Denis Leary, the bold comedian and acclaimed actor, has built a multi-faceted career that spans stand-up comedy, television, film, writing, and philanthropy. Known for his biting wit and unapologetic humor, Leary has carved a space in entertainment that is uniquely his own. As of 2025, Denis Leary net worth is approximately $30 million, a testament to his decades-long success in the industry.
His financial achievements are not just due to fame, but also to his consistent and strategic involvement in creative and production ventures that have paid off in both influence and earnings.
What Is Denis Leary Net Worth and Salary?
Leary estimated net worth of $30 million is the result of numerous revenue streams accumulated over the years. His average annual salary has varied depending on the projects he has worked on.
During the run of Rescue Me, he reportedly earned between $250,000 $400,000 per episode, thanks to his dual role as lead actor and executive producer. Throughout seven seasons, this translated to millions in direct earnings, not including residuals from syndication and DVD sales.
He also earns from voice acting, particularly his recurring role in the Ice Age animated film series, where he voices Diego, the sabre-toothed tiger. Add in his published books, comedy specials, and backend profits from producing, and Leary annual earnings have consistently ranged between $2 million and $5 million over the past two decades.
Early Life
Denis Colin Leary was born on August 18, 1957, in Worcester, Massachusetts. Raised by Irish immigrant parents in a working-class household, his childhood played a foundational role in shaping his comic tone, gritty, honest, and raw.
His father, John Leary, worked as a car mechanic, while his mother, Nora, worked as a maid and cook. The household was strict, Catholic, and complete with strong Irish values, which Leary has often drawn upon in his comedy routines.
He attended Saint Peter’s High School and later enrolled at Emerson College in Boston. At Emerson, Leary not only discovered his comedic talent but also developed a lifelong passion for storytelling. He eventually became a teacher at Emerson, where he helped guide aspiring comedians before fully stepping into the spotlight himself.
Let’s Take a Look at Denis Leary Profile
| Category | Details |
| Real Name | Denis Colin Leary |
| Date of Birth | August 18, 1957 |
| Age | 67 (as of 2025) |
| Height | 6 feet (1.83 meters) |
| Weight | Approximately 175 lbs (79 kg) |
| Partner | Ann Lembeck Leary |
| Nationality | American |
| Birthplace | Worcester, Massachusetts, USA |
| Father | John Leary |
| Mother | Nora Leary |
Income Sources Behind Denis Leary Net Worth
Denis Leary net worth is built on an array of income-generating ventures that stretch across different areas of entertainment. His career isn’t confined to just acting or stand-up; he’s worn the hats of producer, writer, and voice artist, all of which have contributed to his substantial earnings.
The most significant chunk of his income comes from:
- Television and Film: Leary roles in Rescue Me, The Job, and The Amazing Spider-Man brought him mainstream success and financial returns.
- Voice Acting: His role as Diego in the Ice Age franchise brought in both upfront payments and long-term residuals.
- Book Sales: His humorous and often brutally honest books, like Why We Suck, have done well in the market.
- Comedy Specials & Tours: His national stand-up tours and televised specials added significant income over the years.
- Production Royalties: As a co-creator and executive producer of Rescue Me, he benefited from streaming, DVD sales, and syndication.
Career Highlights That Shaped Denis Leary Net Worth
Leary began his career in the Boston stand-up scene in the 1980s. Known for his high-energy delivery and fearless social commentary, he quickly gained attention. His early big break came through MTV in the 1990s, with comedic spots that showcased his aggressive yet clever sense of humor. These appearances made him a cult favorite among younger audiences, laying the foundation for his rise.
He transitioned into acting with early roles in films like Judgment Night and Demolition Man. However, the turning point in his career was the creation of Rescue Me in 2004. In it, he played Tommy Gavin, a tormented New York firefighter dealing with the trauma of 9/11. The show, which he also co-wrote and produced, ran for seven seasons and garnered critical acclaim. Leary received Emmy nominations for both acting and writing.
In addition to television, Leary has continued to act in major motion pictures, perform stand-up, and write best-selling books. His role as Diego in Ice Age brought him to a new, younger audience, while The Amazing Spider-Man introduced him to fans of superhero films.
Personal Life
While Denis Leary is known for his sharp tongue and high-energy comedy, his off-screen life is far more grounded and focused on family, loyalty, and giving back. Over the years, he has maintained a relatively private personal life, offering fans only glimpses into the values and relationships that shape his world.
Marriage to Ann Lembeck Leary
Denis Leary has been married to Ann Lembeck Leary since 1989. Ann is an accomplished author and former journalist, known for books such as The Good House and Outtakes. The couple met while attending Emerson College, and their bond has lasted more than three decades. Despite the challenges of fame, they’ve managed to maintain a strong and stable relationship, often praising each other’s work and offering public support.
Ann has played a significant role in shaping Denis’s stability. They have two children together and share a life that balances creativity with family time. Ann often incorporates her own experiences into her writing, and Denis has credited her with helping him stay grounded throughout his rise to fame.
Family and Children
Denis and Ann Leary have two children: a son named Jack and a daughter whose personal details are kept more private. While Denis has joked about parenting in his stand-up routines, he has also shown a deep commitment to his role as a father. He avoids exposing his children to the limelight and has often emphasized the importance of privacy in their upbringing.
Despite being a public figure, Leary prefers to keep his family life low-key. The Learys live primarily in Connecticut, where they enjoy a quieter, more rural lifestyle away from Hollywood’s constant buzz. This lifestyle enables them to prioritize personal growth and foster meaningful family relationships.
Connection to the Firefighting Community
One of the most potent aspects of Leary personal life is his emotional connection to firefighters. This bond began tragically in 1999 when his cousin, a firefighter, died alongside five colleagues in the Worcester Cold Storage Warehouse fire. Deeply affected, Leary turned his grief into action by founding the Leary Firefighters Foundation in 2000.
The foundation has donated millions to fire departments across New York, Massachusetts, and New Orleans. Through training programs, equipment grants, and infrastructure upgrades, Leary continues to support those who risk their lives every day. This commitment reflects not only personal loss but also a profound appreciation for real-life heroes, a theme often explored in his television work, especially in Rescue Me.
Lifestyle and Interests
Leary lives a relatively quiet life off-camera. Unlike many Hollywood celebrities, he doesn’t indulge in excessive luxury or tabloid drama. He enjoys reading, writing, watching sports (particularly hockey), and spending time with family and close friends. Leary is also known to avoid social media, preferring meaningful in-person relationships over digital interactions.
He owns a historic estate in Connecticut, where he enjoys the peace of rural living. This home reflects his values: privacy, simplicity, and connection to nature. When not working on creative projects, he dedicates his time to supporting causes he believes in, including mental health awareness and community safety initiatives.
Controversies
Like many comedians who push boundaries, Leary has faced his share of controversies. One of the most notable accusations was that he lifted material from the late comedian Bill Hicks. The two had similar edgy styles, and some critics alleged that Leary early routines bore too close a resemblance to Hicks’ work. Leary has consistently denied these claims, and although the controversy lingers in comedy circles, it has not severely damaged his career.
He’s also drawn criticism for some of his jokes, which some consider offensive or politically incorrect. Leary defends his approach as part of the comedian’s duty to provoke thought and challenge norms. Despite the backlash, he has remained unapologetic and continues to attract audiences who appreciate his raw and unfiltered delivery.
Real Estate Investments Adding to Denis Leary Net Worth
Denis Leary has invested in several properties throughout his career, including a large, historic estate in Connecticut. This home serves as his primary residence, offering him the privacy and peace that he craves, away from the buzz of Hollywood. The property reflects his taste for classic architecture and nature-friendly living.
He also owns property in New York City, close to where he worked during the filming of Rescue Me. These real estate assets not only provide personal comfort but have also increased in value over time, adding to his net worth. Leary real estate portfolio is modest but high in value, aligning with his quiet yet bright financial approach.
Conclusion: The Legacy Behind Denis Leary Net Worth
Denis Leary has built a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry through hard work, passion, and authenticity. From the comedy stages of Boston to Emmy-nominated television roles, Leary career has spanned over three decades and continues to thrive. His estimated $30 million net worth is a testament to his strategic career moves, creative control, and unwavering work ethic.
What truly sets Leary apart is his versatility, encompassing roles as actor, writer, comedian, voice artist, and philanthropist. His influence extends beyond entertainment into social causes, particularly in support of firefighters, a community close to his heart. Despite some controversies, Leary remains a respected and admired figure who has never been afraid to speak his mind or tell it like it is.
