Robert Norman Ross, also known as Bob Ross, was a beloved American painter and art instructor.
He is best known for creating and hosting the popular instructional television show The Joy of Painting, which aired from 1983 to 1994.
The show airs on PBS in the United States, CBC in Canada, and similar channels in Latin America, Europe, and other parts of the world.
With his gentle voice and calm demeanor, Ross taught viewers how to create beautiful landscapes and encouraged them to accept their mistakes and creativity.
Since then, he has become a cultural icon and his legacy continues to inspire and bring joy to people around the world.
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- Full name: Robert Norman Ross
- Stage name: Bob Ross
- Date of birth: October 29, 1942
- Died: July 4, 1995 (age 52), Orlando, Florida, USA
- Birthplace: Daytona Beach, Florida
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: American painter and art lecturer
- Height: 1.88 m
- Parents: Ollie Ross and Jack Ross.
- Siblings: unknown
- Spouses: Lynda Brown (m. 1995–1995), Jane Ross (m. 1977–1992), Vivian Ridge (m. 1965–1977)
- Children: 1, Steve Ross
- Relationship: married
- Net worth: 10 million USD
Early life and education
Bob Ross is a famous American painter, art instructor and television host. He was born on October 29, 1942 in Daytona Beach, Florida and was raised by his parents, Ollie Ross and Jack Ross.
Ross grew up with his siblings, although their names were not known to the media. He is white and Christian. Ross attended Elizabeth Forward High School, where he discovered his passion for painting and began his journey as an artist.
Career
Bob Ross is an American painter and television personality best known for his instructional television show The Joy of Painting. His soothing voice, gentle demeanor and signature “happy little trees” have made him a beloved figure in the art world.
Ross served in the United States Air Force for 20 years, rising to the rank of sergeant. During his service, he discovered his passion for painting. After retiring from the army, Ross focused on pursuing art.
He studied with famous painter William Alexander and developed his distinctive “wet on wet” technique. Despite his success and fame, Ross remained humble and used his platform to teach others about the joy of painting and the beauty of nature.
Many people today still remember him and admire his contributions to the world of art. Bob Ross’s career is a testament to his passion and artistic talent. He is a self-taught artist who has developed a unique painting style that captivates viewers.
In 1983, he launched his groundbreaking television show, “The Joy of Painting,” which aired on PBS and taught viewers how to paint landscapes using his signature techniques. Ross’s calm and encouraging approach made the show a huge success, attracting millions of viewers and earning him a passionate fan base.
In addition to his television show, Ross’s legacy lives on through his highly sought-after paintings and iconic slogan, “happy little tree.” His teachings continue to inspire artists at all levels, demonstrating his lasting impact on the art world.
Awards and nominations
Primetime Emmy Awards:
- Nominated: For the work “The Joy of Painting” in 1990.
PGA Awards:
- Winner: With “The Joy of Painting” in 1990.
Social Media
- Instagram name:@bobross_thejoyofpainting
- Twitter name: @BobRossOfficial
Personal life
Bob Ross is a beloved painter and television host, famous for his soothing voice and ability to create beautiful landscapes in just minutes. He was married three times during his life.
His first marriage was to Vivian Ridge in 1965, and they had a son named Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross, who also became a painter and appeared in The Joy of Painting. After divorcing Vivian, Ross married Jane Ross in 1977 but they had no children.
Unfortunately, Jane passed away from cancer in 1992. Two months before her death, Ross married Lynda Brown. Despite his fame, Ross is a private person and rarely gives interviews. He is also famous for his love of animals, especially his pet squirrels. Ross died on July 4, 1995 at the age of 52.
Net worth
Bob Ross was a beloved American painter and art instructor, known for his gentle demeanor and encouraging words on the television show “The Joy of Painting.”
Throughout his career, he has amassed an estimated net worth of $10 million through various business ventures in the art world. Despite his success, Ross passed away on July 4, 1995 at the age of 52, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and bring joy to people around the world.
