Rafe Lee Judkins is an American television writer, reality TV personality, and showrunner. He is best known as a contestant on the 11th season of the CBS reality show Survivor, as well as for his work as a writer and producer on shows like Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and The Wheel of Time.
Judkins was born on March 8, 1983 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He attended Yale University where he graduated with bachelor’s degrees in economics and French studies. After graduating, Judkins moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.
Rafe Judkins Net Worth
As of 2024, Rafe Judkins’ net worth is estimated to be around $3 million. The bulk of his wealth has come from his work writing and producing numerous popular TV shows over the past decade.
Some of Judkins’ most lucrative writing and producing credits include:
- Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (Writer, Producer)
- Chuck (Writer, Producer)
- Hemlock Grove (Co-Executive Producer)
- The Wheel of Time (Developer, Showrunner, Executive Producer)
In addition to his TV work, Judkins likely earned a decent amount from his appearance on Survivor back in 2005 when he placed 5th and spent 33 days in the game. Between the initial appearance fee all contestants receive and his extended stay, he probably took home low six figures from the show.
Going forward, Judkins’ net worth should continue rising thanks to his successful showrunning career. The Wheel of Time has been a hit for Amazon Prime Video, which will likely lead to more high-paying showrunner jobs for Judkins down the road.
Rafe Judkins Age & Early Life
Rafe Judkins was born on March 8, 1983 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, which makes his current age 41.
He was raised in the Pittsburgh suburb of Upper St. Clair by his parents, Lee and Linda Judkins. Rafe has two brothers – an identical twin named Will and an older brother named Jacob.
As a child, Rafe attended Upper St. Clair High School. He is said to have been very active and outgoing during his school years. He played multiple sports growing up, including football, basketball, baseball and tennis.
After graduating high school in 2001, Rafe headed to Yale University. He graduated Yale in 2005 at age 22 with a double major in economics and French studies.
In addition to his studies, Rafe was very socially active at Yale. He performed with the Yale Whiffenpoofs a cappella group and the Yale Dramatic Association.
After completing his Ivy League education, Rafe moved to Los Angeles to start his professional career working in Hollywood.
Rafe Judkins Height & Physical Stats
In terms of his physical stats:
- Height: 6′ 1″ (185 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 185 lbs (84 kg)
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Standing at 6’1″ with a lean, athletic build, Rafe Judkins cuts an imposing physical figure. His height likely served him well during his athletic endeavors in high school and college.
Judkins stays in good shape even today in his early 40s. During the 2021 filming of Wheel of Time season 1 in Prague, Rafe was photographed multiple times wearing t-shirts that showed off his toned arm and shoulder muscles.
When it comes to facial features, Rafe has thick dark eyebrows and a rectangular face shape. He keeps his dark hair cropped short with some light stubble on his face.
Rafe Judkins Career & Awards
After graduating Yale in 2005, Rafe Judkins moved to Los Angeles to pursue his dream of building a career in the entertainment industry in Hollywood.
Survivor Contestant
One of Judkins’ first major career moves was in 2005 when he successfully secured a spot as a contestant on Survivor: Guatemala, the 11th season of the hit CBS reality show. Rafe performed very well in the game, lasting 33 days and ultimately finishing 5th.
His impressive run and likable personality on the show helped him land writing jobs soon after his Survivor fame.
Television Writer & Producer
After his Survivor appearance, Judkins landed a writing job on the NBC series Chuck in 2007. He started on the show as a staff writer and eventually worked his way up to producer by the end of the series’ run.
Following Chuck, Judkins served as a producer and writer for series like Missing, Hemlock Grove, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and more over the next decade.
Some writing and producing highlights in Rafe’s career include:
- Nominated for a Writers Guild of America Award for The Wheel of Time
- Nominated for GLAAD Media Award for Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D
- Produced over 45 episodes combined of network TV shows
The Wheel of Time Showrunner
Without a doubt, serving as creator, showrunner and executive producer of The Wheel of Time on Amazon Prime Video is Rafe Judkins’ biggest career achievement yet.
Developing the massive fantasy world of Robert Jordan’s novels into a compelling TV show was an enormous challenge that Rafe successfully brought to life starting in 2018.
The first season of The Wheel of Time released in November 2021 to strong reviews from critics and fans alike. The show was quickly renewed for a second season, with Rafe continuing to serve as showrunner and lead decision maker.
With the show’s early success, Rafe Judkins has cemented himself as one of the most exciting creative forces in Hollywood today. And at just 41 years old, he likely has many more impressive career accomplishments ahead of him still.
Rafe Judkins Personal Life
Though most of his waking hours are consumed by writing and producing TV shows, Rafe Judkins does find some time for a personal life as well.
Family & Relationships
Rafe tends to keep his romantic relationships very private. But some reports indicate he has had past relationships with both men and women.
In terms of family, as mentioned earlier Rafe has identical twin brother named Will and an older brother named Jacob. His parents Lee and Linda still reside in Pennsylvania.
Rafe used to spend holidays and family events back in his hometown of Pittsburgh. But in recent years he has reportedly spent less time back home due to his busy schedule working on Television projects for Hollywood.
Other Interests & Hobbies
During his rare spare time these days, Rafe enjoys exercising, hiking, reading, creative writing, and traveling when possible.
Even though he now lives in Los Angeles, Rafe remains an avid fan of Pittsburgh sports teams like the Steelers, Penguins and Pirates.
Rafe is also passionate about several charitable causes. He has donated to and worked with organizations supporting LGBTQ rights, immigration reform, the environment and more over the years.
FAQs
Where was Rafe Judkins born?
Rafe Judkins was born on March 8, 1983 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He grew up in the Pittsburgh suburb of Upper St. Clair.
What college did Rafe Judkins attend?
Judkins attended Yale University. He graduated Yale in 2005 with a double major in economics and French studies.
How much money does Rafe Judkins make?
As of 2024, Judkins’ net worth is estimated at around $3 million. Most of his wealth comes from working as a writer and producer on hit TV shows.
Is Rafe Judkins married?
No, Judkins is not believed to have ever been married. He keeps his dating life and relationships very private.
What was Rafe’s big break in Hollywood?
His appearance on the 2005 season of the CBS reality show Survivor helped Rafe land his first writing job on NBC’s Chuck. This big break came shortly after he moved to Los Angeles.
What is Rafe’s most successful TV project?
Without question, his work as showrunner on Amazon Prime Video’s fantasy series The Wheel of Time is Rafe’s biggest accomplishment so far. The show has earned strong reviews and a quick season 2 renewal.
What can we expect next from Rafe Judkins?
Judkins will continue serving as showrunner for future seasons of The Wheel of Time. He may also develop new TV projects down the road, given his rising status as an in-demand Hollywood creative.