Whatever Happened to the 80s Infomercial Stars? Where Are They Now—and Are They Still Millionaires?

Whatever Happened to the 80s Infomercial Stars? Where Are They Now—and Are They Still Millionaires?

Ah, the 1980s. Big hair, neon leg warmers, and late-night TV ruled by the kings and queens of infomercials. They were larger-than-life personalities who turned household gadgets into goldmines—and themselves into overnight celebrities. But as trends faded and TV shifted, many of these stars disappeared from the spotlight.

So where are they now? Are they still living off infomercial millions, or did they ride the hype train into financial ruin? Let’s take a nostalgic journey and catch up with the most memorable 80s infomercial icons.

Ron Popeil – The OG Pitchman

Then: The founder of Ronco and inventor of iconic products like the Showtime Rotisserie (“Set it and forget it!”), Popeil was a trailblazer in direct response marketing.
Now: Ron Popeil passed away in 2021 at age 86, but not before cashing out big. He reportedly sold Ronco for $55 million in 2005. His legacy lives on in every “as seen on TV” aisle.
Millionaire Status: ✔️ Still had his millions.

Tony Little – The Gazelle Guru

Then: With his ponytail, boundless energy, and signature scream of “You can do it!”, Tony Little sold millions of Gazelle gliders and fitness videos.
Now: Still active in fitness and product endorsements, Tony runs his own brand and pops up occasionally on HSN and social media.
Millionaire Status: ✔️ Yes, estimated net worth over $200 million at peak, though it has fluctuated.

Susan Powter – Stop the Insanity!

Then: A buzzcut blonde with a megaphone message—Susan Powter’s 90s-era weight-loss infomercials were everywhere.
Now: Susan retreated from the spotlight, living a quieter life in New Mexico and blogging occasionally. She’s been candid about financial struggles post-fame.
Millionaire Status: ❌ Lost much of her fortune.

Billy Mays – The Voice of Power

Then: Though his fame exploded in the early 2000s, Billy got his start in the late 80s with live demos at state fairs.
Now: Tragically passed Billy Mays away in 2009. At the time, his estimated net worth was $10 million.
Millionaire Status: ✔️ Left behind a fortune.

Cherie Calbom – The Juicing Lady

Then: Known as “The Juice Lady,” Cherie starred in Jack LaLanne’s juicer infomercials and wrote best-selling books on detoxing.
Now: Cherie still writes and speaks on health and nutrition, running her own wellness programs.
Millionaire Status: ✔️ Comfortable niche success.

Kevin Trudeau – From TV to Prison

Then: Sold everything from memory systems to miracle cures on late-night infomercials.
Now: Serving time for criminal contempt and fraud related to his promotions.
Millionaire Status: ❌ Assets seized—no longer a millionaire.

Richard Simmons – America’s Fitness Sweetheart

Then: His energy was infectious, and his Sweatin’ to the Oldies workouts were bestsellers.
Now: Largely reclusive since the mid-2010s. Richard Simmon‘s net worth remains substantial thanks to licensing deals.
Millionaire Status: ✔️ Still a millionaire.

The Rise and Fade of TV Fame

While some 80s infomercial stars parlayed their charisma into long-term wealth, others fell victim to bad deals, legal trouble, or simply vanished as trends changed. But one thing’s for sure: they helped shape the As Seen on TV industry into a cultural force.

Honorable Mentions:

• Jack LaLanne: Passed away in 2011. Still a fitness legend. ✔️
• Victoria Jackson (cosmetics): Continued brand success with a pivot to online. ✔️
• Don Lapre: Infamous for get-rich-quick infomercials, died in custody in 2011. ❌

Final Thoughts

The 80s infomercial era was unlike any other. These stars weren’t just selling products—they were selling dreams, identities, and the promise of a better you. Some still live off that legacy. Others, not so much.

Want to dive deeper into the legacy of DRTV legends? Check out our Top Infomercial Producers of All Time and relive the magic—and the madness—of TV’s golden sales age.