Hedge fund manager David Tepper became a billionaire widely known to CNBC watchers by scoring on risky investments, especially during the financial crisis.
In recent years, he's added to his reputation by pouring his money into philanthropic efforts, sports teams and a "revenge house" in the Hamptons. His latest high-profile venture is a deal to buy the Carolina Panthers for $2.2 billion.
Despite his billions, Tepper, 60, is a down-to-earth guy who reflects his roots growing up in a lower-middle-class neighborhood in western Pennsylvania, says Charlotte businessman Felix Sabates, who has talked with Tepper during the sales process.