Ever wondered how much the creator of IMDb is worth?
Col Needham net worth has been a topic of curiosity, given IMDb’s massive influence in the film industry.
From a personal movie database to an Amazon-owned giant, Needham’s journey has been remarkable.
But how does his wealth compare to other tech pioneers? Let’s dive into his financial status, salary, and revenue sources.
Col Needham Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Colin Needham |
| Popular Name | Col Needham |
| Birth Date | January 26, 1967 |
| Age | 58 (as of 02/25/2025) |
| Birthplace | Denton, Lancashire, England |
| Nationality | English |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | University of Leeds, Audenshaw School, Clarendon Sixth Form College |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Karen Gaskin |
| Children | Twin daughters |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | N/A |
| Height | 1.80 meters |
| Net Worth | $50 million (estimated) |
| Source of Wealth | IMDb, Amazon acquisition |
What is the Net Worth of Col Needham in 2025?
As of 2025, Col Needham’s net worth is estimated at $50 million. His wealth primarily comes from IMDb, which he founded in 1990 and later sold to Amazon in 1998.
Unlike other tech entrepreneurs, Needham’s fortune is relatively modest compared to giants like Jeff Bezos or Mark Zuckerberg, but it remains substantial within the film and media industry.
Here are some key figures related to Needham:
- Amazon
- IMDb
- Hewlett-Packard
- Webby Awards
- University of Leeds
Want to know more about the world’s wealthiest people? Check out this list of the top richest celebrities.
Col Needham Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did He Build His Wealth?
Col Needham’s financial journey began with a passion for movies and technology.
Before founding IMDb, he worked as an engineer at Hewlett-Packard. His film database started as a personal project, which later turned into an online bulletin board.
IMDb’s first big break came in 1996, when it secured an advertising campaign for the blockbuster Independence Day. The success of this campaign allowed Needham to quit his job and work on IMDb full-time.
In 1998, Amazon acquired IMDb, significantly boosting its financial value. This acquisition not only secured Needham’s fortune but also positioned IMDb as the go-to platform for movie enthusiasts worldwide.
What Is His Salary and Earnings from IMDb?
As the former CEO of IMDb, Needham likely received a competitive salary. However, exact figures are not publicly disclosed. In 2025, he transitioned to the role of Executive Chairman, which may have changed his earnings structure.
IMDb, now an Amazon subsidiary, generates revenue through advertising, licensing deals, and subscription services. While Needham no longer runs day-to-day operations, he remains financially tied to the company.
How Does IMDb Generate Revenue?
IMDb’s wealth is tied to multiple revenue streams, including:
- Advertising – IMDb runs ads for movie studios, streaming platforms, and brands.
- IMDbPro Subscriptions – Industry professionals pay for premium services.
- Licensing Deals – IMDb licenses its data to third-party platforms.
The acquisition by Amazon also integrated IMDb into Prime Video, adding another layer of monetization.
What Other Financial Ventures Has He Pursued?
Unlike many tech entrepreneurs, Needham hasn’t publicly pursued multiple business ventures. However, he has played an advisory role in the film and technology industry.
Additionally, he has been involved in philanthropic efforts related to film preservation and technology education. His wealth growth largely remains tied to IMDb and its continued success.
How Has His Wealth Grown Over Time?
- 1990 – Founded IMDb as a personal project.
- 1996 – IMDb secures its first major advertising deal.
- 1998 – Amazon acquires IMDb, increasing Needham’s financial success.
- 1999 – Wins two Webby Awards for IMDb’s impact.
- 2017 – Removes IMDb message boards, focusing on modernization.
- 2025 – Steps down as CEO, transitioning to Executive Chairman.
While his net worth hasn’t skyrocketed like other tech giants, it has remained stable due to IMDb’s lasting relevance.
How Does His Wealth Compare to Other Tech Entrepreneurs?
Compared to Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, or Elon Musk, Needham’s fortune is modest. However, within the film and entertainment industry, he remains a significant figure.
His wealth is more in line with Kevin Feige (Marvel Studios President) or Ted Sarandos (Netflix Co-CEO), who have shaped the media industry but are not among the world’s billionaires.
What Is His Lifestyle and Spending Habits?
Needham leads a relatively private life. Unlike other tech entrepreneurs, he hasn’t publicly flaunted luxury cars or extravagant properties.
He resides in Filton, England, with his family, maintaining a low-profile lifestyle. While details of his personal investments are not public, his main asset remains IMDb and its continued profitability under Amazon.
Conclusion
Col Needham’s financial success is built on innovation, persistence, and a love for film. While he may not be among the world’s wealthiest, his contributions to the film and tech industry are undeniable.
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