Dick Donato Biography: Age, Wife, Daughter, Net Worth, Height, Career, Podcast, Big Brother, TV Shows

Richard Louis Donato, famously known as Evel Dick, is an American reality television personality, bar manager, and podcaster, best recognized for his bold victory on Big Brother 8 in 2007, where his cunning strategy and confrontational style made him a polarizing yet iconic figure.

His unapologetic gameplay alongside his daughter Daniele Donato captivated audiences, earning him a $500,000 prize and a lasting legacy in the Big Brother fandom.

Profile

• Full Name: Richard Louis Donato
• Stage Name: Evel Dick
• Born: 24, June 1963
• Age: 62 years old
• Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, U.S.
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Reality Television Personality, Bar Manager, Podcaster
• Height: 1.78m
• Parents: Mr. Donato, and Mrs. Donato
• Siblings: Unknown
• Spouse: Michelle Donato (ex)
• Girlfriend: Stephanie Rogness-Fischer (ex)
• Children: Daniele Donato Briones
• Relationship: Divorced
• Net Worth: $300,000

Early Life and Education

Richard Louis Donato was born on June 24, 1963, in Los Angeles, California, to Mr. and Mrs. Donato, whose professional details remain private.

Growing up in a working-class environment, he developed a gritty, no-nonsense personality, though information about siblings or early family dynamics is scarce.

Specifics about his education are not publicly documented, but Donato worked various jobs, including as a bar manager in Huntington Beach, California, before his reality TV debut.

Of Italian-American descent, he identifies with Christian beliefs, as noted in some fan discussions, though he keeps his spiritual life largely private.

Career

Richard Louis Donato entered the public eye at 44 on Big Brother 8 in 2007, cast as part of a rivals twist alongside his estranged daughter Daniele Donato, then 20.

As a bartender with no prior media experience, he leaned on raw charisma and ruthless strategy, orchestrating evictions through bold confrontations and alliance shifts within the Late Night Crew.

His aggressive gameplay, marked by three Head of Household wins, led to a 6-1 jury vote victory, securing $500,000 and cementing his status as one of the show’s most memorable winners, despite polarizing houseguests and fans with his provocative antics.

Donato returned for Big Brother 13 in 2011, again paired with Daniele as a dynamic duo, but his stint was cut short after six days due to a medical issue—an HIV diagnosis he later disclosed publicly in 2014 on VH1’s Couples Therapy, where he appeared with then-girlfriend Stephanie Rogness-Fischer to navigate their relationship challenges.

The revelation shifted public perception, showcasing his vulnerability and advocacy for health awareness, though the couple parted ways post-show.

His brief return highlighted his enduring draw, even as he prioritized personal recovery over competition.

Since Big Brother, Donato has carved out a niche as a reality TV commentator through his “Dick at Nite” podcast, launched post-season 8, where he dissects current Big Brother episodes with insider wit and fan engagement, occasionally joined by former houseguests.

He supplements this with Cameo videos offering personalized fan interactions and sporadic appearances on reality recap shows.

His bar management work in California continues to anchor his income, while his outspoken social media presence and advocacy for HIV awareness keep him relevant, blending his brash persona with a commitment to authenticity that resonates with loyal followers.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @eveldick
• Twitter Handle: @EvelDick
• Facebook Handle: Evel Dick Donato

Personal Life

Richard Louis Donato, once married to Michelle Donato, with whom he shares daughter Daniele Donato Briones, navigated a strained relationship with her during their Big Brother 8 stint, though they later reconciled, as seen in family-oriented posts and their joint season 13 appearance.

After his divorce, he dated Stephanie Rogness-Fischer, appearing together on Couples Therapy in 2014, but the relationship ended amicably post-show.

Currently single, Donato lives a low-key life in Huntington Beach, focusing on health, family, and his podcast.

Filmography

• Big Brother 8 (2007)
• Big Brother 13 (2011)
• Couples Therapy (2014)

Net Worth

Richard Louis Donato has an estimated net worth of $300,000, primarily built from his $500,000 Big Brother 8 prize, though post-tax and personal expenses reduced this sum.

Additional income stems from his bar management career in Huntington Beach, ongoing revenue from the “Dick at Nite” podcast, and Cameo video sales, where he offers fan shoutouts at modest rates.