I've met plenty of people that do this. They are contractors, they take on a contract, work for 6 months, take the next 6 off. I also know some tax accountants that do this.

I'd say being able to work on and off at that schedule isn't something I can find on a job board. Hence my point above of noteriety.

Most companies won't hire people with a high degree of notoriety. They may hire those people if they have some degree of fame.