Steve Guttenberg, an American actor, comedian, and producer, has a net worth ranging between $12 million and $15 million. He rose to prominence in the 1980s, becoming one of the busiest and most popular actors of the decade, starring in hit films such as the Police Academy series, Cocoon, and Three Men and a Baby. His career spans over four decades, with accomplishments in both film and television, as well as stage performances on Broadway.
Early Life and Education
Born Steven Robert Guttenberg on August 24, 1958, in Brooklyn, New York, Guttenberg grew up in a Jewish household in the Flushing neighborhood of Queens. His mother, Ann Iris, was a surgical assistant, and his father, Jerome Stanley Guttenberg, was an electrical engineer. After his family moved to North Massapequa, Guttenberg attended Plainedge High School. During his high school years, he also participated in a summer program at Juilliard, studying under renowned actor and director John Houseman. He gained his first acting role in an off-Broadway production of The Lion in Winter. After high school, Guttenberg attended the State University of New York at Albany for one year before moving to California to pursue an acting career. One of his first jobs was appearing in a Kentucky Fried Chicken commercial as Colonel Sanders.
Rise to Fame
Guttenberg’s first on-screen credit came in the 1977 TV movie Something for Joey, followed by small parts in various films throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s. His big break came in 1982 when he starred in Barry Levinson’s comedy Diner, earning significant recognition. However, it was his role as Cadet Carey Mahoney in the 1984 hit Police Academy that made him a household name. The success of Police Academy catapulted Guttenberg to stardom, leading to sequels like Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment (1985) and Police Academy 3: Back in Training (1986).
During the mid-1980s, Guttenberg starred in several other successful films, including Cocoon (1985), Short Circuit (1986), and Three Men and a Baby (1987), which became the biggest financial hit of his career. He starred alongside Tom Selleck and Ted Danson in this family-friendly comedy, which grossed over $214 million at the box office. Guttenberg’s career continued with roles in Three Men and a Little Lady (1990), Zeus and Roxanne (1997), and other made-for-TV movies like Single Santa Meets Mrs. Claus.
Broadway and Television Career
In addition to his film work, Steve Guttenberg made his Broadway debut in 1991 with the play Prelude to a Kiss. Over the years, he appeared in various stage productions, including The Boys Next Door in London’s West End and Furthest From the Sun. In 2004, Guttenberg joined the popular mystery series Veronica Mars as Mayor Woody Goodman. He also directed, produced, and starred in the 2002 film adaptation of the Broadway play P.S. Your Cat is Dead.
In 2008, Guttenberg appeared on Dancing with the Stars, where he competed alongside professional dancer Anna Trebunskaya. That same year, he released a comedy video titled Steve Guttenberg’s Steak House on Funny or Die. He also made guest appearances in shows like Party Down (2010) and Law & Order (2010). More recently, he has appeared in The Goldbergs, Paper Empire, and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver.
Awards and Honors
Throughout his career, Guttenberg has earned several accolades. In 2008, he received the Tony Randall Lifetime Achievement Award at the Fire Island Golden Wagon Film Festival for his contributions to the entertainment industry and his charitable work. In 2011, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He also received a key to the city of Miami in 2014 for his charitable efforts in raising awareness for animal rights.
Philanthropy and Charitable Work
When not acting, Steve Guttenberg devotes his time to philanthropy, particularly helping the homeless and supporting young people. He established Guttenhouse, an apartment complex that provides accommodation for those who have aged out of the foster care system. Guttenberg also served as an Ambassador for Children’s Issues with the Entertainment Industry Foundation and volunteered in Houston following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. In 2016, a trust was set up in his honor to provide services to Los Angeles’ homeless population. He also joined the Honorary Board of the Lymphatic Education & Research Network to raise awareness for lymphedema and lymphatic diseases.
Personal Life
Steve Guttenberg was married to model Denise Bixler for three years before they separated in 1991. Since 2014, he has been in a relationship with reporter Emily Smith, whom he married in January 2019. They reside in New York City’s Upper West Side, where Guttenberg has rented an apartment for several decades. The couple also owns a large mansion in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, which they occasionally rent out.
Steve Guttenberg Net Worth, Financial Overview and Real Estate
Guttenberg’s net worth is estimated to be between $12 million and $15 million. His extensive film career, television appearances, Broadway roles, and production work have contributed significantly to his wealth. He has also earned from box office hits, particularly Three Men and a Baby and the Police Academy franchise. Additionally, his rental properties, including his mansion in Pacific Palisades, contribute to his financial portfolio.
In conclusion, Steve Guttenberg has enjoyed a highly successful career spanning over four decades, making him one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors from the 1980s. His philanthropic efforts and continued involvement in television, film, and theater showcase his passion for entertainment and community work.
