Woody Johnson Net Worth 2024, Salary and Earnings: Woody Johnson is the fourth-generation heir to the Johnson & Johnson fortune and owner of the New York Jets, with a current net worth of $8.78 billion in 2024, primarily earning through his NFL team ownership valued at $6.8 billion and various business investments, while receiving an estimated annual income of $100 million from diverse revenue streams including his stake in Johnson & Johnson.
Key Facts About Woody Johnson
- Woody Johnson current net worth is estimated at $8.78 billion as of November 2024.
- Owner of the NFL’s New York Jets, purchased for $635 million in 2000.
- Served as US Ambassador to the UK from 2017 to 2021.
- Fourth-generation heir to Johnson & Johnson fortune.
- Born on April 12, 1947, in New Brunswick, New Jersey.
Who is Woody Johnson
Robert Wood “Woody” Johnson IV stands as one of America’s prominent business figures and sports team owners. As the great-grandson of Johnson & Johnson co-founder Robert Wood Johnson I, he has built upon his family legacy while creating his own path in business and public service.
Net Worth and Financial Status
Johnson’s wealth primarily stems from his Johnson & Johnson inheritance and ownership of the New York Jets. His current net worth of $8.78 billion shows significant growth, with a year-to-date increase of $920 million (+11.7%) in 2024. The New York Jets, his largest single asset, was valued at $6.8 billion in August 2024 according to Sportico.
Early Life and Education
Born into the Johnson & Johnson family in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Woody Johnson grew up in an affluent environment. He attended the prestigious Millbrook School in the Hudson Valley before completing his education at the University of Arizona. Despite his family’s pharmaceutical empire, Johnson worked at Johnson & Johnson for only one summer, choosing to forge his own business path.
Career Journey
Johnson’s business acumen emerged in the 1970s when he built and sold a successful cable company in Florida. His most significant business move came in 2000 when he purchased the New York Jets for $635 million from the estate of Leon Hess. Under his ownership, the Jets moved to MetLife Stadium in 2010, sharing the facility with the New York Giants.
Public Service and Diplomacy
From 2017 to 2021, Johnson served as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom under President Donald Trump’s administration. During his tenure, he oversaw significant developments including Britain’s exit from the EU and the relocation of the US Embassy in London.
Personal Life and Family
Johnson has been married twice. His first marriage to Nancy Sale Johnson (1977-2001) produced three children. In 2009, he married Suzanne Ircha, a former actress and equities managing director, with whom he has two children. His family life has been marked by both triumph and tragedy, including the loss of his daughter Casey to diabetic ketoacidosis in 2010.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Johnson’s philanthropic efforts focus heavily on medical research, particularly in diabetes and lupus research. He founded the Alliance for Lupus Research after his daughter Jaime was diagnosed with the condition. His advocacy has led to significant funding for diabetes research, including a successful lobby for a $750 million congressional funding package.
Properties and Assets
Johnson maintains residences in Bedminster, New Jersey, and Palm Beach, Florida. In 2014, he sold his Manhattan duplex at 834 Fifth Avenue for $80 million, setting a record for New York co-op sales at the time.
Controversies
During his ambassadorship, Johnson faced allegations regarding inappropriate comments and potential conflicts of interest. While an inspector general report noted concerns about potentially offensive comments, a subsequent State Department investigation found the allegations unsubstantiated. He also faced scrutiny over attempts to influence the location of the British Open golf tournament to Trump’s Turnberry resort.
Latest News
Recent developments have highlighted significant organizational challenges within the Jets. Staff members were reportedly “warned” about Johnson’s “unpredictable” management style amid the team’s challenging 2-6 season start in 2024. During a recent “Thursday Night Football” game, Jets fans expressed their frustration with chants of “sell the team” at MetLife Stadium.
Johnson has taken an active role in team operations, personally intervening in Haason Reddick contract negotiations. He recently addressed and denied reports about a “heated argument” with head coach Robert Saleh during NFL owner meetings. Additionally, Johnson has maintained his political presence, contributing $1 million to a super PAC supporting Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign.
The situation continues to evolve as Johnson navigates both his role as team owner and his various business and political interests, facing the dual challenges of improving team performance and maintaining public confidence in his leadership.
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