Billionaire Profile
Gary Magness
Global Rank
#2787

Image: magerleagues | CC BY-SA 2.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Gary Magness

CEO, Cable TV
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.396B
Estimated based on Cable TV stock value as of April 20, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
72
Source
Cable TV, investments
Industry
Media & Entertainment
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

Gary Magness is an American businessman, film producer, and philanthropist. Born in Texas and raised in Montana, he is primarily known for his inheritance from his father, Bob Magness, the founder of Tele-Communications Inc. (TCI), a major cable television company. Magness's wealth stems from cable TV and investments. He currently serves as the Chairman of GMAG Holdings Corp., a private holding company based in Denver, Colorado. His career includes producing award-winning films through Smokewood Entertainment, which he co-founded with his wife, Sarah Siegel-Magness. His estimated net worth is $1.4 billion as of March 2026. He is also involved in philanthropic activities.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Gary Magness was born in Texas in 1954. He is the son of Bob Magness, the founder of Tele-Communications Inc. (TCI). Gary grew up in Bozeman, Montana, and later moved to Denver, Colorado, with his family.

Rise to Success

Gary inherited a significant portion of his father's wealth, primarily from TCI. TCI merged with AT&T in 1999 for $48 billion. Gary's early career involved working in the cable business, including stringing coaxial cable. He later became the chairman of GMAG Holdings Corp., a private holding company overseeing a diverse investment portfolio.

Key Business Strategies

Magness's business interests include cable-related entities, real estate, oil, gas, and investments. He has diversified his investments, with significant holdings. He has also been involved in agribusiness, owning Magness Land & Cattle. His company, Smokewood Entertainment, has produced multiple films, including the Oscar-winning "Precious."

Philanthropy

Gary Magness is involved in philanthropy through the Gary Magness Family Foundation, which supports various causes. He has also made charitable donations to several organizations. His contributions support education, and human services. Magness also donates the prize money he earns from off-road racing to Mexican villages.

Career Milestones

1999

TCI-AT&T Merger

Inherited hundreds of millions in stock after TCI merged with AT&T in a $48 billion deal.

1998

Founded GMAG Holdings Corp.

Founded a private holding company overseeing operating businesses and investments.

2007

Co-founded Smokewood Entertainment

Co-founded film production company with his wife, Sarah Siegel-Magness.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Philanthropy

Gary Magness Family Foundation

$1.2M

Supports education, philanthropy, and human services, primarily in Colorado and California.