In the annual Forbes’ list of top celebrity earners, there were no surprises. You could probably guess who took the top spot but we’ll just let you see for yourself. A combination of endorsement deals and ownership business models put these following four African-American celebs amongst the top 20 celebrity earners of 2010.
4. Beyonce Knowles
Estimated earnings: $87 million
Ever the breadwinner, Beyonce continues to outdo her peers in the income bracket and ranks as the top-earning musician on the list above Lady Gaga and Brittney Spears. The fact that she tours so much is a big determinant of her large earnings. She also has her uber-successful perfume line, her fashion line House of Dereon, and endorsement deals with Loreal and DIRECTV to boost her earnings.
3. Tiger Woods
Estimated earnings: $105 million
Despite the fact that Tiger Woods lost a lot of endorsement deals this year and gave up over $100 million in a divorce settlement, the pro golfer still has the luxury of being the only famous Black golfer in the world. He’s an anomaly and he will continue to capitalize on that fact. Not to mention, the man continues to win, win, and win. After taking a long break from the golfing world in the aftermath of the public spectacle of his extra-marital affairs, Woods came back to the game without losing a step.
2. Tyler Perry
Estimated earnings: $125 million
Tyler Perry may be criticized for his film-making abilities but no one would ever attack his business prowess. In a classic get-rich fashion, the playwright owns his production company, meaning he’s first in line to reap the stellar financial benefits of his wildly successful films. In 2008, Perry has also opened a studio in Atlanta where his television shows for TBS, Meet the Browns and House of Payne, are filmed.
1. Oprah Winfrey
Estimated earnings: $315 million
Ms. O tops the list of top earning celebrities, period. She easily beats out the #2 top earner, Avatar filmmaker James Cameron, by $100 million. Whereas many celebrities derives their earnings from endorsement deals, Oprah derives almost all of her hard-earned cash through her syndicated show, which her production company Harpo studios produces. Although The Oprah Winfrey Show will end in 2011, the launch of her OWN cable network will keep her busy, and most likely maintain her status as the highest paid celebrity in America.
