Billionaire Profile
Timothy Headington
Global Rank
#2834

Image: John Sears | CC BY-SA 4.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Timothy Headington

CEO, Oil & gas
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.239B
Estimated based on Oil & gas stock value as of March 6, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
75
Source
Oil & gas, investments
Industry
Energy
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

Timothy Headington, born in 1950, is a prominent American businessman, real estate developer, and film producer with a net worth of $2.7 billion. His wealth stems from oil and gas ventures, complemented by diverse investments. Headington founded Headington Oil in 1978, expanding into Headington Resources, Inc., which has interests in real estate, hotel development, film production, and private equity. His career has included a significant sale of oil acreage and involvement in award-winning films like "Hugo." He is known for his active role in philanthropy, contributing to arts, education, and health sectors.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Timothy Clare Headington was born in 1950. Inspired by his geologist father, Clare W. Headington, he developed an early interest in the energy sector. He attended the University of Oklahoma, earning a bachelor's degree in history. Headington pursued further studies, receiving graduate degrees in theology and psychology from Fuller Theological Seminary. He completed a psychology residency at Los Angeles County Hospital and was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Oklahoma.

Rise to Success in Oil and Gas

In 1978, Headington founded Headington Oil in Oklahoma City, later moving the company to Dallas. The company later evolved into Headington Resources, Inc. Under his leadership, the company became a major player in the oil and gas industry, exploring and producing in major U.S. basins. A pivotal moment in his career was the 2008 sale of his North Dakota Bakken oil play acreage to XTO Energy for $1.85 billion.

Diversification and Film Production

Not content with success in the oil industry, Headington diversified his interests. He ventured into real estate, developing high-end boutique hotels in downtown Dallas, including The Joule and Hotel Lumen. Headington also invested in film production, partnering with GK Films and forming production companies like Tango Entertainment and Ley Line Entertainment. His filmography includes award-winning features such as "Hugo," "Argo," and "World War Z."

Philanthropy

Headington is actively involved in philanthropy. He is the co-founder of the Headington Institute, a non-profit organization that provides psychological support for humanitarian workers and first responders. He supports arts, education, and health initiatives in his community through personal and family foundations.

Career Milestones

1978

Founded Headington Oil

Established Headington Oil, the foundation of his business empire.

2008

Sold Bakken Oil Fields

Sold oil fields for $1.85 billion, significantly increasing his wealth.

2011

Honorary Doctorate

Awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Oklahoma.

2013

Oklahoma Hall of Fame

Inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Humanitarian Aid

Headington Institute

Undisclosed

Co-founded the Headington Institute to support caregivers worldwide.