Bret Hart, the Canadian-American wrestling legend, and accomplished writer, has left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. Known for his remarkable championship reigns spanning five decades, he has graced the rings of WWE, WCW, and WWF, earning two well-deserved spots in the WWE Hall of Fame.
As of October 2023, Bret Hart’s net worth stands at a formidable $14 million, a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of sports entertainment.
Early Life
Bret Hart’s journey into the world of professional wrestling was practically written in the stars. Born on July 2, 1957, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, he hailed from the illustrious Hart wrestling family. His father, Stu Hart, was renowned for training wrestlers in his famous basement, aptly named “The Dungeon.”
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Growing up as the eighth child among eleven siblings, including seven brothers and four sisters, Bret was no stranger to sibling rivalry. In the heart of the family mansion, he began his wrestling training at an early age, honing his skills as an amateur wrestler at Ernest Manning High School.
In the mid-1970s, despite his initial path in filmmaking at Mount Royal College, Hart’s wrestling potential took center stage as he ventured into the world of professional wrestling with Stampede Wrestling in 1976.
Career
Bret Hart’s wrestling journey reached its zenith during his six-year tenure with Stampede Wrestling. His transition to the WWF marked a turning point as he joined forces with his brother-in-law, Jim Neidhart, forming the iconic Hart Foundation. In the early 1990s, he clinched his first WWF Intercontinental Championship, followed by a triumphant win at the 1991 King of the Ring tournament.
Hart’s ascent continued as he claimed the WWF Championship and faced off against some of the industry’s most prominent figures. An epic feud with Steve Austin in the late 1990s preceded his move to WCW, where he rose to the status of the United States Heavyweight Champion.
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Even after retiring from in-ring competition in 2000, Bret Hart remains a key figure in the wrestling world. He actively promotes his ventures through the official Bret Hart website, writes columns on sports, and authored an autobiography in 2007. Additionally, he made cameo appearances on popular shows like “The Simpsons.”
Bret Hart’s Career Earnings
Bret Hart’s journey in wrestling spanned several decades, leading to a significant increase in his earnings, albeit followed by a decline post his career peak. Here’s an approximate breakdown of his career earnings:
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Bret Hart’s Salary in 1986: $4,000
Bret Hart’s Salary in 1987: $15,000
Bret Hart’s Salary in 1989: $10,000
Bret Hart’s Salary in 1992: $55,000
Bret Hart’s Salary in 1995: $3 million
Bret Hart’s Salary in 1996: $3 million
Bret Hart’s Salary in 1997: $2.5 million
Bret Hart’s Salary in 2005: $1.4 million
Bret Hart’s Salary in 2022: $200,000
Bret Hart’s Net Worth in 2023
As of 2023, Bret Hart’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $14 million. His earnings primarily originate from his tenure in WWF, contributions to the world of acting and writing, and his co-ownership of the Calgary Hitmen in the Western Hockey League.
Bret Hart’s Charity and Foundation Work
Bret Hart is not just a wrestling icon but also a compassionate philanthropist. His efforts include a $10,000 donation from the Canada Walk of Fame, which he chose to split between the Siksika Country’s SN7 youth program and the Water First foundation. The latter focuses on providing access to clean water in Native communities in Canada.
He has also rallied support for wildfire-affected individuals in Alberta through social media campaigns. Additionally, Bret Hart supports the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), a prominent cancer research organization.
Bret Hart’s House
Bret Hart and his family reside in the opulent Hart House, nestled in Calgary, Alberta. This 5,600-square-foot mansion sits on 2.17 acres of land and boasts 22 rooms, four fireplaces, five candle holders from the McDonald Hotel, and a coach house. It even houses a gym and a training school known as “The Dungeon,” used to train aspiring wrestlers and athletes.
Bret Hart’s Car Collection
The Hitman may have a reputation for a simple lifestyle, but his car collection tells a different story. His impressive collection includes:
Ferrari 458: Priced at $263,553
Lexus: Valued at $40,000
Range Rover: With a price tag of $131,000
Bentley: A luxury ride costing $220,000
DB11: A sophisticated car valued at $210,000
Bret Hart’s wrestling career may have cemented his legendary status, but his diverse endeavors, including acting, writing, and philanthropy, continue to shape his incredible legacy. With a remarkable net worth and a heart dedicated to charity, he is a true icon inside and outside the ring.
