Les Moonves Age Today: The Media Executive’s Journey to 73 and His Wealth and Net Worth
Les Moonves is a widely recognized media executive who has made a name for himself in the industry. With a career spanning several decades, he has worked on numerous high-profile projects and has become a household name. As of September 19, 2023, Les Moonves is 73 years old, having been born on October 6, 1949.
Throughout his career, Les Moonves has worked for some of the biggest names in the media industry, including CBS and Showtime. He has been involved in the development of hit TV shows such as “Survivor” and “CSI,” among others. Despite facing controversy in recent years due to allegations of sexual misconduct, Les Moonves’ contributions to the media industry remain significant, and his legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.
Early Life and Education
Childhood
Les Moonves was born in New York City to Josephine and Herman Moonves on October 6, 1949. He spent his childhood in Valley Stream, New York, where he attended Valley Stream Central High School. Moonves’ father owned a liquor store, while his mother was a registered nurse. Growing up, he was fascinated with television and would often watch shows like “I Love Lucy” and “The Honeymooners.”
Academic Pursuits
After graduating from high school, Moonves attended Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, where he majored in Spanish and minored in Greek. He completed his undergraduate studies in 1971 and went on to attend the William S. Paley Television and Radio Center at the School of Arts and Sciences at the University of Southern California. There, he earned a Master of Arts degree in Journalism in 1973.
During his time at USC, Moonves worked as a teaching assistant and also served as a production assistant on the television show “The Six Million Dollar Man.” These experiences provided him with valuable knowledge and skills that would later prove useful in his career in television.
Career Beginnings
Les Moonves began his career in the media industry during the 1970s as a stage manager for various television shows. He then transitioned into producing and worked on popular shows such as “The Six Million Dollar Man” and “The Love Boat.”
In the 1980s, Moonves became the vice president of movies and mini-series at 20th Century Fox Television. During his tenure, he oversaw the production of hit shows such as “L.A. Law” and “21 Jump Street.”
In 1995, Moonves joined CBS as the president of CBS Entertainment. He played a critical role in the development of popular shows like “Everybody Loves Raymond,” “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” and “Survivor.”
Moonves continued to climb the corporate ladder at CBS and was eventually appointed as the chairman and CEO of the CBS Corporation in 2003. Under his leadership, CBS became the most-watched network in the United States.
Despite Moonves’ controversial departure from CBS in 2018, he is still regarded as one of the most influential media executives of his time.
Rise to Prominence
Key Roles
Les Moonves began his career in the entertainment industry in the 1970s, where he worked as an actor and writer. However, he soon discovered his passion for behind-the-scenes work and transitioned into television production. One of his early key roles was as the president of Lorimar Television, where he oversaw the production of hit shows such as Dallas and Knots Landing. His success at Lorimar caught the attention of other media companies, leading to his appointment at Warner Bros. Television.
At Warner Bros., Moonves continued to gain recognition for his work. He was responsible for the development of popular shows like Friends, ER, and The West Wing. His success at Warner Bros. ultimately led to him being offered the position of CEO at CBS.
CBS Tenure
Moonves joined CBS in 1995 and quickly made a significant impact on the company. During his tenure, he oversaw the development of hit shows like Survivor, CSI, and The Big Bang Theory. He also led the acquisition of the television network UPN.
Moonves was known for his ability to spot hit shows and his willingness to take risks. He was also known for his strong leadership style and his ability to motivate his team. Under his leadership, CBS became one of the top-rated television networks in the United States.
Despite his many contributions to the media industry, Moonves resigned from CBS in 2018 following allegations of sexual misconduct. Nonetheless, his rise to prominence remains a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.
How Old is Les Moonves Today?
Les Moonves, the well-known American media executive, was born on October 6, 1949, in New York City, USA. As of September 19, 2023, he is 73 years old.
Moonves started his career in the media industry in the 1970s, where he began as a salesman for a television station in Manhattan. He then worked his way up, holding various positions in the industry before landing at CBS. Moonves served as the chairman and CEO of CBS Corporation from 2003 to 2018. During his tenure, he oversaw the CBS broadcast network as well as the cable network Showtime. He was also responsible for the company’s publishing division, Simon & Schuster.
Moonves has been recognized for his contributions to the media industry. In 2013, he was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, and he has received numerous awards and honors for his work.
Despite his success in the industry, Moonves’ career came to an abrupt end in 2018 when he resigned from CBS following allegations of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and abuse. In 2022, he and CBS reached a $30.5 million settlement with the office of the attorney general of New York, Letitia James, over the allegations.
Moonves’ net worth is estimated to be around $300 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Journey to 73
Career Highlights
Les Moonves, a prominent American media executive, began his journey in the television industry in the 1970s, where he worked as an actor and writer. Later on, he transitioned to the executive side of the business and worked for companies such as 20th Century Fox Television and Lorimar Television.
In 1995, Moonves joined CBS as the president of CBS Entertainment and was promoted to CEO of CBS Television in 1998. During his leadership, CBS became one of the most-watched television networks in the United States. Moonves was later promoted to chairman and CEO of CBS Corporation in 2003. During his tenure, he oversaw the acquisition of several media companies, including CNET Networks, Last.fm, and King World Productions. He also launched several successful television shows, such as “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” and “NCIS.”
Major Milestones
One of the significant milestones in Moonves’ career occurred in 2017 when he negotiated a new contract with CBS that made him one of the highest-paid executives in the media industry, earning a salary of $69.6 million per year.
However, Moonves’ career took a turn in 2018 when he was accused of sexual misconduct by several women. Following an investigation by the company’s board of directors, he resigned from CBS in September of that year.
Despite the controversy surrounding his departure from CBS, Moonves’ net worth remains substantial, with an estimated net worth of $700 million as of 2023, according to coopwb.in.
Wealth Accumulation
Salary and Earnings
Les Moonves, a successful media executive, has accumulated a significant fortune throughout his career. His net worth is estimated to be $300 million as of 2023. Moonves’ salary and earnings played a crucial role in his wealth accumulation. During his tenure as the chairman and CEO of CBS Corporation from 2003 to 2018, he earned an impressive salary. In 2017, he received a total compensation package of $69.3 million, making him one of the highest-paid CEOs in the United States.
Investments and Assets
Apart from his salary and earnings, Moonves has also made smart investments and acquired valuable assets. He reportedly owns several properties, including a mansion in Beverly Hills, California, and a penthouse in New York City. Additionally, he owns a private jet, which he uses for both business and personal travel.
Moonves has invested in various business ventures over the years. He was an early investor in the streaming service Hulu and reportedly made a significant profit when the company was sold to Disney in 2019. In addition, he invested in various startups and served on the board of directors for several companies.
In summary, Moonves’ wealth accumulation can be attributed to a combination of his high salary and earnings, smart investments, and valuable assets.
Legacy and Influence
Industry Impact
Les Moonves had a significant impact on the media industry during his time as CEO of CBS. He was responsible for overseeing the production of some of the most popular and critically acclaimed television shows of the past two decades, such as “CSI,” “Survivor,” and “The Big Bang Theory.” Additionally, he played a key role in the launch of CBS All Access, the network’s streaming service.
Under Moonves’ leadership, CBS became one of the world’s most profitable media companies, with a market capitalization of over $20 billion. His aggressive negotiating tactics helped CBS secure lucrative deals with cable providers and advertisers.
Philanthropy
Despite the controversy surrounding his departure from CBS, Les Moonves has remained active in philanthropy. He and his wife, Julie Chen, have donated millions of dollars to charitable causes over the years.
One of their most notable contributions was a $25 million gift to the University of Southern California in 2015, which established the Julie Chen/Leslie Moonves and CBS Media Center. The center provides students with hands-on experience in television production and journalism.
Moonves has also been a significant supporter of the Motion Picture & Television Fund, a non-profit organization that provides assistance to entertainment industry workers in need. Since 2007, he has served on the organization’s board of directors and has donated over $2 million to its cause.
Overall, Les Moonves’ legacy is complex. While he was undoubtedly a major force in the media industry, his departure from CBS amid allegations of sexual misconduct serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical leadership and accountability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Les Moonves’ Current Age?
Les Moonves is currently 73 years old as of October 6, 1949.
Who is Les Moonves’ Spouse?
Les Moonves is married to Julie Chen, a well-known television personality since 2004.
What is Les Moonves’ Net Worth in 2023?
As of 2022, Les Moonves’ net worth was estimated to be around $300 million. However, his current net worth in 2023 is not publicly known.
Who is Bobbie Phillips and How is She Related to Les Moonves?
Bobbie Phillips is an actress who was married to Les Moonves from 1993 to 2004. They have no known relation outside of their marriage.
Who is Julie Chen Married to?
Julie Chen is married to Les Moonves, a former television executive who was the chairman and CEO of CBS Corporation.
What is Les Moonves Doing Now?
As of September 19, 2023, it is not publicly known what Les Moonves is currently doing. After resigning from CBS Corporation in 2018 following allegations of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and abuse, he has kept a low profile.