Top 10 Richest People in the World Living with Disabilities
Written by Sanjay Kumar
Success knows no boundaries, and these individuals have proven that disabilities are not a hindrance to achieving incredible wealth and accomplishments. In this article, we will explore the inspiring stories of the 10 richest people in the world with disabilities in 2023. From business magnates to renowned entertainers, these individuals have not only defied the odds but have also become beacons of inspiration for millions around the globe.
From Challenges to Riches: The Top 10 Richest People with Disabilities in the World in 2023
01 – Richard Branson ($5 billion)
- Born: 18 July 1950 (age 72 years), Blackheath, London, United Kingdom
- Space missions: Virgin Galactic Unity 22
- Net worth: 300 crores USD (2023) Forbes
- Spouse: Joan Templeman (m. 1989), Kristen Tomassi (m. 1972–1979)
- Children: Holly Branson, Sam Branson, Clare Sarah Branson
- Record labels founded: Virgin Records, Caroline Records, V2 Records, Virgin Classics, Front Line
With an estimated net worth of $5 billion, Richard Branson stands as the wealthiest disabled person in the world. Branson, known for founding the Virgin Group in 1972, has become a prominent figure in the business world. Despite his dyslexia and struggles with academics, he has proved that disabilities do not define one’s capabilities. Branson’s success story is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide. He has not only amassed significant wealth but has also dedicated himself to philanthropy and authored several books on entrepreneurship and business.
“Do not be embarrassed by your failures, learn from them and start again.”
02 – Steve Wynn ($3.3 billion)
- Born: 27 January 1942 (age 81 years), New Haven, Connecticut, United States
- Net worth: 320 crores USD (2023) Forbes
- Spouse: Andrea Hissom (m. 2011), Elaine Wynn (m. 1991–2010), Elaine Wynn (m. 1963–1986)
- Children: Kevyn Wynn, Gillian Wynn Early
- Siblings: Kenneth Wynn
- Nationality: American, Monacan
- Parents: Zelma Wynn, Michael Weinberg
Steve Wynn, a real estate developer and art collector from the United States, has achieved great success in the high-end hotel and casino industry. Despite being diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, an eye condition that eventually leads to blindness, Wynn’s net worth of $3.3 billion highlights his resilience and ability to overcome challenges. He has left an indelible mark on the hospitality and entertainment sectors, showcasing that disabilities need not hinder one’s pursuit of greatness.
Money doesn’t make people happy. People make people happy.
03 – Dan Aykroyd ($250 million)
- Born: 1 July 1952 (age 70 years), Ottawa, Canada
- Spouse: Donna Dixon (m. 1983–2022)
- Children: Vera Sola, Stella Irene August Aykroyd, Belle Kingston Aykroyd
- Siblings: Peter Aykroyd
- Parents: Samuel Peter Aykroyd, Lorraine Hélène Aykroyd
Dan Aykroyd, a Canadian comedian, actor, and screenwriter, has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Known for his roles in the “Ghostbusters” movie series and as an original cast member of “Saturday Night Live,” Aykroyd’s net worth of $250 million showcases his immense talent and entrepreneurial ventures. Despite being born with heterochromia and syndactylism, Aykroyd has risen above physical differences, becoming one of the richest individuals with disabilities in the world.
“My whole thing is to entertain, make people laugh and to forget about the real world for awhile.”
04 – Stevie Wonder ($200 million)
- Born: 13 May 1950 (age 73 years), Saginaw, Michigan, United States
- Children: Aisha Morris, Mandla Kadjay Carl Stevland Morris, MORE
- Spouse: Tomeeka Robyn Bracy (m. 2017), Kai Millard Morris (m. 2001–2015), Syreeta Wright (m. 1970–1972)
- Genres: R&B/Soul, Alternative/Indie, Dance/Electronic
Stevie Wonder, an American musician, singer, and songwriter, has triumphed over adversity to become one of the richest blind individuals globally. Wonder was born prematurely and developed retinopathy of prematurity, which led to his loss of sight. However, his talent and determination have propelled him to extraordinary heights in the music industry. With over 100 million records sold worldwide and numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and Academy Awards, Wonder’s net worth of $200 million is a testament to his remarkable achievements.
You can’t base your life on other people’s expectations.
05 – Jennifer Garner ($80 million)
- Born: 17 April 1972 (age 51 years), Houston, Texas, United States
- Children: Violet Affleck
- Spouse: Ben Affleck (m. 2005–2018), Scott Foley (m. 2000–2004)
- Parents: William John Garner, Patricia Ann Garner
- Siblings: Susannah Kay Garner Carpenter, Melissa Garner Wylie
- Alma mater: Denison University (BFA)
Jennifer Garner, an American actress known for her captivating performances, has overcome physical challenges to establish herself as a leading lady in Hollywood. Despite having brachymetatarsia, a foot malformation, Garner has charmed audiences with her talent and versatility. From her role as CIA officer Sydney Bristow in the TV series “Alias” to her impressive filmography, Garner’s net worth of $80 million showcases her ability to thrive in the entertainment industry despite physical differences.
I certainly never expected to be in front of a camera one day of my life.
06 – Michael J. Fox ($65 million)
- Born: 9 June 1961 (age 62 years), Edmonton, Canada
- Children: Sam Michael Fox, Aquinnah Kathleen Fox, Esmé Annabelle Fox, Schuyler Frances Fox
- Spouse: Tracy Pollan (m. 1988)
- Parents: William Fox, Phyllis Piper
- Siblings: Steven Fox, Kelli Fox, Karen Fox, Jacki Fox
- Education: Burnaby Central Secondary School
Michael J. Fox, a retired Canadian-American actor, comedian, and activist, has captured hearts worldwide with his talent and advocacy work. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1991, Fox has shown incredible resilience and determination. Although he stepped back from acting due to his health, his contributions to the industry, particularly his iconic role in the “Back to the Future” series, have left a lasting impact. With a net worth of $65 million, Fox’s story serves as an inspiration to those facing similar health challenges.
My view of life is colored by humor and looking at the best in any situation.
07 – Marlee Matlin ($11 million)
- Born: 24 August 1965 (age 57 years), Morton Grove, Illinois, United States
- Children: Sara Rose Grandalski, Brandon Joseph Grandalski, Tyler Daniel Grandalski, Isabelle Jane Grandalski
- Awards: Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role, MORE
- Spouse: Kevin Grandalski (m. 1993)
- Parents: Donald Matlin, Libby Matlin
- Nominations: Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role, MORE
Marlee Matlin, an American actress and author, has defied the odds by achieving remarkable success despite being deaf since a young age. Matlin’s net worth of $11 million reflects her talent and resilience. She has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards for her performances, including an Academy Award. Matlin’s achievements have shattered barriers and paved the way for greater inclusion in the entertainment industry.
The handicap of deafness is not in the ear; it is in the mind.
08 – Rick Hansen ($3 million)
- Born: 26 August 1957 (age 65 years), Port Alberni, Canada
- Children: Emma VandenBrink, Rebecca Hansen, Alana Hansen
- Spouse: Amanda Reid Hansen (m. 1987)
- Education: The University of British Columbia
- Siblings: Brad Hansen, Cindy Hansen, Christine Hansen
- Awards: Northern Star Award, Canadian Newsmaker of the Year
- Parents: Marvin Hansen, Joan Hansen
Rick Hansen, a Paralympic track and field competitor, advocate, and philanthropist, has dedicated his life to empowering individuals with disabilities. Paralyzed from the waist down due to a pickup truck accident, Hansen’s net worth of $3 million highlights his significant contributions and impact. He embarked on the Man in Motion World Tour, capturing the world’s attention and raising awareness about accessibility and inclusivity. Hansen’s unwavering commitment to making a difference has earned him a place among the richest people in the world with disabilities.
“Nurturing your own development isn’t selfish. It’s actually a great gift to other people.”
09 – Bethany Hamilton ($2 million)
- Born: 8 February 1990 (age 33 years), Lihue, Hawaii, United States
- Children: 3
- Spouse: Adam Dirks (m. 2013)
- Parents: Thomas R. Hamilton, Cherilyn Hamilton
- Siblings: Noah Hamilton, Timothy Hamilton
Bethany Hamilton, an American professional surfer and writer, has become an inspiration to many through her incredible resilience. Despite losing her left arm in a shark attack, Hamilton has continued to pursue her passion for surfing. Her determination and courage have earned her accolades such as the ESPY award for Best Comeback Athlete. With a net worth of $2 million, Hamilton serves as a shining example of overcoming physical challenges to achieve success in sports and inspire others along the way.
Courage, sacrifice, determination, commitment, toughness, heart, talent, guts. That’s what little girls are made of.
10 – Sudha Chandran ($2 million)
- Born: 27 September 1965 (age 57 years), Mumbai
- Spouse: Ravi Dang (m. 1994)
- Parents: K.D. Chandran, Thangam
- Awards: Golden Petal Award for Power Packed Performance, MORE
While not as widely known outside of India, Sudha Chandran is a renowned dancer and TV actress who has overcome significant obstacles to become one of the most highly acclaimed dancers in the world. After losing one of her legs to infection following a car accident, Chandran taught herself to dance using a prosthetic “Japir foot.” Her remarkable talent and dedication have earned her accolades and recognition in the field of Bharatanatyam dance. Chandran’s story, depicted in the Bollywood film “Mayuri,” exemplifies the triumph of the human spirit over adversity.
Never ignore someone with a disability, as we don’t realize how much they can inspire.
Conclusion
The remarkable stories of these 10 individuals showcase the power of resilience, determination, and talent. Despite their disabilities, they have amassed considerable wealth, made significant contributions to their respective fields, and inspired millions around the world. Their stories serve as a testament to the fact that disabilities do not define a person’s worth or potential for greatness. These individuals continue to break barriers, challenge societal norms, and pave the way for greater inclusivity and accessibility for people with disabilities.
Quick Glance
| Rank | Name | Net Worth | Disability |
| 1 | Richard Branson | $5 billion | Dyslexia |
| 2 | Steve Wynn | $3.3 billion | Retinitis Pigmentosa |
| 3 | Dan Aykroyd | $250 million | Heterochromia, Syndactylism |
| 4 | Stevie Wonder | $200 million | Blindness |
| 5 | Jennifer Garner | $80 million | Brachymetatarsia |
| 6 | Michael J. Fox | $65 million | Parkinson’s Disease |
| 7 | Marlee Matlin | $11 million | Deafness |
| 8 | Rick Hansen | $3 million | Paraplegia |
| 9 | Bethany Hamilton | $2 million | Amputated arm |
| 10 | Sudha Chandran | $2 million | Amputated leg |
FAQ
01. Who is the richest man in the world with a disability?
With an estimated net worth of $5 billion, Richard Branson stands as the wealthiest disabled person in the world.
02. Who is the richest woman in the world with a disability?
Marlee Matlin, an accomplished American actress and author, has triumphed over adversity by achieving extraordinary success despite her profound deafness since childhood. Her net worth, amounting to $11 million, stands as a testament to her immense talent and unwavering determination.
03. Who is the richest transgender person in the world?
Jennifer Pritzker – Net Worth: $1.79 Billion
04. Who are the top 10 richest people in the world with disabilities in 2023?
The top 10 Richest People in the World with Disabilities in 2023 are as follows: –
- Richard Branson ($5 billion)
- Steve Wynn ($3.3 billion)
- Dan Aykroyd ($250 million)
- Stevie Wonder ($200 million)
- Jennifer Garner ($80 million)
- Michael J. Fox ($65 million)
- Marlee Matlin ($11 million)
- Rick Hansen ($3 million)
- Bethany Hamilton ($2 million)
- Sudha Chandran ($2 million)
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