Jimmy Hart Net Worth

What is Jimmy Hart's Net Worth?

Jimmy Hart is an American professional wrestling manager and musician who has a net worth of $5 million. Jimmy Hart is a legendary figure in professional wrestling, best known for his flamboyant style, megaphone-wielding persona, and incredible knack for managing some of the biggest stars in the industry. A longtime staple of both WWE (then WWF) and WCW, Hart carved out a unique niche as one of wrestling's most entertaining and effective heel managers. Before entering the squared circle, Hart enjoyed a brief but notable career in music, even scoring a hit single with the 1960s rock band The Gentrys. Once he transitioned into wrestling in the early 1980s, he became known as "The Mouth of the South," thanks to his non-stop chatter and unforgettable look, often clad in brightly colored suits plastered with his clients' faces. Over the years, Hart managed icons like Hulk Hogan, "Macho Man" Randy Savage, Bret Hart, and The Honky Tonk Man, earning a reputation for his charisma and ability to elevate talent. Beyond managing, Hart also played a major behind-the-scenes role, contributing theme songs, creative ideas, and helping with merchandising. His influence on wrestling stretches far beyond the ring, making him one of the sport's most enduring personalities.

Early Life and Music Career

James Ray Hart was born on January 1, 1944, in Jackson, Mississippi. He grew up in Memphis and attended Memphis State University (now the University of Memphis). Before his career in wrestling, Hart made his mark in the music industry as a member of the 1960s band The Gentrys. The group's biggest hit, "Keep on Dancing," reached the Top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1965 and earned them national attention, including appearances on shows like "Hullabaloo" and "Shindig."

Though The Gentrys' success was relatively short-lived, Hart remained involved in the music business throughout the 1970s, dabbling in production and songwriting. His music background would later become a huge asset in his wrestling career, particularly in his contributions to entrance themes and promotional work.

Rise in Professional Wrestling

Hart's entrance into wrestling came in the early 1980s when fellow Memphian Jerry "The King" Lawler helped bring him into the Memphis-based Continental Wrestling Association (CWA). Initially appearing as a manager for Lawler, Hart eventually turned heel and managed a rotating cast of Lawler's rivals under the name "The First Family of Wrestling." His knack for cutting fiery promos, drawing fan heat, and helping elevate talent caught the attention of Vince McMahon.

In 1985, Hart made the jump to the WWF during the wrestling boom ignited by Hulk Hogan and the "Rock 'n' Wrestling Connection." He quickly became one of the company's top heel managers. Known for his loud, nasally voice, oversized sunglasses, and signature megaphone, Hart was an ever-present ringside distraction. He managed numerous top stars including The Honky Tonk Man, Greg "The Hammer" Valentine, King Kong Bundy, and The Hart Foundation (Bret Hart and Jim Neidhart).

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Partnership with Hulk Hogan and WCW Era

Perhaps Hart's most enduring alliance came with Hulk Hogan, whom he began managing in the early 1990s. When Hogan left the WWF for WCW in 1994, Hart followed him and became a key player in the company's success during the Monday Night Wars era. In WCW, Hart not only served as Hogan's on-screen manager but also played a major backstage role in producing theme music, managing talent, and contributing to creative decisions.

At WCW, Hart managed numerous wrestlers, including Kevin Sullivan, The Giant (Big Show), Lex Luger, and the Dungeon of Doom faction. He also worked closely with the production team on merchandising and promotions, proving his versatility behind the scenes.

(Photo by John Lamparski/WireImage)

Theme Music and Creative Contributions

One of Jimmy Hart's lesser-known but incredibly impactful contributions to professional wrestling was his work in music production. Drawing from his rock background, Hart composed or co-wrote dozens of iconic wrestling theme songs, including entrance themes for Shawn Michaels, The Honky Tonk Man, and even Hulk Hogan's "American Made" WCW anthem. His music helped shape the soundscape of professional wrestling in the 1980s and 1990s, lending performers a more theatrical and recognizable presence.

Hart's creative fingerprints were also found on promotional segments, merchandising ideas, and the development of several wrestler gimmicks. His instincts for entertainment made him a valuable asset beyond his on-camera role.

Later Years and Legacy

Following the demise of WCW in 2001, Hart made sporadic appearances in WWE (formerly WWF), often tied to nostalgia-themed programming and special events. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, with Hulk Hogan serving as his inductor. Hart also helped co-found Hogan's short-lived wrestling promotion, Hulk Hogan's Celebrity Championship Wrestling, and has been involved in various legends conventions and independent shows over the years.

Outside the ring, Hart co-owned the now-closed "Jimmy Hart's Hall of Fame Bar and Tiki Deck" in Daytona Beach, Florida, and appeared in several wrestling documentaries and specials. He has remained a beloved figure among longtime fans, known as much for his showmanship as for his real-life loyalty to the business and its stars.

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