And now, for a story to make us all feel a little sorry for ourselves, Forbes has just released its top 100 highest paid celebrities.
Tallying earnings between June 2015 and June 2016, the list has shifted drastically from last year where the top spot was occupied by Floyd Mayweather ($300 million). He was followed by his famous opponent, Manny Pacquiao.
This year, the top 100 pulled in a combined $5.1 billion (pretax) over the past 12 months, more than the GDP of Belize, Gambia and Bhutan combined.
Here’s the top five, who sure are an eclectic bunch of humans:
4. (tie) Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo is still on top as the world’s highest-paid athlete, with $88 million a year. The soccer god just clinched a major EuroCup win for the national team of Portugal, but it’s the Real Madrid team that’s paying out of pocket to keep his prodigious skill on their side. His slew of major sponsorships doesn’t hurt, either.
4. (tie) Dr. Phil McGraw
The helpful TV personality is making more than ever, moving up from last year’s 15th spot as he continues to take cuts from his daytime TV gig, a health app, and medication partnerships.
3. James Patterson
The best-selling author is one of the most prolific writers around, and his impressive output has led him on a steady rise up the earnings ranks. TV adaptations boost the bottom line; he brought in $95 million.
2. One Direction
The heartthrob British boy band may have had a member quit and then decided to take a group hiatus, but the global pop sensation still managed to make it a record year, bringing in $110 million thanks to their stadium tour.
And can you guess who number one is?
Give it up for TSwizzle.
Coming in at number eight last year, Taylor Swift’s album 1989 as well as her world tour sure helped her to sky rocket to first place.
Her total net worth now stands at $250 million.
Casual.
Forbes did well by putting together a rad interactive website, so you can read all about the top 100 HERE.
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