Few television personalities have left as strong a mark as Judge Judy Sheindlin. Best known for her sharp tongue, no-nonsense demeanor, and unwavering sense of justice, she became a cultural icon through her long-running court show Judge Judy. Her influence extends beyond television—she redefined how justice was portrayed in daytime programming and helped shape the public’s view of small claims court proceedings. Many fans still ask in 2025: Is Judge Judy still alive?
This article provides a definitive answer while offering a comprehensive look at her current status, legendary career, health updates, and enduring influence on television and public discourse.
Is Judge Judy Still Alive in 2025?
Yes, Judge Judy is still alive as of 2025.
Born Judith Susan Sheindlin on October 21, 1942, she is now 82 years old. She remains active in media and legal commentary and continues to appear in public life. While no longer presiding over the original Judge Judy series, she is not retired and still actively participates in television through new programming.
Early Life and Legal Background
Judge Judy was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, in a Jewish family that emphasized education and discipline. Her early ambitions always leaned toward law and public service.
Educational Background:
- Bachelor’s degree from American University
- Law degree from New York Law School, graduating in 1965
She began her legal career in family court, where she developed a reputation for being a tough but fair prosecutor. Her practical, cut-to-the-chase style won her respect within the legal system long before she became a household name.
Rise to Television Fame
Judy Sheindlin’s no-nonsense attitude first caught national attention when a 60 Minutes segment featured her tough work as a New York family court judge. That exposure led to her court show debut.
Launch of Judge Judy:
- Premiered in 1996
- Ran for 25 seasons until 2021
- Became the highest-rated courtroom series in TV history
- Known for its 30-minute format, quick judgments, and real litigants
Millions tuned in daily to see Sheindlin’s sharp critiques, witty takedowns, and steadfast commitment to common-sense justice. She wasn’t just entertaining—she was authoritative.
Continued Success with Judy Justice
Following the conclusion of Judge Judy in 2021, Sheindlin launched a new courtroom series, Judy Justice, through streaming platforms.
About Judy Justice:
- Features a similar format but with a more modern set and new cast members
- Includes her granddaughter, Sarah Rose, as a legal clerk
- Allows Sheindlin to maintain a visible role while mentoring new legal talent
As of 2025, the show continues to produce new episodes, with Judge Judy still presiding over small claims cases. Her passion for law and justice remains evident in every ruling.
Health and Lifestyle
Judge Judy has remained in good health well into her 80s, continuing to work regularly and participate in interviews, public appearances, and legal seminars.
Health Overview:
- No major public health scares reported
- Maintains an energetic, fast-paced work ethic
- Advocates for mental sharpness and physical fitness in aging
Sheindlin often attributes her health to routine, reading, and staying intellectually active—traits that have always been central to her public and private persona.
Personal Life and Family
Judy Sheindlin’s personal life has been relatively private, though certain aspects are well-known due to her public status.
Key Facts:
- Married to Jerry Sheindlin, a former judge and television personality
- Together they have five children and multiple grandchildren
- Describes her family as her “true anchor” outside the courtroom
Despite her tough on-screen persona, she has often shared that her off-camera life is filled with humor, love, and close family bonds.
Net Worth and Financial Milestones
Judge Judy is one of the highest-paid personalities in television history.
Financial Highlights:
- Reportedly earned $47 million annually at the peak of Judge Judy
- Her net worth exceeds $440 million as of 2025
- Holds numerous investment and production assets through her company, Queen Bee Productions
She has frequently made Forbes’ lists for top-earning media figures and was among the first women to break financial barriers in daytime television.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Judge Judy redefined courtroom television. Before her, legal shows were often overly dramatized. She brought real-life disputes and real consequences into living rooms with clarity and conviction.
Legacy in Media:
- Set the gold standard for courtroom reality shows
- Inspired similar programs, though none reached her level of success
- Frequently parodied in popular culture, from Saturday Night Live to animated series
Her style—sharp, quick, and no-nonsense—has become a television archetype. She left a lasting mark not just as a personality, but as a trailblazer for women in law and media.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout her career, Judge Judy has received both legal and entertainment honors.
Notable Honors:
- Daytime Emmy Award (for Judge Judy)
- Lifetime Achievement Award from the Gracie Awards
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star
- Named one of Forbes’ Most Powerful Women multiple times
These accolades underscore her unmatched blend of entertainment and judicial excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Judge Judy still alive in 2025?
Yes. Judge Judy is alive at 82 years old and remains active in television and public life.
What is Judge Judy doing now?
She currently stars in Judy Justice, a streaming courtroom series that continues her work from Judge Judy, with some updated features and a modernized cast.
Was Judge Judy a real judge?
Yes. Judy Sheindlin served as a family court judge in New York for over a decade before transitioning to television.
How long did Judge Judy air?
The show ran for 25 seasons, from 1996 to 2021, and remains the longest-running court show hosted by a single judge.
How much is Judge Judy worth?
Her estimated net worth is over $440 million, making her one of the wealthiest personalities in television history.
Is Judge Judy married?
Yes. She has been married to Jerry Sheindlin, also a former judge, since 1977 (with a brief separation in the 1990s).
Conclusion
So, is Judge Judy still alive? Absolutely—and still commanding the courtroom, even if it now streams online rather than airs on network television. At 82, she remains a formidable legal authority, a media mogul, and a trailblazer for women in law and entertainment.
Her ability to transition from a traditional family court judge to a television phenomenon—then to a streaming platform—shows not only her adaptability but her commitment to delivering real, grounded justice in a way that resonates with millions. Judge Judy isn’t just still alive—she’s still relevant, still impactful, and still the face of American courtroom television.