How Much is Zak Starkey Worth? Zak Starkey in Net Worth 2026: Career Earnings & Assets
Updated: May 05, 2026
- Subject:
How Much is Zak Starkey Worth? Zak Starkey Net Worth in 2026 - Profile Status:
Verified Biography
TABLE OF CONTENTS
As one of the most talked-about figures, Zak Starkey has built a significant fortune. In this article, we dive deep into the assets and career highlights.
What is Zak Starkey's net worth?
By age twelve, Starkey was already performing in pubs with his garage band, The Next. After Moon's death,Kenney Jones(who replaced Moon in The Who) gifted the teenage Starkey a white drum kit that had belonged to Moon and had been kept in storage by the band—a symbolic passing of the torch that would prove prophetic.
A significant breakthrough came in the early 1990s when he toured with his father as part of Ringo Starr and His All-Starr Band in 1992 and 1995, having previously guested on their 1989 tour. This higher-profile work helped establish Starkey more firmly in the music industry.
Despite his father's fame as a member of the most influential band in history, Zak Starkey didn't have his path to music laid out for him. Born on September 13, 1965, at Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital in Hammersmith, London, to Ringo Starr (Richard Starkey) and his first wife Maureen Starkey (née Cox), Zak grew up at Sunny Heights in Surrey and later at Tittenhurst Park in Berkshire. Interestingly, Ringo actually discouraged his son from pursuing a career in music, hoping he might become a doctor or lawyer instead.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Starkey's professional career began in the 1980s when he appeared with a reformedSpencer DavisGroup. In 1985, he played onJohn Entwistle'ssolo album "The Rock" (though it wasn't released until 1996) and participated in the Artists United Against Apartheid project "Sun City" alongside his father.
The pivotal moment in Starkey's musical journey came when he was eight years old and received his first drum kit—not from his father, but from Keith Moon, The Who's legendary drummer and Zak's godfather. While Moon (whom young Zak called "Uncle Keith") was a significant influence, he didn't provide formal lessons. In fact, Starkey received only one drum lesson from his father before becoming primarily self-taught.
His career continued with brief stints in various bands, including replacing Chris Sharrock in The Icicle Works in 1988. Though these early years weren't marked by immediate success, Starkey persevered, honing his skills and building a reputation as a reliable and talented drummer outside his father's shadow.
Zak Starkey is an English rock drummer who has a net worth of $20 million. Zak Starkey is a renowned English rock drummer who has carved out an impressive legacy despite being born into musical royalty as the son of Beatles drummerRingo Starr. Starkey has established himself through talent and perseverance rather than relying on his famous lineage. Best known for his nearly three-decade tenure with The Who (1996-2025), Starkey stepped into the monumental role once held by his godfather,Keith Moon. His powerful yet nuanced drumming style earned him praise fromPete TownshendandRoger Daltrey, who considered him the best drummer for the band since Moon's passing. Beyond The Who, Starkey served as Oasis's drummer from 2004 to 2009, contributing to their album "Don't Believe the Truth" and accompanying tours. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with numerous high-profile artists includingJohnny Marr, The Icicle Works, The Lightning Seeds, and occasionally performed with his father's All-Starr Band. Largely self-taught and fiercely independent, Starkey's dedication to his craft and ability to adapt to various musical styles have cemented his reputation as one of rock's most respected drummers in his own right.
Professional Career Development
Ultimately, Zak Starkey's financial journey is a testament to their success.
Disclaimer: All net worth figures are estimates based on public data.