Jimmie Walker, best known for his role as J.J. Evans on the 1970s sitcom “Good Times,” has been a prominent figure in American television and comedy. His catchphrase “Dyn-o-mite!” became a cultural phenomenon, cementing his place in entertainment history. Over the years, there has been speculation about his financial standing, with some sources suggesting a net worth of $2 million. However, recent evaluations indicate otherwise.
Personal Details
| Full Name | James Carter Walker Jr. |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 25, 1947 |
| Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
| Profession | Actor, Comedian |
| Years Active | 1969–present |
| Notable Role | J.J. Evans in “Good Times” |
| Catchphrase | “Dyn-o-mite!” |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in Brooklyn and raised in The Bronx, Walker attended Theodore Roosevelt High School. He participated in the SEEK program, which introduced him to radio engineering, leading to a position at WRVR, a New York City radio station. In 1969, he ventured into stand-up comedy, making appearances on shows like “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In” and “The Jack Paar Show.”
Rise to Fame with “Good Times”
Walker’s portrayal of James “J.J.” Evans Jr. on “Good Times” (1974–1979) brought him national acclaim. His character’s signature exclamation, “Dyn-o-mite!”, became widely popular, leading to two Golden Globe nominations. Despite the show’s success, there were internal conflicts, with co-stars expressing concerns over the portrayal of Walker’s character.
Post-“Good Times” Endeavors
After “Good Times,” Walker continued acting in films like “Let’s Do It Again” (1975) and “Airplane!” (1980). He also appeared in TV series such as “At Ease” (1983) and “Bustin’ Loose” (1987–1988). Returning to his stand-up roots, he toured extensively and hosted radio shows on stations including WOAI and WLS.
Current Net Worth Assessment
As of 2025, Jimmie Walker’s net worth is estimated at $800,000, which is below the previously speculated $2 million. This valuation reflects his earnings from acting, stand-up comedy, radio hosting, and his 2012 memoir, “Dynomite!: Good Times, Bad Times, Our Times.”
Personal Life and Perspectives
Walker has never married and has no children. Politically, he identifies as a “realist independent,” expressing conservative views on various topics. In 2012, he voiced opposition to affirmative action and, while morally against gay marriage, supported its legalization.
Final Thought
While earlier reports suggested Jimmie Walker’s net worth was around $2 million, current assessments place it at approximately $800,000. His enduring contributions to entertainment, especially through “Good Times” and his stand-up comedy, have left a lasting impact on American pop culture.