David Wain Net Worth

What is David Wain's net worth?

David Wain is an American comedian, actor, writer, and director who has a net worth of $3 million. Rising to prominence in the early 1990s as a founding member of the sketch troupe The State, David Wain co-created and starred in its cult-classic MTV series. Wain then transitioned to film, directing the cult-hit "Wet Hot American Summer," which showcased his talent for blending parody with heartfelt storytelling. He later found mainstream success with "Role Models," a comedic tale that earned both critical acclaim and box office success. Over the past two decades, Wain has continued to shape comedy across media—as co-creator of "Childrens Hospital," co-founder of the Stella trio, director of romantic parodies like "They Came Together," and creator of Netflix's "Wet Hot American Summer" series—while also voicing characters on "Bob's Burgers" and "Superjail!" His work marries surreal wit with emotional depth, marking him as a true auteur in modern comedy.

Early Life & Comedy Roots

David Wain was born on August 1, 1969, in Shaker Heights, Ohio, to a Jewish family. He developed an early passion for performance and filmmaking, later relocating to New York to study film at NYU.

In 1988, he co-founded the sketch troupe originally called The New Group—later known as The State- alongside a dozen NYU classmates. This group gained fame with their 1993–1995 MTV series, which became a launchpad for many of its members, including Wain himself as both director and actor.

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Transition to Film & Cult Comedy

In 2001, Wain made his directorial debut with "Wet Hot American Summer," co-written with Michael Showalter. Set at a fictional summer camp, the film boasted a star-studded ensemble (Paul Rudd, Amy Poehler, Bradley Cooper, Elizabeth Banks) but poor initial returns. Nonetheless, it garnered a devoted cult following for its deadpan parody of teen-sex comedies.

He followed this with "The Ten," a comedic anthology loosely based on the Ten Commandments, featuring Winona Ryder and Paul Rudd.

Mainstream Breakthrough & Stella

Wain achieved broader recognition with "Role Models," a comedy about two energy drink salesmen sentenced to community service. The film earned over $92 million worldwide against a $28 million budget and received strong reviews.

That same year, he joined Michael Ian Black and Michael Showalter to form the comedy trio Stella, creating a cult-favorite series and touring with live comedy routines.

(Photo by Mat Hayward/Getty Images for Netflix)

Digital Era & Continued Directing

Between 2007 and 2011, Wain starred in "Wainy Days," a web series on My Damn Channel depicting a fictionalized version of himself navigating dating mishaps. Cited for its creative freedom and guest appearances (Jonah Hill, Elizabeth Banks), the series amassed over six million viewers.

He next directed "Wanderlust," starring Paul Rudd and Jennifer Aniston, and "They Came Together," a romantic-comedy spoof co-written with Showalter and featuring Rudd and Amy Poehler.

Television & Netflix Franchises

Around the late 2000s, Wain co-created "Childrens Hospital" for Adult Swim, alongside Rob Corddry, Jonathan Stern, and others. The parody of serious medical dramas ran for seven seasons, winning multiple Emmy awards.

He also led the revival of "Wet Hot American Summer" via Netflix miniseries: "First Day of Camp" and "Ten Years Later." Both brought back much of the original cast, added new comedic talent, and enjoyed critical appreciation.

Recent Work & Voice Acting

Wain directed "A Futile and Stupid Gesture," a biopic about National Lampoon co-founder Doug Kenney, starring Will Forte. Critics praised its satirical tone and creative style.

He continues to voice characters in animated series, including The Warden in "Superjail!" and multiple roles in "Bob's Burgers." He also created "Medical Police" and directed episodes of shows like "Miracle Workers."

Style & Legacy

Wain's signature is absurdist comedy grounded in real emotion. From camp parodies to romantic send-ups and workplace satire, he continuously defies genre expectations. His ensemble casts are often filled with recurring collaborators, creating a recognizable comedic universe.

By blending mainstream appeal with quirky, intelligent humor, Wain has become both a cult favorite and an influential comedic force.

Personal Life

Wain resides in Los Angeles. He was married to actress and producer Zandy Hartig, with whom he has two sons. The couple later divorced.

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