What is Michael McDonald's net worth?
Michael McDonald is an American stand-up comedian, actor, director, and writer who has a net worth of $3 million. Obviously not to be confused with the singer Michael McDonald, the comedian Michael McDonald is best known for his decade-long run on the sketch comedy series "MADtv." He became the show's longest-serving cast member, creating a number of beloved characters, including Stuart Larkin and the Depressed Persian Tow Truck Man. Beyond his work in sketch comedy, McDonald has acted in films such as "Austin Powers," "The Heat," "Spy," and "Halloween Kills," and directed episodes of hit shows like "Scrubs," "Cougar Town," and "Brooklyn Nine-Nine." His career spans stand-up comedy, acting, directing, and writing, making him one of the most versatile comedic talents in the business.
Early Life and Education
Michael James McDonald was born on December 31, 1964, in Fullerton, California. He attended St. Juliana Catholic Elementary School and Servite High School in Anaheim, before earning a business degree from the University of Southern California. After a brief stint working as a loan officer at a Los Angeles bank, McDonald attended a performance by the famed improv group The Groundlings. Inspired by the experience, he joined the troupe in 1992 and remained active with them until 1997, laying the foundation for his future in sketch comedy.
MADtv
McDonald joined "MADtv" during its fourth season in 1998 and remained with the show through its thirteenth season, making him the longest-tenured cast member in the series' history. He became known for his wide range of characters, but none more iconic than Stuart Larkin—the hyperactive, immature man-child who delighted audiences with his catchphrase, "Look what I can do!" Other standout characters included Rusty Miller, Marvin Tikvah, Sean Gidcomb, Bible Dude, and the Depressed Persian Tow Truck Man.
In addition to performing, McDonald contributed as a writer and director, further shaping the show's unique tone and humor. He was the only cast member to receive a dedicated "best of" clip show special.
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Film and Television Career
Outside of "MADtv," McDonald has built a steady career in both film and television. He appeared in all three "Austin Powers" films and had memorable roles in "The Heat," "Spy," "The Boss," "Ghostbusters" (2016), and "Halloween Kills" (2021). On television, he has guest-starred in episodes of "Seinfeld," "Just Shoot Me!," "Scrubs," and "NewsRadio."
McDonald also provided the voice of Gandhi in the animated cult hit "Clone High" and has done voice work for other series including "The Loud House."
Directing and Writing
Michael McDonald has also made a name for himself as a director and writer, particularly in television comedy. He directed multiple episodes of "Scrubs," along with episodes of "Cougar Town," "Mike & Molly," "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," and "God's Favorite Idiot." Earlier in his career, he also directed the films "The Crazysitter" (1994) and "A Bucket of Blood" (1995).
His behind-the-camera work has made him a respected creative force in the TV comedy world, trusted to guide episodes of some of the most popular sitcoms of the 2000s and 2010s.
Stand-Up Comedy
McDonald is also an accomplished stand-up comedian. He has toured nationwide and released a stand-up special titled "Michael McDonald: Model Citizen," which premiered on Showtime in October 2010. The special features personal storytelling and observational humor, and showcases McDonald's skill at blending stand-up with his sketch background.
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