Tisha Campbell is a name that resonates with television fans across the 1990s and 2000s. Known for her vibrant acting skills and musical talent, she has built a career full of memorable performances. Despite her achievements, her net worth today is estimated at $700 thousand, a figure shaped not only by her acting success but also by serious financial setbacks.
Early Life and Family Background
Born Tisha Michelle Campbell on October 13, 1968, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, she grew up in Newark, New Jersey, alongside five siblings. Music and performance were deeply rooted in her family. Her mother was a gospel singer and vocal coach, while her father was both a singer and a chess master. Their influence guided Tisha toward music and acting from a young age. Today, at age 56, she continues to remain active in the entertainment world.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
Tisha started performing at just six years old with an appearance on the children’s show The Big Blue Marble in 1974. By her teens, she was cast in Little Shop of Horrors (1986), and later, School Daze (1988), directed by Spike Lee. These roles laid the foundation for her breakthrough in comedy and musical films. She also became a recognizable face in the House Party series, which added to her growing popularity.
Television Stardom with Martin and My Wife and Kids
In 1992, Campbell landed her most iconic role as Gina Waters-Payne on the sitcom Martin, co-starring with Martin Lawrence. She appeared in 122 of the show’s 132 episodes, although her departure in season five came after filing a sexual harassment lawsuit against Lawrence and the producers. She later returned for the series finale under strict conditions that kept her from sharing scenes with Lawrence.
Following Martin, she starred in the ABC sitcom My Wife and Kids as Janet “Jay” Kyle from 2001 to 2005, a role that further cemented her as a household name. Other notable television appearances included recurring roles in Everybody Hates Chris, Empire, and Dr. Ken.
Music Career
Beyond acting, Tisha pursued her passion for music. In 1992, she released her debut album Tisha. She also contributed to soundtracks and appeared in music videos throughout the 1990s and 2000s. In recent years, she has released singles again, reminding fans of her vocal talent.
Marriage, Divorce, and Family
Tisha married actor Duane Martin in 1996, and together they had two children. Their marriage lasted over two decades but was troubled by financial issues. In 2018, Campbell filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences and financial mismanagement. Their divorce was finalized in 2020 with neither party receiving spousal or child support. As part of the settlement, Tisha kept a leased home and a BMW, while Duane retained his leased Bentley and motorcycles.
Bankruptcy and Financial Struggles
Tisha Campbell’s net worth story cannot be told without mentioning the financial crisis she and Duane Martin faced. In 2016, the couple filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, reporting $15.1 million in debt against just $313,000 in assets. Their liabilities included $3 million owed to Broadway Federal Bank and $9.5 million owed to the City of Los Angeles. Court filings revealed they owned luxury vehicles like a 2016 Range Rover and a Jeep Wrangler, but their monthly expenses of $17,000 far exceeded their combined income of $7,655.
During divorce proceedings, Campbell claimed she had just $7 to her name at one point and accused Duane of hiding assets, including an alleged $750,000 worth of designer shirts. This financial turmoil has left her with a modest net worth today, despite decades of work in Hollywood.
Real Estate Deals
The couple also made moves in the real estate market. In 2004, they bought a Lake Arrowhead property for $880,000 and sold it in 2009 for $1.597 million. They also owned a Chatsworth home purchased in 2005 for $900,000, which later became entangled in bankruptcy proceedings. Notably, Duane received financial help from Will Smith, including a $1.5 million loan, which tied the property to their debt settlement.
Legacy and Current Life
Despite financial troubles, Tisha Campbell remains admired for her resilience and career longevity. From her breakout in School Daze to her beloved TV roles, she has showcased humor, charm, and dramatic depth. Her music, acting, and public presence continue to inspire younger performers who see her as an example of perseverance in the face of personal challenges.
