Ron White, the celebrated stand-up comedian, actor, and author, is affectionately known by the moniker “Tater Salad,” a nickname that resonates worldwide. His career rapidly soared when he joined the illustrious Blue Collar Comedy Tours alongside other renowned comedians.
Apart from his comedic brilliance, Ron White’s fame also stems from his appearances on various television shows and his best-selling book, “I Had the Right to Remain Silent But I Didn’t Have the Ability,” which earned a coveted spot on the New York Times bestseller list.
Additionally, he is an enterprising entrepreneur, having founded Number JUAN Tequila, which has garnered multiple awards at tequila festivals, as well as the Organica Music Group (OMG) recording label.
Early Life
Ronald “Ron” Dee White was born on December 18, 1956, in Fritch, Texas, to Charles Don White and Barbara Joan Craig. Aspiring to become a renowned comedian, he pursued his dream of bringing laughter and joy to those around him. After completing high school, Ron enlisted in the Navy, serving on an auxiliary rescue and salvage ship for 18 months until the end of the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he briefly resided in Mexico, where he invested in a pottery manufacturing factory with his earnings.
In 2002, his passion for comedy drew him back to the United States to pursue his lifelong dream.
Ron White’s Career
Ron White’s career took off when he joined the Blue Collar Comedy Tour, featuring comedians Bill Engvall, Larry the Cable Guy, and Jeff Foxworthy, from January 2000 to March 2003. The tour became a colossal success, captivating massive crowds and grossing over $15 million in ticket sales.
Even after the Blue Collar Comedy Tours, Ron’s fame continued to soar, bolstered by his TV appearances and live sitcoms. He further solidified his career by co-founding the Organica Music Group (OMG) record label, consisting of iconic comedians and musicians.
Notably, Ron also delved into politics, announcing his independent candidacy for President of the United States in 2016. He also penned a book entitled “I Had The Right To Remain Silent…But I Didn’t Have The Ability,” blending comedy with tales of his childhood and career, securing a spot on the New York Times bestseller list.
Personal Life
Throughout his life, Ron White has had several marriages. His first marriage to Lori Brice lasted twelve years and resulted in a son named Marshall. Subsequently, he married Barbara Dobbs in 2004, but the couple divorced four years later. In 2009, he was rumored to be married to Margo Rey, but he asserted that they were not legally married when news of their separation emerged in 2017.
Ron White faced legal issues related to the alleged possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia on his private plane. However, the charges were dropped when it was revealed that the tip leading to the investigation was unfounded.
Achievements and Awards
Ron White’s illustrious career has earned him multiple nominations for prestigious awards, including the Grammy Awards. In March 2009, he was honored with the Patriot Award by the Armed Forces Foundation for his efforts in raising funds to support wounded warriors.
His contributions were commemorated on April 27, 2009, when the Texas House of Representatives declared it “Ron White Day.” Furthermore, his comedy album, “A Little Unprofessional,” released in 2012, was nominated for the Best Comedy Album Award at the 56th Annual Grammy Awards.
Ron White’s Net Worth
Ron White’s current net worth is estimated to be approximately $45 million, predominantly attributed to his successful Blue Collar Comedy Tours and business ventures, such as his tequila brand, Number JUAN Tequila. The tequila brand has received accolades at five tequila festivals, securing two bronze, two silver, and ten gold medals, as well as being recognized as the Best Show for Packaging.