Judith Sheindlin, famously known for her reality courtroom show, Judge Judy, is a Manhattan family court judge and a media personality. Her net worth stands at a staggering $440 million as per Celebrity Net Worth. Born on October 21, 1942, the 81-year-old has made a name for herself for being direct with her approach when handling cases.
With decades of work in the legal and entertainment fields under her belt, she has earned $47 million per year, pretax, from hosting Judge Judy which was once a top-rated daytime show.
In 2017, Sheindlin sold the rights of Judge Judy's 5,200-episode library, plus any future episodes that might air to CBS for an estimated $100 million. She quit Judge Judy in 2020 after 25 years of its run.
A look into Judith Sheindlin's career
Judith Sheindlin completed her bachelor's degree in arts. She earned her juris doctor degree in 1965 when she attended New York Law School and joined a cosmetics firm as a corporate lawyer.
She soon transitioned to family court, where she gained a reputation for her straightforward, efficient handling of cases. In 1972, she was appointed as a judge in the New York Family Court, a role in which she served for 17 years. She retired in 1996 as supervising judge in the family court system in New York, after hearing around 20,000 cases.
In the same year, her breakthrough into television came when CBS' 60 Minutes profiled her, catching the attention of television producers in America. This led to the creation of Judge Judy, a courtroom reality show that became a cultural phenomenon, making her a household name.
The show ran for 25 years, during which Sheindlin became known for her sharp comments, quick judgments, and memorable catchphrases. It consistently topped daytime television ratings, making Sheindlin one of the highest-paid personalities on TV.
Continued Success with Judy Justice
Following the conclusion of Judge Judy, Sheindlin launched Judy Justice on IMDb TV, which is now known as Amazon Freevee, in November 2021. This new venture after the success of Judge Judy allowed her to continue dispensing her brand of justice, reaching a new generation of viewers.
Judy Justice has been well-received by critics and fans alike, ensuring that Judith Sheindlin's influence in the realm of reality courtroom television remains strong.
Other Ventures and Contributions
In addition to her television career, Judith Sheindlin has authored several books, including Don't Pee on My Leg and Tell Me It's Raining and Beauty Fades, Dumb is Forever, and Keep It Simple, Stupid: You're Smarter Than You Look, which became bestsellers during the time of their release. These publications offer insights into her views on life, law, and common sense.
Sheindlin's financial acumen extends to real estate investments as well. She owns multiple properties, including a $13 million 9-bedroom mansion in Greenwich, Connecticut, and a $10.7 million condo in Beverly Hills, California. As per Celebrity Net Worth, the Greenwich property is likely worth more than $20 million, contributing to her $440 million net worth.
Recognition and Legacy
Over the years, Judith Sheindlin has received numerous accolades for her work. She was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2006 and received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Daytime Emmy Awards in 2019.
Her influence extends beyond the courtroom and television. She has been a vocal advocate for judicial reform and children's rights, using her platform to talk about various causes.
Personal Life
Judith Sheindlin's personal life is as varied as her professional career. Sheis married to Jerry Sheindlin, who later became an arbitrator on The People's Court from 1999 to 2001. Although they separated in 1990, they remarried in 1991.
She has 2 children with her former husband, Ronald Levy whom she married in 1964, and three stepchildren with Jerry. The couple has 13 grandchildren, and they divide their time between their homes in Connecticut, Florida, and California.