Billionaire Profile
John de Mol
Global Rank
#2045

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

John de Mol

CEO, Talpa Network
NL
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.9B
As of December 2025
Age
70
Source
TV programs
Industry
media-entertainment
Citizenship
NL

Biography

John de Mol, a Dutch media mogul, is a prominent figure in the global entertainment industry, known for creating and popularizing reality television formats. With an estimated net worth of $1.9 billion, de Mol is a major source of wealth through his innovative TV programs and production companies. His career, marked by the founding of Endemol and Talpa Media, has transformed the television landscape, with hits like 'Big Brother' and 'The Voice' airing worldwide. De Mol's contributions have earned him a reputation as a leading entrepreneur in the media and entertainment sector.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Johannes Hendrikus Hubert de Mol Jr. was born on April 24, 1955, in The Hague, Netherlands. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry, with his father, John de Mol Sr., as a radio and television host, he developed an early interest in media. His initial academic pursuits led him to study economics at the University of Amsterdam, but his passion shifted towards television production.

Rise to Success

De Mol's career took off in the 1970s as a producer for various television shows. In 1994, he co-founded Endemol, a production company that would become a global leader. Endemol produced a variety of successful shows, including 'Big Brother,' 'Fear Factor,' and 'Deal or No Deal'. De Mol is credited with creating some of the most successful reality TV formats in history, including 'Big Brother,' 'Star Academy,' and 'The Voice'. Forbes listed him as one of the richest people in the world in 2005. He later founded Talpa Media Holding.

Key Business Strategies

De Mol's business acumen is characterized by innovation and strategic acquisitions. He sold Endemol shares to Telefónica but remained as creative director until 2004. He then founded Talpa Media, and acquired SBS Broadcasting's Dutch operations. In 2017, Talpa Network was created, consolidating his media assets.

Philanthropy

Specific amounts and details of John de Mol's philanthropy are not readily available through a search.

Career Milestones

1970s

Early Career

Began his career in the entertainment industry as a producer for various television shows.

1994

Co-founded Endemol

Co-founded Endemol, a production company that became a global leader.

2000

Sold Endemol Share

Sold his share of Endemol to Telefonica but remained as creative director until 2004.

2005

Founded Talpa Media Holding

Founded Talpa Media Holding.

2017

Created Talpa Network

Created Talpa Network, consolidating his Dutch media activities.