Shelton Jackson “Spike” Lee has made an indelible mark on the landscape of American cinema. With groundbreaking films like “ Do the Right Thing” (1989), “ Malcolm X” (1992), and “ BlacKkKlansman” (2018), Lee has provoked thought and dialogue on pressing societal issues. His directorial prowess has earned him critical acclaim, including an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for “BlacKkKlansman” in 2019. So, with all his cinematic success, what is Spike Lee’s net worth in 2025? Let’s take a look at his achievements and the numbers that have made Lee one of the most recognizable movie makers in the industry. From Atlanta Roots to Brooklyn Living Born on March 20, 1957, in Atlanta, Georgia, Shelton Jackson Lee was the eldest child of Jacqueline Carroll, an arts and literature teacher, and William James Edwards Lee III, a jazz musician and composer, per TV Insider . During Lee’s early years, the family relocated to Brooklyn, New York, settling in the Fort Greene neighborhood. It...

SZA is thanking Beyoncé for a kind gesture tied to her sophomore album. SZA released her long-awaited sophomore album “SOS” on Dec. 9, 2022, featuring 14 tracks, including “Snooze,” “Love Language,” and “Kill Bill,” the latter of which earned the artist her first No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 2023, notes Billboard. “The sound is a little bit of literally everything. It’s a little angry as an overview, but some of it is really beautiful and soft and heartfelt. It’s about heartbreak, it’s about being lost, it’s about being pissed,” she told People in regards to the album. “It’s my first album in five years, so I’m ready to be a different person and step into this new part of my life.” Like with any music project, collaborations with various producers, songwriters, and other artists are key to help an album reach the finish line. It appears SZA’s project was no different as Beyoncé also contributed to her first single, “SOS,” which features an interpolation of Beyoncé’s song...

Editorial Note: Opinions and thoughts are the author’s own and not those of AFROTECH™. The theme of the 2025 Met Gala was “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”, particularly focused on Black dandyism. Guest Curator Monica L. Miller’s book, “Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity,” served as the primary inspiration for the exhibit. Black dandyism began in 18th century Britain, but its cultural movement took root in the early 20th century, in which Black people embodied the European sensibility through clothing as a form of self-expression. Emerging during a time when African Americans had little to no agency after the Emancipation Proclamation (1863), they used dandyism to address the erosion of their civil rights. The theme highly parallels the current fight to retain ownership and freedom during a divisive time in politics. The 2025 Met Gala had Black male co-chairs for the first time in history, with celebrities A$AP Rocky, Lewis Hamilton,...

Acclaimed filmmaker Ryan Coogler, best known for writing and directing such smash hits as “ Black Panther ,” “Creed” and “Fruitvale Station,” has been making waves recently with his new movie “Sinners.” For those who don’t know, “Sinners” has already garnered over $70 million at the box office , despite having just released on Apr. 18. The film also had a very modest marketing push and very little studio support, making its success even more impressive. While “Sinners” has been drawing plenty of eyes from the general public, the behind-the-scenes story of Coogler’s Warner Bros deal has also enraptured creators, filmmakers and Hollywood film buffs alike. In fact, financial analysts have predicted that the “Sinners” deal could be worth millions for generations to come, while some studio insiders have expressed concern that the deal will destabilize the future of the industry if other filmmakers attempt to replicate it. In order to understand exactly what terms are established by Ryan...

Bobby Brown reveals the one business move he wish he had implemented at the start of his career. Brown’s rise to fame was through New Edition, which also included members Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Ralph Tresvant, and Ronnie DeVoe. The group infamously got their start in the industry after signing a $500 deal with musician and producer Maurice Starr, as AFROTECH™ previously told you. Their hit singles include “Can You Stand the Rain” and “If It Isn’t Love.” Brown later went solo after being voted out of the group, launching a highly successful career that saw him sell over 12 million physical copies. The success of his sophomore album, “Don’t Be Cruel,” alone was enough to set him up for life. He also made several business moves that benefited his career, including his publishing deal, which was structured by his mother and management team. “I saw a lot of it, because my deal was situated in a way where I made dollars on each record, not pennies,” he said on the “Club Shay Shay”...

Tyler James Williams has built a remarkable career in Hollywood , transitioning from a child star to a respected actor in television and film. Best known for his breakout role as the lead in Everybody Hates Chris , Williams has continued to evolve in the industry, securing major roles in critically acclaimed projects like Abbott Elementary . His ability to adapt and maintain longevity in the entertainment world has contributed to his financial success. But how much is Tyler James Williams’ net worth today? Let’s explore his career, earnings, and business ventures as well as his estimated wealth. Early Career And Breakthrough In Hollywood Williams’ introduction to Hollywood happened at a young age. Before Everybody Hates Chris , he was already acting on television. He made guest appearances on hit shows such as Sesame Street and Saturday Night Live . His early exposure to the industry gave him a solid foundation, preparing him for his breakout role. His big break came in 2005 when he...

Bobby Brown’s mother had a hand in his publishing deal that is still sending him checks today. Brown is an R&B crooner whose music career began with the boy group New Edition. The group was formed in the Orchard Park Projects of Roxbury, Boston, MA, and originally included Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, and Brown. Ralph Tresvant and Ronnie DeVoe joined later, notes The Grio. Their claim to fame was participating in a talent show in 1983 where they finished in second place, catching the attention of musician and producer Maurice Starr. The group signed to Starr under a deal with a $500 bonus . “Our royalty check was like $168 but we got $500 to sign and a VCR… We didn’t know anything about it,” Brown acknowledged on the “Club Shay Shay” podcast with Shannon Sharpe . “All we wanted was to perform. All we wanted to do was make enough money to go to the movies, buy candy, date girls. That’s all we thought about. We wasn’t thinking about the longevity.” New Edition then released their debut...

Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends and Influence People is one of the most influential self-improvement books of all time. First published in 1936, the book remains widely read today, offering timeless advice on communication, leadership , and building meaningful relationships. The book teaches practical strategies for improving social interactions, gaining influence, and fostering genuine connections—skills that are valuable in both personal and professional life. This summary explores the key principles and lessons from Carnegie’s book, breaking down the strategies that have helped people around the world build stronger relationships and succeed in business , leadership, and everyday interactions. The Core Idea Of The Book Carnegie’s philosophy centers around understanding human nature and using that knowledge to create positive interactions. The book argues that people respond best to appreciation, encouragement, and genuine interest rather than criticism or manipulation....

Marvin Sapp has long been a pillar of gospel music — but his story isn’t just about hits and accolades. It’s a calling from the divine, a testament to personal resilience, and an unwavering commitment to one’s purpose. With a voice that rings with power and conviction, Sapp has built a legacy that spans faith, music, and community leadership. Marvin Sapp Is More Than A Singer According to Sapp’s church website, the 58-year-old is often quick to clarify his identity: “Not a singer that happens to preach, but a preacher called by God who is gifted to sing.” That dual calling has shaped every step of his journey. From his start singing at the age of 4 to joining the legendary gospel group Commissioned in 1990, and eventually launching his solo career in 1996, Sapp’s artistry has always been an extension of his ministry. As a solo artist, he released influential projects, including “Grace and Mercy,” “Thirsty,” and “Here I Am.” His 2007 hit, “Never Would Have Made It,” became a cultural...

Bo Jackson remains one of the most legendary multi-sport athletes of all time, having excelled in both professional baseball and football. His unparalleled athleticism and dominance in two major sports made him a household name in the late 1980s and early 1990s. However, an injury ended his football career prematurely, forcing him to pivot toward business and other ventures. Unlike many former athletes who struggle financially after retirement, Jackson leveraged his brand and earnings into long-term financial success. With multiple revenue streams, including endorsements, real estate investments, and business ventures, he has maintained a strong financial standing. But how much is he worth today? Let’s explore his career earnings, business endeavors, and financial growth before revealing Bo Jackson’s net worth in 2025. Bo Jackson’s Athletic Career And Earnings Bo Jackson’s career began at Auburn University, where he won the Heisman Trophy in 1985, solidifying himself as one of the...

Tyler Perry has provided great financial relief for 85-year-old Anniece Tisdale. According to WSMV-4, Tisdale hired an unlicensed contractor to renovate her East Nashville, TN, home to accommodate her disability and growing family. However, the project took a turn for the worse when the contractor abandoned it altogether after not meeting completion expectations. Tisdale was then left with a home unsafe to live in and thousands of dollars lost. After an interview with the local news station, Tisdale was asked by Sherri Shepherd to appear on her “Sherri” talk show, and was joined by her daughter, Yolanda, who revealed that at least $180,000 had been invested into the home renovation project. Yolanda and her husband both took out personal loans and pooled from savings and credit cards to gather the funds. Yolanda also helped to refinance her mom’s mortgage to pay for the $200,000 in renovations. “We signed the contract in January. We were supposed to be f inished March 31. It was a...

Teyana Taylor has become a household name thanks to her work throughout the entertainment industry. Although she comes from a well positioned family, the mother of two has come into her own. Over the years, Taylor has developed her own image, style and money, even going on to coach other starlets into their most confident selves. W hether she’s topping the charts with her latest album, exercising her famous abs for a photoshoot or working on brand collabs , the multi-talent is making money moves. Teyana Taylor has built her own financial empire that just keeps on giving. Although she has been making headlines for her multi-million dollar divorce from NBA champion Iman Shumpert, she’s still got it . Here is what we know about Teyana Taylor’s net worth in 2025. How Did The “Rose In Harlem” Hitmaker Become Famous? (Brian Ach/WireImage) Teyana Taylor’s fame stems from a number of sources dating back to the mid-2000s. The performer grew up in Harlem, New York, as fans who listened to her...

From breaking records on the field to securing lucrative endorsements, DK Metcalf has established himself as a wide receiver to watch in the NFL. Since being drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2019, he has quickly risen to elite status, becoming one of the league’s most dominant offensive weapons. Known for his rare combination of size, speed and athleticism, Metcalf has delivered performances that showcase his stamina and strength, cementing his reputation as a game-changing playmaker. Off the field, the 27-year-old has successfully transformed his football stardom into financial success . His endorsements include partnerships with major companies such as Nike, Gatorade and Beats by Dre, further boosting his income and public profile. Additionally, he has ventured into business, capitalizing on opportunities in industries ranging from fitness to fashion. With a keen eye for branding and entrepreneurship, he has positioned himself as more than just an athlete – he’s a savvy...

Issa Rae is applauding those who are upholding DEI efforts. During SXSW 2025 in Austin, TX, the actress, producer, and newest part-owner of San Diego FC participated in a keynote conversation where she shared her thoughts on the evolving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) landscape, according to The Hollywood Reporter. A racial awakening occurred in 2020 following the death of George Floyd due to police brutality. This led to an influx of support and a record-breaking $4.3 billion in venture capital and corporate investments towards Black-owned businesses, per ABC News, as well as a 55% increase in DEI roles created, notes NBC News. As time has gone on, many of these bold commitments around DEI have faded out. This has only worsened due to pressures from conservative groups challenging such efforts in litigation, with some success. Legal wins for the right have included the dismantling of Fearless Fund’s Strivers Grant program, which awarded Black woman-owned businesses, and the...

Gillie Da Kid and Wallo helped squash a longtime beef between Cam’ron and Mase, leading to a major financial win. Cam’ron and Mase had been longtime friends as Harlem, NY, natives who played on the same high school basketball team, HotNewHipHi mentions . The duo later collaborated in the Hip Hop scene, forming the group Children of the Corn in 1993, which lasted for four years. Beyond the group, Cam’ron and Mase worked together once more on the single “Horse & Carriage,” featured on Cam’ron’s album “Confessions Of Fire” (1988), released by Sony. However, it was reported that Mase, who was signed to Bad Boy Records, requested $40,000 from Cam’ron to appear in the video, per The Fadar. Mase did not appear in the video, and a body double was used instead. Shortly after, in 1999, Mase stepped away from the music industry and became a pastor the same year he released his album “Double Up” (1999). “He went to church. I kinda didn’t understand it at the time because that’s my man all day,...