Suzanne de Passe Net Worth 2025: How Much Money Does She Make?

When you think of Hollywood power players, Suzanne de Passe is a name that stands out. With a career spanning decades, she has shaped the entertainment industry, working behind the scenes to bring some of the most iconic productions to life. From Motown to Hollywood, de Passe has built an impressive empire, and as of 2025, her net worth is estimated at $40 million.

Suzanne de Passe’s Net Worth and Career Achievements

Suzanne de Passe, born on July 19, 1946 (or 1947, or 1948, depending on the source) in New York City, has had an illustrious career as a producer, writer, and media executive. Her $40 million net worth is a testament to her relentless work ethic, creative genius, and ability to shape pop culture.

Early Life and Education: The Making of a Mogul

Raised in Harlem, New York, de Passe’s upbringing was deeply influenced by the rich cultural and artistic movements surrounding her. She attended the prestigious New Lincoln School before heading to Syracuse University, where she graduated in 1968. Her diverse background, with a mother of Jamaican descent and a father of Haitian and French descent, gave her a unique perspective that she carried into her career.

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Breaking into the Industry: The Motown Years

De Passe started her career at New York City’s Cheetah nightclub, but her big break came when she became a creative assistant to Berry Gordy Jr., the founder of Motown Records. This mentorship and opportunity allowed her to take Motown beyond music and into television and film.

During her time at Motown, she played a pivotal role in bringing the label’s biggest names to TV. She produced the legendary special “Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever”, which included the iconic moment when Michael Jackson introduced the world to the moonwalk. Her efforts helped establish Motown’s dominance beyond just music.

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De Passe Entertainment: Building an Empire

When Berry Gordy Jr. sold Motown in 1988, de Passe saw an opportunity. She acquired Motown Productions in 1989 and rebranded it as De Passe Entertainment. This decision catapulted her into the ranks of Hollywood’s top producers.

Notable Productions from De Passe Entertainment

• Lonesome Dove (1989) – The CBS miniseries was a massive success, winning multiple awards and solidifying de Passe’s place as a major TV producer.
• The Jacksons: An American Dream (1992) – This five-hour miniseries chronicling the Jackson family was a ratings hit on ABC.
• Class Act (1992) & Who’s the Man? (1993) – Both films showcased de Passe’s ability to connect with different audiences.
• Sister, Sister (1994-1999) – The hit sitcom starring Tia and Tamera Mowry became a beloved classic.
• Smart Guy (1997-1999) – Another successful sitcom that further demonstrated her keen eye for youth-oriented entertainment.
• The Temptations (1998) – Another music-centered miniseries that proved to be a hit for NBC.
• Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century (1999) – A Disney Channel original that led to two sequels, solidifying de Passe’s presence in children’s entertainment.
• Showtime at the Apollo (2002-2008, 2016-2018) – A legendary variety show that featured some of the biggest names in entertainment.

Her ability to successfully produce content across different genres and generations is one of the reasons she remains one of Hollywood’s most respected figures.

Screenwriting and Breaking Barriers

Beyond producing, Suzanne de Passe is also an accomplished screenwriter. She co-wrote the screenplay for the 1972 film Lady Sings the Blues, starring Diana Ross as Billie Holiday. This film was a huge success, and de Passe became the first African American to be nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Academy Awards.

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This nomination was a historic milestone for Black creatives in Hollywood and remains one of de Passe’s most significant achievements.

Personal Life and Real Estate Investments

De Passe was married to actor Paul Le Mat from 1978 to 1994 and has three children. While she has largely kept her personal life private, her business acumen extends beyond entertainment.

• In 1989, she purchased a home in Beverly Hills for $110,000.
• Today, that property is worth an estimated $5 million, a testament to her savvy real estate investments.

Legacy and Influence in the Entertainment Industry

Few figures in Hollywood can match Suzanne de Passe’s impact. She has mentored countless artists, producers, and executives, paving the way for more diversity in media.

Her trailblazing career has inspired a new generation of Black creatives, proving that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about vision, persistence, and the courage to break barriers.

A Powerhouse of Influence

Suzanne de Passe’s journey from a creative assistant at Motown to a multimillionaire entertainment mogul is nothing short of legendary. With a net worth of $40 million, she has cemented her place in Hollywood history, proving that determination, talent, and business savvy can create an enduring legacy.

Her contributions to music, television, and film will continue to shape the entertainment industry for years to come, making her one of the most influential women in entertainment history.