Jesse Ventura (born James George Janos on 15 July 1951 in Minneapolis, Minnesota) is an American figure known across arenas—professional wrestling, politics, media, and acting. He gained fame as a flamboyant WWF performer known as Jesse “The Body” Ventura, then made an unexpected political impact as the 38th Governor of Minnesota (1999–2003), and has since worked as an author, commentator, and media personality
esse Ventura’s Age & Background (Age & Ethnicity)
Born on 15 July 1951, Ventura is 74 years old in 2025. Of Slovak and German ancestry, he was raised Lutheran and served in the U.S. Navy’s Underwater Demolition Team (UDT) during the Vietnam War era, before transitioning to bodybuilding and wrestling.
Family & Personal Life (Family)
In 1975, Ventura married Theresa “Terry” Larson Masters, and they have two children: Tyrel, a film & television director, and Jade, a granddaughter to both parents. The family divides time between White Bear Lake, Minnesota, and a solar‑powered retreat near Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Career: Wrestling, Politics & Media (Biography & Career)
Wrestling & Early Ventures
Ventura’s athletics journey began post‑Navy, rising quickly in regional promotions before joining the World Wrestling Federation in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Wrestling under the persona “Jesse The Body”, he became known for his flamboyant heel character, tag team success, and later, commentary roles. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2004.
Political Rise: Brooklyn Park Mayor & Governor
Ventura entered politics in 1991, becoming Mayor of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, before running a grassroots campaign for governor in 1998 as a Reform Party candidate. His surprising victory in 1999 made him the first third-party candidate to win major statewide office in modern history. His administration restructured property taxation, enacted sales tax rebates, and expanded mass transit in the Twin Cities.
Post‑Political Media & Authorship
After leaving office in 2003, Ventura authored political books such as I Ain’t Got Time to Bleed and Marijuana Manifesto, hosted shows including Conspiracy Theory and The World According to Jesse, and remained active in media commentary and political discourse into 2025.
Public Presence & Social Reach (Facts)
Ventura’s current public presence is maintained through commentary, podcasts, and occasional appearances rather than traditional social media. On X (Twitter), his official account @GovJVentura holds around 176K followers, though posting remains infrequent and focused on political commentary and promotions. His Instagram presence is minimal, with under 30 K followers, and used primarily for event announcements.
Body Statistics & Physical Traits (Facts)
Ventura stands tall at approximately 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) and during his wrestling peak weighed around 245 lbs (111 kg). Known for his charismatic presence and theatrical persona, he transitioned to podcast and television hosting roles that emphasize intellect and skepticism rather than physical performance.
Net Worth & Financial Overview (Net Worth)
Estimated Net Worth in 2025
Reputable sources such as Celebrity Net Worth and GreeneCodream estimate $6–7 million USD as Ventura’s net worth, reflecting income from wrestling, political office, book royalties, media projects, and consulting roles.
Income Sources Breakdown
- Earnings from WWF commentary, pensions, and Hall of Fame status
- Salary as Governor of Minnesota and subsequent political activity
- Book sales and royalties
- Hosting and appearances on shows like Conspiracy Theory and speaking engagements
- Intellectual property from past lawsuits and ongoing media involvement
Interesting Facts & Milestones (Facts)
- Ventura famously sued WWE in the 1990s for unpaid royalties and won over $800,000, a landmark case in performer rights.
- He supported legalization of cannabis, equal rights, and was an early vocal critic of both major U.S. political parties through multiple presidential cycles.
- Ventura’s persona once included membership in the Mongols Motorcycle Club, a chapter acknowledged in media interviews—revealing a complex personal journey from biker culture to public office.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James George Janos (“Jesse Ventura”) |
| Date of Birth | 15 July 1951 |
| Age (2025) | 74 years old |
| Height & Weight | ~6′2″ (188 cm), ~245 lbs (111 kg) |
| Education & Early Service | U.S. Navy UDT, North Hennepin CC |
| Wrestling Persona | Jesse “The Body” Ventura, WWF performer & commentator |
| Political Roles | Mayor of Brooklyn Park (1991–95), Governor of Minnesota (1999–03) |
| Net Worth (2025) | ~$6–7 million USD |
| Media Roles | Author, host, commentator, podcaster |
| Family | Married to Terry since 1975; children: Tyrel and Jade |
| Social Media | X (Twitter) ~176K followers (@GovJVentura), minimal Instagram |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Jesse Ventura?
A former professional wrestler turned governor, media commentator, and author known for his unconventional political success and outspoken style.
How old is he?
Born on 15 July 1951, Jesse Ventura is 74 years old in 2025.
What is his net worth?
Estimates place his net worth around $6 million to $7 million USD, based on diversified income from wrestling, book sales, media appearances, and property or royalties.
What is he known for politically?
He served as mayor and then as governor of Minnesota as a third-party candidate; known for tax reforms, sales tax rebates, and anti-establishment appeal.
Does he use social media?
He maintains a modest presence, especially on X/Twitter (@GovJVentura) with around 176K followers, but he shares public commentary rather than frequent personal updates.
Conclusion
Jesse Ventura’s life reflects the journey of a public maverick—from Navy commando to wrestling superstar, to political outsider, author, and media provocateur. His net worth of $6–7 million in 2025 mirrors a career built on visibility, activism, and principled independence. Now aged 74, he continues to spark discussion and influence outside mainstream political structures, embodying his mantra of independent thinking.
Read also: Huda Kattan Net Worth: Age, Height, Family, Biography & Facts