Jennette McCurdy

Jennette McCurdy rose to fame as Sam Puckett on Nickelodeon’s hit series iCarly, which aired from 2007 to 2012. She reprised the role in the spinoff Sam & Cat alongside Ariana Grande from 2013 to 2014. McCurdy began acting at age eight, driven largely by her mother’s ambitions, and quickly became one of the most recognizable faces on children’s television. Her comedic timing and physical comedy made her a fan favorite, and she earned several Kids’ Choice Award nominations during her Nickelodeon years.

After stepping away from acting, McCurdy transitioned into writing and directing. She created and starred in her own web series, What’s Next for Sarah?, and directed several short films that screened at film festivals. Her creative pivot demonstrated a depth and artistic ambition that went well beyond her child-star origins. She also launched a popular podcast called Empty Inside, where she conducted candid interviews about mental health and personal struggles.

In 2022, McCurdy published her memoir, I’m Glad My Mom Died, which became a massive bestseller. The book detailed the emotional abuse she suffered from her mother and the pressures of child stardom. It debuted at number one on the New York Times bestseller list and remained there for weeks, selling millions of copies worldwide. The memoir earned widespread critical acclaim and solidified McCurdy as a serious literary voice.

McCurdy’s net worth is estimated at approximately $5 million as of 2026. Her wealth comes from her years on Nickelodeon, book sales, podcast revenue, and her work behind the camera. She has been open about her complicated relationship with the entertainment industry and has stated she has retired from acting to focus on writing and directing.