Andy Richter, born Paul Andrew Richter on October 28, 1966, is a multifaceted American actor, comedian, writer, and talk show announcer, best known as Conan O’Brien’s sidekick on Late Night, The Tonight Show, and Conan. As of 2025, Andy Richter’s age is 58, with an estimated net worth of $10 million, derived from his diverse career in television, film, and voice acting. He is married to Jennifer Herrera since 2023, following his divorce from Sarah Thyre in 2019. This article explores Andy Richter’s biography, salary, dating history, and recent updates, offering fresh insights and exclusive perspectives.
Early Life and Background: Shaping Andy Richter’s Journey
Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Andy Richter grew up in Yorkville, Illinois, as the second of four children. His parents, Glenda Swanson, a kitchen cabinet designer, and Laurence R. Richter, a Russian language professor, divorced when he was four, with his father later identifying as bisexual. This early family dynamic instilled resilience in Richter, who graduated from Yorkville High School in 1984, where he was crowned Prom King. His comedic roots trace back to his time at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Columbia College Chicago, where he studied film and honed his improv skills.
Richter’s early exposure to comedy came through Chicago’s vibrant improv scene. He trained at Improv Olympic and performed with The Comedy Underground and Annoyance Theatre. A pivotal moment was his role in The Real Live Brady Bunch, which caught the attention of Robert Smigel, leading to his breakthrough as a writer and sidekick on Late Night with Conan O’Brien in 1993.
Career Highlights: Andy Richter’s Rise to Fame
Andy Richter’s career spans over three decades, marked by versatility in comedy, acting, and writing. His role as Conan O’Brien’s sidekick from 1993 to 2000 on Late Night showcased his quick wit and charm, making him a household name. After leaving to pursue acting, he starred in Andy Richter Controls the Universe (2002–2003) and Andy Barker, P.I. (2007), both critically acclaimed but short-lived. His return to O’Brien’s side on The Tonight Show (2009–2010) and Conan (2010–2021) solidified his status as a late-night icon.
Richter’s voice acting includes Mort in the Madagascar franchise, a role that resonated with audiences worldwide. He also appeared in films like Elf (2003), Talladega Nights (2006), and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013). In 2024, he competed as Dust Bunny on The Masked Singer season 12, showcasing his playful versatility. His podcast, The Three Questions with Andy Richter, launched in 2019, offers intimate celebrity interviews, reflecting his genuine curiosity and warmth.
Andy Richter’s Salary and Net Worth in 2025
Andy Richter’s net worth is estimated at $10 million in 2025, a figure driven by his extensive work in television, film, and voice acting. While exact salary details are private, industry estimates suggest late-night sidekicks earn between $500,000 and $1 million annually, with Richter likely at the higher end during his Conan tenure. His voice acting roles, such as in Madagascar, and guest appearances on shows like Arrested Development and Brooklyn Nine-Nine further bolster his income. Unlike many celebrities, Richter’s financial strategy emphasizes steady work over high-risk ventures, a pragmatic approach for sustained wealth.
Personal Life: Andy Richter’s Married Life and Dating History
Andy Richter’s married life has been a significant part of his public persona. He was married to Sarah Thyre, an actress and writer, from 1994 to 2019. The couple met during The Real Live Brady Bunch in 1991 and have two children: William Oscar Richter (born 2000) and Mercy Josephine Richter (born 2005). Their 2019 divorce was amicable, with both emphasizing co-parenting. Richter’s support for Planned Parenthood stems from a personal experience in 1992, when he and Thyre chose abortion during a challenging period, a decision he discussed at a 2016 fundraiser.
In November 2022, Richter announced his engagement to Jennifer Herrera, whom he married on June 10, 2023, in a ceremony officiated by Conan O’Brien. His dating history post-divorce was low-key until Herrera, reflecting his preference for privacy. In a 2024 interview on his podcast, Richter shared, “Finding love again after 50 feels like a second chance at joy,” highlighting his optimistic outlook.
Recent Updates: Andy Richter in 2025
In 2025, Andy Richter remains active in entertainment. His role in the indie thriller After, alongside Kevin Pollak and Tracy Spiridakos, marks a departure into dramatic roles. His podcast continues to gain traction, with guests like Haley Joel Osment sharing personal stories, enhancing Richter’s reputation as a thoughtful interviewer. His appearance on The Masked Singer showcased his willingness to embrace new challenges, earning praise for his vocal performance.
A unique insight from my perspective: Richter’s ability to balance humor with vulnerability sets him apart. Unlike many comedians who lean into cynicism, his warmth fosters genuine connections, evident in his podcast and public appearances. This authenticity resonates with fans, making him a beloved figure beyond late-night TV.
Andy Richter Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Paul Andrew Richter |
| Date of Birth | October 28, 1966 |
| Age (2025) | 58 years |
| Birthplace | Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA |
| Height | 6’1” (1.85 m) |
| Weight | 239 lbs (108 kg) |
| Parents | Glenda Swanson (mother), Laurence R. Richter (father) |
| Siblings | Second of four children; brother Victor Swanson |
| Education | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Columbia College Chicago (Film) |
| First Major Role | Writer and sidekick, Late Night with Conan O’Brien (1993) |
| Notable TV Shows | Conan, Andy Richter Controls the Universe, Andy Barker, P.I. |
| Notable Films | Madagascar (voice of Mort), Elf, Talladega Nights |
| Net Worth (2025) | $10 million |
| Salary (Estimated) | $500,000–$1 million annually (during Conan tenure) |
| First Marriage | Sarah Thyre (1994–2019) |
| Second Marriage | Jennifer Herrera (2023–present) |
| Children | William Oscar Richter (born 2000), Mercy Josephine Richter (born 2005) |
| Recent Projects | The Masked Singer (2024), After (2025), The Three Questions podcast |
| Awards | Writer’s Guild of America Awards (1997, 2000) |
| Social Media | Twitter, Facebook |
Why Andy Richter Stands Out
Richter’s career reflects a blend of talent and tenacity. His journey from Chicago’s improv scene to Hollywood underscores the value of persistence. A case study of his Conan tenure reveals a rare chemistry with O’Brien, driven by mutual respect and spontaneity, which kept audiences engaged for decades. Unlike many sidekicks who fade into obscurity, Richter carved a niche through diverse roles, from voice acting to hosting.
His advocacy for Planned Parenthood and openness about personal challenges, like his son coming out (shared in a 2024 People interview), highlight his progressive values and relatability. Richter’s story is a testament to navigating personal and professional hurdles with grace, making him a role model for aspiring entertainers.
Conclusion: Andy Richter’s Lasting Legacy
Andy Richter’s age, net worth, married life, salary, and dating history paint a picture of a versatile entertainer who thrives on authenticity. From his early days in Chicago to his 2025 projects, Richter’s career is a masterclass in adaptability. For more on his journey, visit his Wikipedia page or follow him on Twitter. His legacy as a comedian, actor, and human being continues to inspire, proving that humor and heart can coexist in Hollywood.
