Craig Jackson, Chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson, has built a legendary career in the world of classic car auctions.
With an estimated net worth of $300 million as of 2025, Jackson has transformed Barrett-Jackson into a global empire, pioneering the collector car auction industry.
His success is not just about financial wealth—it’s a story of family legacy, passion for automobiles, and strategic business leadership.
Early Life and Family Background
Craig Jackson was born in 1959 in Arizona to Russell and Nellie Jackson. His father, Russell, was originally from Michigan and had a background in business and mechanics.
After serving as a Chief Mechanic in the Air Force during World War II, Russell transitioned into selling and restoring classic cars. His mother, Nellie, played a crucial role in managing the business operations.
Craig was raised alongside his older brother, Brian, in a family that lived and breathed classic cars.
In 1960, the Jacksons moved from Michigan to Scottsdale, Arizona, where they founded Classic Carriage House, a business dedicated to restoring and selling vintage cars. This early exposure to the automotive world would shape Craig’s future.
The Birth of Barrett-Jackson
In 1963, Russell Jackson met Tom Barrett, another car enthusiast, through a classified ad. Barrett was selling a 1933 Cadillac V16 Town Car, once owned by Hollywood icon Joan Crawford.
Though the deal never materialized, their shared love for classic cars sparked a lifelong friendship and business partnership.
In 1967, Jackson and Barrett launched “Fiesta de los Autos Elegantes”, a charity auction for classic car enthusiasts. This event evolved into the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction, officially founded in 1972.
Craig Jackson (Credit: YouTube)
The first major auctioned car was Adolf Hitler’s armored Mercedes-Benz 770K, which sold for over $150,000—an unprecedented sum at the time.
Taking Over the Business
Growing up in the classic car auction scene, Craig Jackson and his brother Brian naturally became involved in the family business.
However, tragedy struck when their father, Russell, passed away in 1993 after a battle with colon cancer. Shortly after, Tom Barrett retired, leaving the company in the hands of the Jackson brothers.
Unfortunately, Brian Jackson also succumbed to colon cancer in 1995 at the age of 49, leaving Craig as the sole leader of Barrett-Jackson. In 1997, Craig officially took over as Chairman and CEO, ushering in a new era for the company.
The Rise of a Global Auction Empire
Under Craig Jackson’s leadership, Barrett-Jackson transformed into one of the most prestigious collector car auctions in the world. Key factors behind the company’s massive success include:
- The “No Reserve” Auction Model: Craig implemented a no-reserve format, meaning every car sells to the highest bidder, increasing competition and excitement.
- Annual Sales Boom: The flagship Scottsdale auction attracts over 200,000 attendees per year, generating between $100 to $150 million in annual sales.
- Expansion into Television: Barrett-Jackson’s auctions are now broadcast in over 200 countries, attracting millions of viewers.
A major milestone in the company’s history occurred in August 2022, when Endeavor, the parent company of UFC and WWE, acquired a 51% stake in Barrett-Jackson for $261 million. This deal valued the company at $520 million, further solidifying its industry dominance.
Car Collection
Craig Jackson is not just an auction house CEO—he is a true car enthusiast with one of the most impressive private car collections in the world.
His personal garage, which took over two years and several million dollars to construct, is museum-like in design.
His collection includes:
- 1970 Hemi Cuda Convertible (one of only 14 ever made)
- 1988 Porsche Factory Slope Nose (his childhood dream car)
- 1969 Camaro ZL1 Rally Sport (one of just two produced)
- 1961 Chevy Impala Custom Coupe
- 1965 Shelby Mustang GT 350
- 1997 Dodge Viper
- Ferrari Daytona
- 1932 Ford Custom Roadster
- Custom Bugatti
Jackson’s love for cars is deeply personal. His first car, a Corvette, was a gift from his father, while the first car he purchased was a 1966 Pontiac LeMans, which he still owns today.
Luxury Arizona Mansion
In addition to his cars, Craig Jackson owns a stunning Paradise Valley, Arizona mansion, which he bought for $6 million in 2006. The 12,255-square-foot estate sits on over six acres and features:
- A custom-built garage for his car collection
- A circular rotunda showroom designed to resemble a 1967 Shelby Cobra wheel
- Leather walls, terrazzo-coated floors, and a rotating turntable for his vehicles
Due to the rising value of luxury properties in Arizona, his mansion is now estimated to be worth between $10 to $15 million. However, its one-of-a-kind design makes it difficult to find comparable sales.
Legacy and Influence
At 66 years old (as of 2025), Craig Jackson has built more than just a successful business—he has cemented his legacy in the automotive world. His contributions include:
- Transforming Barrett-Jackson into a global auction powerhouse
- Expanding the business into television and international markets
- Supporting charitable causes, especially cancer research, due to his family’s history with the disease
Despite his success, Jackson remains deeply connected to the classic car community. His leadership and vision continue to shape the industry, ensuring Barrett-Jackson remains the premier name in collector car auctions.
Martha Stewart is a household name in the world of homemaking and lifestyle, with a net worth estimated at $400 million. Although her fortune isn’t on the scale of Oprah Winfrey’s or even some other high-profile celebrities, it places her among the top-tier lifestyle moguls—close to Ellen DeGeneres and well ahead of figures like Rachael Ray.
Early Beginnings and Rise to Fame
Childhood Hustle
Martha’s entrepreneurial spirit emerged early. By the age of 10, she was babysitting for the children of New York Yankees stars such as Mickey Mantle, Gil McDougald, and Yogi Berra. Her early start in service roles laid the groundwork for her later ventures.
Modeling and Education
At 15, she appeared in a Lifebuoy ad and went on to model for top brands including Chanel. Earnings from modeling helped her pay tuition at Barnard College of Columbia University, where she pursued degrees in history and architectural history.
First Ventures
After marrying Andrew Stewart, Martha ventured into a career as a stockbroker in 1967—following in her father-in-law’s footsteps—and later tried her hand at catering.
Although her initial partnership in catering didn’t last, she eventually took full control of the business, showcasing her early knack for entrepreneurship.
Martha Stewart (Credit: YouTube)
The Cookbook Author and Publishing Breakthrough
Cookbook Debut
Martha’s first cookbook, Entertaining (1982), marked the beginning of a prolific publishing career. Collaborating with a ghostwriter and Crown Publishing’s Clarkson Potter Books, her debut title set the stage for a series of bestsellers.
Building a Publishing Empire
Over the years, Martha released more than 90 books—including titles like Martha Stewart’s Quick Cook, Martha Stewart’s Hors D’oeuvres, and Martha Stewart’s Christmas.
Each publication reinforced her reputation as the ultimate domestic guru, turning her expertise in cooking, decorating, and entertaining into a thriving business.
Expansion into Media and Branding
Magazine and TV Ventures
In 1990, Martha launched her flagship magazine, Martha Stewart Living, which quickly became a staple in households across the country.
The magazine’s success led to her own television show in 1993, which expanded over the years into daily programming. This media presence allowed her to reach a vast audience, further solidifying her brand.
The Omnimedia Empire
Under the banner of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, she not only expanded her reach through publishing and TV but also established numerous product lines.
Her brand became synonymous with quality homemaking advice, stylish décor, and gourmet cooking.
Legal Challenges and the Insider Trading Scandal
The Scandal Unfolds
In 2001, Martha was implicated in an insider trading case related to ImClone Systems stock. Accused of selling shares just before a dramatic price drop, she was indicted by the SEC in 2003.
Conviction and Consequences
In 2004, Martha was convicted on charges including conspiracy and making false statements.
She served five months in prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and paid fines totaling over $137,000. Despite this setback, she maintained her innocence and refused to let the incident define her legacy.
Diversification Through Product Lines and Strategic Partnerships
Merchandising Success
Martha’s brand expanded into various product lines—ranging from housewares and cooking tools to exclusive collaborations with major retailers like Kmart, Home Depot, Macy’s, and J.C. Penney.
Her approach capitalized on her recognizable style and expertise, ensuring high profit margins in merchandising.
Other Ventures
These initiatives underscore her ability to innovate and adapt in a rapidly changing marketplace.
Martha Stewart (Credit: Pinterest)
The Comeback and Television Renaissance
Reinventing Her Image
After her legal troubles, Martha made a strong comeback on television. The Martha Stewart Show not only returned to the screens but also earned several Daytime Emmy nominations.
She also ventured into reality TV with a version of The Apprentice, focusing on her own brand of business acumen.
High-Profile Collaborations
In recent years, Martha has found renewed popularity through collaborations with unexpected partners, including the rap icon Snoop Dogg.
Their joint venture, Martha & Snoop’s Potluck Dinner Party, received rave reviews and helped introduce her brand to new audiences, proving that reinvention is key to longevity in the entertainment world.
Real Estate and Lifestyle Assets
Iconic Properties
Real estate has played a significant role in Martha’s story. Her most famous property, the Turkey Hill farmhouse estate in Connecticut—purchased for less than $50,000 in 1971—was transformed into a stunning, expansive estate and later sold for $6.7 million.
Diverse Holdings
Beyond Turkey Hill, Martha owns properties in Seal Harbor, Maine (Skylands estate), a Manhattan penthouse on the Hudson River, a sprawling estate in Katonah, New York, and several other residences in upscale New York neighborhoods.
These assets not only reflect her personal taste but also contribute significantly to her overall net worth.
Legacy and Continued Influence
Martha Stewart’s journey is a testament to her resilience and versatility. From humble beginnings and early career hustles to building a multifaceted media and merchandising empire, she has overcome personal and legal challenges to become one of the most influential lifestyle moguls in America.
Her ability to continually reinvent herself—while staying true to her roots in homemaking and decor—ensures that her legacy will endure for generations.
