John Travolta’s career is a rollercoaster of iconic highs, some questionable lows, and impressive resilience. He’s the guy who made us want to don those white suits, then surprised us with his turn as a hitman. Let’s break down his biggest box office hits and what makes them tick.
Key Takeaways
- The Musical Man: It’s no surprise Travolta’s top earners are song-and-dance extravaganzas – the man’s got moves and the voice.
- Pulp Fiction Power: His career resurgence in the ’90s is a testament to the impact of one cult classic film.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comedies: Even when the films aren’t critically beloved, Travolta’s charisma makes them work.
Travolta’s Box Office Top Hits (From Least to Greatest)
10. Michael (1996)
Global Box Office: $120.7 Million
Travolta plays the Archangel Michael living on Earth in this quirky fantasy film. It wasn’t a huge hit, but it proves his willingness to try different genres.
9. Swordfish (2001)
Global Box Office: $147.1 Million
A flashy action-thriller where Travolta plays a morally ambiguous mastermind. It’s more style than substance, but Travolta brings a fun, villainous energy.
8. Phenomenon (1996)
Global Box Office: $152 Million
Travolta plays an ordinary man who suddenly develops extraordinary abilities. It’s sentimental but his performance taps into a different side for the star.
7. Hairspray (2007)
Global Box Office: $202.5 Million
In this musical remake, Travolta drags up as Edna Turnblad, the big-haired mother. It’s campy and fun, and Travolta fully commits to the transformation.
6. Pulp Fiction (1994)
Global Box Office: $213.9 Million
In this Quentin Tarantino masterpiece, Travolta’s hitman, Vincent Vega, revitalized his career. It’s stylish, ultraviolent, and endlessly quotable.
5. Saturday Night Fever (1977)
Global Box Office: $237.1 Million (adjusted for inflation)
The film that made Travolta a household name! His portrayal of disco-obsessed Tony Manero defined an era, and the soundtrack is iconic.
4. Face/Off (1997)
Global Box Office: $245.7 Million
This bonkers action flick sees Travolta swapping faces with Nicolas Cage, leading to over-the-top performances and cult classic status.
3. Wild Hogs (2007)
Global Box Office: $253.6 Million
This midlife crisis road trip comedy featured Travolta with other comedic stars like Tim Allen and Martin Lawrence. Not a critical darling, but audiences ate it up.
2. Look Who’s Talking (1989)
Global Box Office: $297 Million
Travolta plays a cab driver turned impromptu nanny in this family comedy. The star power (and the talking baby) propelled it to massive success.
1. Grease (1978)
Global Box Office: $396 Million (adjusted for inflation)
It’s possibly THE definitive movie musical! Travolta as greaser Danny Zuko is peak heartthrob, and the songs are unforgettable crowd-pleasers.
John Travolta’s Net Worth
The multifaceted American entertainer John Travolta’s net worth is estimated at $250 million as of January 2024. He’s renowned for his iconic roles in films like Pulp Fiction (for which he won a Golden Globe Award) and his work as a producer on the Emmy-winning series American Crime Story.
Born in New Jersey in 1954 to a family with roots in the entertainment industry, Travolta’s passion for acting led him to drop out of high school and pursue drama school. His career took off in the 1970s with roles in “The Devil’s Rain” and the classic “Grease.” After his resurgence in “Pulp Fiction,” Travolta also showcased his musical talents by releasing several albums.
In addition to his illustrious acting and singing career, John Travolta is a savvy investor with significant real estate holdings. These include a mansion near the Scientology headquarters in Florida and a 50-acre estate in Maine.