Johnny Knoxville, born Philip John Clapp, is an American stunt performer, actor, and producer who has made a name for himself through his daring stunts and outrageous humor.
Known for co-creating and starring in the MTV reality stunt show “Jackass,” Knoxville has become a household name in the entertainment industry.
In this article, you will learn about Johnny Knoxville’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Johnny Knoxville’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Philip John Clapp |
| Born | March 11, 1971 |
| Birthplace | Knoxville, Tennessee, USA |
| Height | 6’1″ (1.85 m) |
| Nicknames | Johnny Jackass, PJ, JJ Knoxville, The Captain |
| Education | South Young High School |
| Parents | Philip Clapp (father), Lemoyne Clapp (mother) |
Early Career
Johnny Knoxville’s journey into the entertainment world began with a desire to become an actor.
After reading Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road,” he was inspired to pursue a career in show business.
He started doing commercials and eventually began pitching article ideas to magazines.
Professional Career
Knoxville’s breakthrough came with the creation of “Jackass” in 2000. The MTV show featured Knoxville and his friends performing dangerous stunts and pranks, quickly gaining a cult following.
The show’s success led to several feature films, including “Jackass: The Movie” (2002), “Jackass Number Two” (2006), and “Jackass 3D” (2010).
Beyond the Jackass franchise, Knoxville has appeared in various films such as “Men in Black II,” “The Dukes of Hazzard,” and “Bad Grandpa.”
Knoxville’s production company, Dickhouse Productions, has been behind several successful projects, further cementing his status in the entertainment industry.
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Wife
Johnny Knoxville has been married twice. His first marriage was to Melanie Lynn Cates from 1995 to 2008, with whom he has a daughter, Madison.
After their divorce, Knoxville married Naomi Nelson in 2010. They have 2 children together: a son, Rocko, and a daughter, Arlo.
However, in June 2022, Knoxville filed for divorce from Nelson, citing irreconcilable differences.
Johnny Knoxville’s Net Worth Details
Johnny Knoxville’s net worth is estimated to be $50 million as of 2025.
Contract
Knoxville has had deals with MTV for the Jackass franchise and has signed production deals with Paramount Pictures and ABC through his company, Hello Junior.
Career Earnings
| Project/Role | Earnings |
|---|---|
| Walking Tall (2004) | $5,000,000 |
| Jackass Franchise | Estimated $90 million total |
| The Dukes of Hazzard (2005) | Estimated $5 million |
| Bad Grandpa (2013) | Percentage of $152 million box office |
Endorsements
- Mountain Dew
- Converse All Stars
- Adio Footwear
- Vans
Career Records
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Highest-Grossing Jackass Film | Jackass 3D (2010) – $171.7 million worldwide |
| Most Successful Non-Jackass Film | Men in Black II (2002) – $441.8 million worldwide |
| Longest-Running TV Show | Jackass (2000-2001, 2022-present) |
| Most Successful Production | Bad Grandpa (2013) – $152 million on a $15 million budget |
FAQs
1. What is Johnny Knoxville best known for in his entertainment career?
Knoxville is best known as the co-creator and star of the “Jackass” franchise, where he performed outrageous stunts and pranks on MTV and in a series of hit feature films.
2. What is Knoxville’s real name and when was he born?
Born Philip John Clapp on March 11, 1971, in Knoxville, Tennessee, he later adopted his hometown’s name as his professional moniker when launching his acting career.
3. How did “Jackass” originate and what was Knoxville’s role?
“Jackass” started when Knoxville tested self-defense equipment on himself, catching attention for his daredevil spirit. He became the show’s central figure, leading a cast of fellow stuntmen.
4. Which movies and television projects outside “Jackass” has Knoxville appeared in?
Knoxville starred in films like “The Dukes of Hazzard,” “Bad Grandpa,” “Men in Black II,” and “Walking Tall.” He’s made TV cameos and taken on producing and writing roles in the entertainment industry.
5. Has Knoxville suffered any injuries because of his career?
He sustained numerous serious injuries performing stunts, including broken bones, concussions, and surgeries. His willingness to endure pain became a key part of his public persona.
6. What personal qualities and comedic strengths define Knoxville’s appeal?
Knoxville is admired for fearlessness, deadpan delivery, and comedic timing. His genuine reactions, commitment to absurdity, and ability to inspire teamwork made him an audience favorite.
7. What awards or honors has Knoxville received for his work?
While not commonly recognized by mainstream awards, Knoxville and “Jackass” received multiple MTV Movie & TV Awards and developed a loyal fanbase, influencing reality comedy around the world.
8. Has Knoxville worked in any charitable or advocacy efforts?
He supports children’s hospitals, advocates for injured stunt performers, and participates in fundraising campaigns, often using his fame to support causes related to health and safety.
9. What is Knoxville’s family background and personal life like?
He has been married twice and has three children. Known for strong family ties, Knoxville sometimes draws inspiration from his Southern upbringing and relationships outside show business.
10. What is Knoxville’s ongoing role in entertainment after the height of “Jackass”?
He continues to produce, act, and create. Knoxville remains active with new “Jackass” projects, voice acting, and producing TV and film content, adapting his creative talents for new audiences.
