Billy Blanks Jr. is an American fitness personality. He is the son of martial artist and Tae Bo creator Billy Blanks.
He is best known for his appearance on Shark Tank, where he secured an investment in his fitness media, leading to the worldwide Dance It Out fitness class program and franchise.
RELATED: Andy Jassy Net Worth: The Cloud Kingpin’s Financial Chronicle
Table of Contents
Billy Blanks Jr Net Worth
Billy Blanks Jr. has a net worth of $5 million. Concerned that his work would be lost to the competing franchise, Blanks initially declined an offer in front of the Sharks.
However, on his way to record the post-show interview, John followed him to the holding room, explained how the branding would work, and persuaded Blanks to accept the deal, which involved $100,000 and a 50% stake in the company.
Early Life
Blanks was born to Billy and Gayle Blanks. He grew up in the Boston area. At age 9, he was cast in a production of The Little Rascals. In an interview with ACT: Dance Model Sing magazine, he said he was initially told he was too young for a production of 42nd Street but could help the crew.
However, when the director saw him imitating tap choreography, he was cast in the show. Blanks Sr. moved to Los Angeles after getting a job as a bodyguard for actress Catherine Bach, and the family followed soon after.
Career
In 2007, Blanks created “Cardioke,” a cardio dance workout featuring karaoke singing that caught the attention of ABC News. Cardioke was promoted on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. On December 10, 2017, his former manager Anthony Riccio filed a lawsuit against him for contractual fraud,
claiming they developed the concept of mixing cardio and karaoke and that Riccio coined the term “cardioke,” while Blanks preferred “Karaokecise.” Riccio argued he should have received more revenue and rights over the brand. Blanks also said his father was not supportive of his dance fitness concept.
Personal Life
Blanks married actress Sharon Brown. They taught dance and fitness classes together, and she appeared in Blanks’s Dance With Me videos and the Dance It Out classes. They have an adopted son, Elijah. The couple divorced in 2016.
What is Billy Blanks Jr Doing Now?
Currently, Billy Blanks Jr. serves as the president of Kibu, a platform offering adaptive fitness classes for people with disabilities. This project highlights his commitment to inclusivity in fitness, providing accessible workout options for a diverse audience.
Conclusion
Billy Blanks Jr.’s journey from the son of a fitness legend to a respected figure in the industry is a story of resilience, innovation, and dedication. With a net worth of $5 million, he has not only built a successful career but has also contributed significantly to making fitness enjoyable and accessible to all.
RELATED: Daniel Ricciardo Net Worth: Racing Past Financial Milestones
FAQs about Billy Blanks Jr
- How did Billy Blanks Jr. differentiate his fitness approach from his father’s? Billy Blanks Jr. focused on creating a more inclusive and fun approach to fitness, incorporating dance and accessible workouts, in contrast to his father’s intense Tae Bo program.
- What was the turning point in Billy Blanks Jr.’s career? Appearing on “Shark Tank” and rejecting, then later accepting, a deal for his “Dance It Out” program marked a significant turning point, leading to the program’s success.
- Has Billy Blanks Jr. received any financial support from his father? Despite his father’s success, Billy Blanks Jr. reportedly did not receive financial assistance, building his career and net worth independently.
- What are some of Billy Blanks Jr.’s most popular workout programs? “Dance It Out” and “Cardioke” are among Blanks Jr.’s most popular workout programs, blending fitness with dance and music to engage participants.
- What drives Billy Blanks Jr.’s passion for fitness? Growing up in a fitness-focused household and recognizing the need for more accessible workout options fueled Blanks Jr.’s passion for creating inclusive and enjoyable fitness programs.
