, previously held the top spot with an annual salary of $30 million. However, his record was recently topped by Tom Brady’s 10-year $375 million Fox Sports deal, which will begin after his retirement.
Other notable names on the list of highest-paid sports broadcasters include Stephen A. Smith, who signed a five-year $35 million contract with ESPN, and Joe Buck, who reportedly makes $6 million per year as a lead announcer for Fox Sports.
Despite being surpassed by Brady, Rome’s net worth is still estimated at $100 million, thanks to his successful career as a sports broadcaster and author.
Jim Rome Net Worth
Jim Rome is a popular American sports radio host, who has a net worth of $75 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. He has built his wealth through his successful career in sports media, including hosting his own show, “The Jim Rome Show,” which has been on the air since 1996.
Rome first gained national attention in the 1990s for his controversial and outspoken style on his television show, “Talk2,” which aired on the ESPN network. He then moved on to host his own show on Fox Sports Net, before eventually landing at CBS Sports Radio, where he currently hosts “The Jim Rome Show.”
In addition to his radio show, Rome has also authored several books, including “This Ain’t No Holiday Inn: Down and Out at the Chelsea Hotel 1980-1995,” which chronicles his experiences living at the legendary New York City hotel during the 1980s and 1990s.
Despite his success, Rome has not been without controversy over the years. He has been involved in several high-profile feuds with athletes and other media personalities, including former NFL quarterback Jim Everett, whom he famously called “Chris” during a live interview, and fellow sports radio host Dan Le Batard.
Early Life and Education
Jim Rome was born in Los Angeles, California in 1964. He attended the University of California in Santa Barbara where he became the sports director of the college’s radio station. In 1987, Rome graduated with a degree in Communications.
Jim Rome’s Professional Broadcasting Career
Jim Rome began his professional broadcasting career in San Diego, working at XTRA Sports 690 and developing his own show, which later became “The Jim Rome Show.” The show became increasingly popular and was syndicated by CBS in 1996, now broadcast across the US and Canada on over 200 radio stations.
Rome also hosted shows for ESPN, including “Talk2” and “Jim Rome is Burning,” before finding work at FX hosting “The FX Sports Show,” and Fox Sports Net hosting “The Last Word.” Although he left ESPN, he returned before ultimately parting ways in 2011. Rome has expressed interest in future TV work, but only in the interview format. Today, his radio show draws in an audience of around 2.5 million.
Controversies Involving Jim Rome
Jim Rome has been involved in several controversies over the years. One of the most notable was a physical altercation with Jim Everett, who Rome repeatedly called “Chris” in reference to a female tennis player, despite Everett’s clear offense. Rome also made a controversial joke about paying International Hockey League players to injure Gordie Howe, whom he called an “old fool.”
Rome also drew criticism after questioning the NBA Draft Lottery’s fairness and getting into a heated argument with David Stern. Additionally, he sparked outrage by criticizing marching band members.
Jim Rome’s Jungle Racing Stable Finds Success in Horse Racing
After years of mocking horse racing, Jim Rome developed an interest in the sport and founded Jungle Racing, LLC stable. In January 2013, the stable’s prized mare, Mizdirection, won the $150,000 Monrovia Stakes at Santa Anita Park, retiring later that year with $1.72 million in earnings. Another successful horse, Shared Belief, won over $2 million in 2014 alone.
Personal Life
Jim Rome is married to his wife, Janet. They have two children and live in California.
Jim Rome’s Real Estate Portfolio
In 2015, Jim Rome listed his Laguna Beach home for just under $6 million, but after no buyers, he dropped the price to $5.5 million. The three-bedroom home features large windows offering breathtaking views of Thousand Steps Beach and the Pacific Ocean. In 2017, he sold his 12,300 square foot property in Irvine for $12.5 million. The property includes a theater room, wine cellar, elevator, and a saltwater swimming pool. In 2018, he sold his five-bedroom lakefront home in Indio for $2.5 million. The Tuscan-inspired architecture includes outdoor amenities like patios, fireplaces, and a barbecue area, as well as a swimming pool, spa, and private boat dock.
