Woody Johnson Biography: Robert Wood Johnson IV, born on April 12, 1947, is an American businessman best known as the co-owner of the New York Jets and for serving as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom from 2017 to 2021. A great-grandson of Robert Wood Johnson I, he is an heir to the Johnson & Johnson pharmaceutical empire.
Woody Johnson Biography
Woody Johnson is a distinguished American businessman and diplomat, widely recognized as the owner of the New York Jets and a former U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom. A member of the renowned Johnson & Johnson family, he carries forward a legacy of innovation and success. Beyond his business accomplishments, Johnson is known for his political involvement and philanthropic work, solidifying his reputation as a multifaceted leader.
Woody Johnson Biography 2025 Details
| Born |
Robert Wood Johnson IV
April 12, 1947 |
|---|---|
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouses |
Nancy Sale (m. 1977; div. 2001)
Suzanne Ircha (m. 2009)
|
| Children | 5 |
| Parent(s) | Bobby Johnson Betty Wold |
| Relatives | Christopher Johnson (brother) |
| Education | University of Arizona (BA) |
| Category | Politician Biography |
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About Woody Johnson
Robert Wood Johnson IV is an American businessman who is co-owner of the New York Jets and was formerly the United States ambassador to the United Kingdom from 2017 to 2021. He is a great-grandson of Robert Wood Johnson I, and an heir to the Johnson & Johnson pharmaceutical fortune.
Woody Johnson Achievements
In 2000, Johnson made headlines by purchasing the New York Jets for $635 million—then a record for a New York-based professional sports franchise. He now co-owns the team with his brother, Christopher Johnson, and has also served on the NFL’s search committee for a new commissioner. A prominent donor to the Republican Party, Johnson was a vocal supporter of Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign. Following Trump’s election, he was appointed U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom.
Woody Johnson Wiki
- Born: 12 April 1947 (age 78 years), New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States
- Net worth: 330 crores USD (2025) Forbes
- Children: Casey Johnson, Robert Wood Johnson V, Jamie Johnson, Daisy Johnson, Jack Wood Johnson
- Spouse: Suzanne Ircha (m. 2009), Sale Johnson (m. 1977–2001)
- Education: The University of Arizona, Millbrook School
- Grandchild: Ava-Monroe Johnson
- Siblings: Christopher Wold Johnson, Keith Johnson, Billy Johnson, Elizabeth Johnson
Early Life and Education
Robert Wood Johnson IV was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, to Betty Johnson (née Wold; 1921–2020) and Robert Wood Johnson III. He is the great-grandson of Robert Wood Johnson I, the founder of the Johnson & Johnson pharmaceutical company, which he established alongside his brothers James Wood Johnson and Edward Mead Johnson. Growing up in northern New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson IV was one of five siblings, including Keith Johnson, Billy Johnson, Elizabeth “Libet” Johnson, and Christopher Wold Johnson. He attended the Millbrook School before graduating from the University of Arizona. Early in his career, he spent one summer working at Johnson & Johnson.
Key Details
- Full Name: Robert Wood Johnson IV
- Date of Birth: April 12, 1947
- Place of Birth: New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
- Nationality: American
- Education: University of Arizona
- Marital Status: Married
- Spouse: Suzanne Ircha
- Children: 5
- Net Worth: Estimated $6.3 billion
Early Life and Family Background
Born into the prominent Johnson family in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Woody Johnson grew up immersed in a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation as the great-grandson of Robert Wood Johnson I, co-founder of Johnson & Johnson. He attended the Millbrook School before earning his degree from the University of Arizona, where he cultivated a strong interest in business and finance. Woody was deeply influenced by his father, Robert Wood Johnson III, who emphasized leadership, philanthropy, and corporate responsibility—values that have guided Johnson throughout his career and charitable work.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
After college, Johnson embarked on a business career marked by sharp investment acumen, spanning industries from real estate to technology. His biggest recognition came through sports management when he purchased the New York Jets in 2000 for $635 million. Under his stewardship, the franchise has grown substantially in value, reaching an estimated $5.4 billion by 2024. His leadership has included major investments in players, facilities, and community outreach. In 2017, Johnson was appointed U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom by President Donald Trump. During his tenure, he worked to strengthen U.S.-UK relations, particularly in trade and security, navigating complex diplomatic challenges along the way.
Notable Achievements
Aside from owning the Jets, Johnson has built a diverse investment portfolio including real estate and technology ventures. He is also highly active in philanthropy, founding the Alliance for Lupus Research and contributing to education, disaster relief, and healthcare causes.
Current Focus and Recent Updates
In 2024, Johnson remains dedicated to enhancing the New York Jets’ brand and competitive edge, investing heavily in state-of-the-art training facilities and player development. He continues to play a significant role in philanthropy, championing initiatives aimed at autoimmune disease research. Johnson regularly appears at key sports and political events, sharing insights on business and international affairs, and maintaining a strong public profile as a thought leader.
Personal Life
Woody Johnson has been married twice—first to Nancy Sale Johnson (divorced) and currently to Suzanne Ircha, a former actress and investment banker, whom he wed in 2009. The couple has two children together. Overall, Johnson is a father to five children and often speaks about how family life influences his personal and professional decisions.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- The nickname “Woody” derives from his middle name, Wood.
- He once considered a career in politics before focusing on business and sports.
- Johnson is an avid collector of art and historical memorabilia, with a private collection valued at millions.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Through the Alliance for Lupus Research, Johnson has helped raise more than $100 million for medical research. His philanthropy also extends to funding educational initiatives and supporting disaster relief efforts worldwide. Woody Johnson’s legacy spans business, sports, and philanthropy, with a lasting impact on the NFL and his diplomatic contributions shaping both fields.
Future Plans and Cultural Impact
Johnson aims to broaden the New York Jets’ international presence through global partnerships and community sports programs. As a figure of leadership and perseverance, Woody Johnson continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and philanthropists alike.
Woody Johnson Net Worth 2025
Woody Johnson’s estimated net worth of $6.3 billion comes from a diverse range of investments, ownership of the New York Jets, and his inheritance from the Johnson & Johnson family fortune. His assets include:
- Multiple luxury residences in New York and London
- A notable collection of rare and vintage automobiles
- Significant holdings in technology and healthcare companies
Despite his substantial wealth, Johnson leads a relatively modest lifestyle, prioritizing impactful contributions to society over flashy displays of wealth.
FAQs
Who is Woody Johnson heir to?
He is the heir to the Johnson & Johnson pharmaceutical company.
How much did Woody Johnson pay for the Jets?
Among the heirs to the Johnson & Johnson pharmaceutical fortune, Johnson purchased the Jets for $635 million alongside his brother Christopher Johnson in 2000.
What is Woody Johnson’s record as owner?
Woody Johnson’s Resume as Owner: 24 seasons, 170-224 (0.431), 1 divisional title, 6 playoff appearances, 6 playoff wins, 8 head coaches, 6 GMs, and of course a 13 year and counting playoff drought.
How old is Woody Johnson’s Jets owner?
Johnson told the New York Post that he read the story published last month by The Athletic, which reported that the 77-year-old owner takes advice from his teenage son Brick.
Is Woody Johnson a billionaire?
While Woody’s net worth stands at $3.4 billion, the Johnson family as a whole is worth a staggering $16 billion. Ranking as the sixth-richest owners in the NFL, the Johnsons are more than just football enthusiasts—they’re financial powerhouses.