Gary Magness

CEO, Cable One

Real-Time Net Worth

$1.4B

As of December 2025

Age

Source

Cable TV, investments

Industry

media-entertainment

Citizenship

Biography

Gary Magness is an American businessman and film producer, recognized for his diverse ventures and contributions to both business and entertainment. His wealth stems from his father's Tele-Communications Inc. (TCI) and subsequent investments in Cable TV. He is the chairman of Magness Investment Group, which boasts a diverse investment portfolio. He is the founder of Smokewood Entertainment, which has produced several successful films. His career is marked by impactful achievements and a commitment to various philanthropic endeavors. Currently, his net worth is estimated at $1.4 billion.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Gary Magness was born in Texas and raised in Bozeman, Montana. He is the son of Bob Magness, the founder of Tele-Communications Inc. (TCI), a major cable television company. Growing up, Magness was immersed in the cable industry, and his first job involved building microwave towers and stringing coaxial cable. He attended Western State College of Colorado but dropped out.

Rise to Success

Gary Magness inherited a significant portion of his father's wealth, which originated from TCI. TCI merged with AT&T in 1999 in a deal valued at $48 billion. Magness then focused on his investments, including oil, gas, cattle, and real estate. He is the chairman of the Magness Investment Group, which has a diverse portfolio.

Key Business Strategies

Magness has strategically managed his inherited wealth through diversified investments, including cattle ranching (Magness Land & Cattle) and real estate. He co-founded Smokewood Entertainment with his wife, Sarah Siegel-Magness.

Philanthropy

Gary Magness is involved in philanthropy, supporting various organizations and causes. He has contributed to The Fresh Air Fund, the Food Bank of the Rockies, and the University of Denver.

Career Milestones

1968

TCI Merger

His father's company, Tele-Communications Inc. (TCI), merged with AT&T, leading to significant wealth for the family.

1999

TCI-AT&T Merger

The merger of TCI and AT&T in a $48 billion deal, resulting in Gary Magness inheriting a significant portion of the family fortune.

2007

Smokewood Entertainment

Co-founded Smokewood Entertainment with his wife, Sarah Siegel-Magness.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Children's Charities

The Fresh Air Fund

$XB

Donated to The Fresh Air Fund.

Food Banks

Food Bank of the Rockies

$XB

Made charitable donations to the Food Bank of the Rockies.

Education

University of Denver

$XB

Made charitable donations to the University of Denver.