Tom Cruise is just one of three celebrities who have made it onto a US Rich List – no mean feat for an actor in the wealthiest country in the world. With a fortune estimated at £167 million, the Eyes Wide Shut star is in 19th position in the latest Forbes Magazine 40 Richest People Under 40 list. This is the first time that entertainers have made it onto the prestigious ratings, once the territory of Internet tycoons and businessmen.
Sean “Puffy” Combs, 31, comes in at the number 22 spot, with £154 million. The rapper, who announced his split with Jennifer Lopez on Valentine’s Day this year, has made his millions from his show business empire, Bad Boy Entertainment, as well as his clothing range, Sean John. Rubber-faced funnyman Jim Carrey, with his personal fortune of £114 million, makes it to number 36.
The magazine reveals that a star’s earning potential is made all that much greater if that person turns himself into a brand, rather than merely being a performer. “As a result, they can demand a much larger share of the power and wealth within the industry – and seek greater entrepreneurial opportunities outside it,” the magazine claims.
Other names on the list include sportsmen Michael Jordan, 13th on the list with a massive £260 million, and golf pro Tiger Woods. No women made it onto the Forbes ratings, although Rosie O’Donnell, Britney Spears, and Julia Roberts, whose personal fortune is estimated at £89 million, are tipped as future members of this elite club.