Sam Waterston, a veteran actor of both stage and screen, has established himself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Born on November 15, 1940, Waterston’s career spans over five decades, during which he has garnered significant acclaim for his performances. Most notably, his role as Jack McCoy in the enduring TV series “Law & Order” has not only cemented his status as a household name but also significantly contributed to his wealth.
With a net worth that has grown substantially over the years, Sam Waterston’s financial achievements reflect the success of his professional journey. His stable income from ongoing television roles, along with his appearances in film and theater, have fortified his standing in the industry. Moreover, his enduring dedication to the craft of acting has allowed him to accumulate wealth while engaging with a variety of meaningful roles and projects.
Key Takeaways
- Sam Waterston is a well-established actor with a career spanning over 50 years.
- He has achieved a substantial net worth through consistent television, film, and stage roles.
- Waterston’s prominent role in “Law & Order” significantly contributed to his financial standing.
Sam Waterston’s Appearance (Height, Hair, Eyes & More)
Height |
6 ft 1 in
1.85 m |
Weight |
158 pounds
72 kg |
Hair Color | Salt and Pepper |
Eye Color | Blue |
Body Type | Average |
Sexual Orientation | Straight |
Facts About Sam Waterston
Nationality | American |
Estimated Net Worth | $20 Million |
Religion | Episcopalian |
Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
Birthplace | Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States |
Birthday | November 15, 1940 |
Net Worth
Sam Waterston’s financial profile as an actor showcases a net worth in the realm of $20 to $25 million by the year 2024, a testament to his enduring career in the entertainment industry.
Contracts & Endorsements
Waterson’s substantial earnings are primarily attributed to his television and film work. His salary from his longstanding role in “Law & Order” notably contributed to his wealth. Information on his endorsements, if any, remains confidential.
Real Estate
Waterston’s investment in real estate includes ownership of residences in two prestigious locations: New York City and Martha’s Vineyard. These properties form a part of his asset base, reflecting his financial acumen.
Career
Sam Waterston’s career has been distinguished by his versatility, spanning across theater, television, and film. His portrayal of complex characters such as Jack McCoy in “Law & Order” and roles in critically acclaimed films like “The Killing Fields” have cemented his place as a respected American actor.
Awards
- Academy Award for Best Actor: Nominated for his role as Sydney Schanberg in “The Killing Fields.”
- Golden Globe Awards: Multiple nominations, with a win for his role in “I’ll Fly Away.”
- Screen Actors Guild Awards: Received nominations for his performances in film and television.
- Tony Award: Nominated for his work on Broadway in productions like “Abe Lincoln in Illinois.”
- Drama Desk Award: Nominated for his outstanding stage performances.
- American Theatre Hall of Fame: Inducted, recognizing his significant contributions to theater.
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: Has a star dedicated to him as a recognition of his work in the entertainment industry.
Charity
Sam Waterston’s dedication to charitable causes reflects his concern for social issues, notably climate change. He has been actively involved with organizations that focus on environmental conservation and advocacy.
- Organizations: He supports Oceana, an international group aiming to protect and restore the world’s oceans. His work with this group highlights his commitment to environmental causes.
- Activism: Waterston’s environmental efforts extend beyond monetary support. He has participated in climate marches and public awareness campaigns, using his platform to amplify the urgency of combating climate change.
In 2010, Waterston was arrested during a protest against mountaintop removal mining in Washington, D.C., exemplifying his willingness to take bold action for environmental causes. His stand wasn’t a solitary act; it echoed his lifelong support for robust and responsible environmental policy and showcased his readiness to participate in civil disobedience for a greater good.
In summary, Sam Waterston’s charitable activities are deeply intertwined with his environmental advocacy. He uses his influence to address climate change both through organizational involvement and personal action.
Family & Relationships
Sam Waterston has been married twice. His first marriage was to Barbara Rutledge Johns in 1964, but the couple eventually divorced in 1975. Subsequently, Waterston married Lynn Louisa Woodruff in 1976. Together, they have had three children: Elisabeth, Katherine, and Graham.
- Elisabeth Waterston, born in 1977, followed her father into the acting profession.
- Katherine Waterston, born in 1980, is also an actress, recognized for her work both on stage and in film.
- Graham Waterston, their youngest sibling, has similarly pursued a career in the entertainment industry.
Sam Waterston’s family includes another child from his first marriage, James Waterston, who is also an actor. Furthermore, Sam is the father of George Chychele Waterston, although the details about George are not extensively publicized.
The children evidently share a common thread in their career choices, with most of them gravitating toward the performing arts, reflecting their father’s influence and legacy in the industry. This familial pattern highlights not only a shared profession but perhaps also a deep-rooted passion for acting and storytelling that spans across generations. Sam Waterston’s personal life seems characterized by his longstanding, stable relationship with Lynn Louisa Woodruff and a family that embraces the creative call of the performing arts.
Early Life
Samuel Atkinson Waterston, an esteemed American actor, was born in 1943 in Springfield, Massachusetts. Possessing a towering stature, Waterston’s early years set the stage for a prominent career in acting.
Education
Waterston honed his craft at Yale University, where he rigorously studied acting. His educational background provided a solid foundation for his diverse and successful endeavors in theater, television, and film.
Net Worth of Other Notable 1990s Actors
Dan Aykroyd’s Net Worth
Dan Aykroyd’s journey from a comedic actor to a versatile entertainer and successful entrepreneur illustrates a path of extraordinary achievement and financial growth. From his early days on “Saturday Night Live” to his ventures into the business world with ventures such as the House of Blues and Crystal Head Vodka, Aykroyd has effectively leveraged his talents and fame into a considerable fortune. His ability to diversify his career beyond the entertainment industry, engaging in various business enterprises and real estate investments, has significantly contributed to his wealth. Additionally, Aykroyd’s commitment to philanthropy and his personal life, marked by a long-standing marriage and dedication to family, mirror the depth of his character beyond his professional success. Amidst these accomplishments, Dan Aykroyd’s net worth, estimated at approximately $250 million in 2024, reflects not only his financial acumen but also a career that has successfully blended creativity, business savvy, and a dedication to giving back.
James Woods’s Net Worth
James Howard Woods, an esteemed American actor, has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry with his intense performances and distinct voice. With a career spanning several decades, Woods has taken on a wide variety of roles that showcase his versatility and depth as an actor. His work has not only earned him critical acclaim, including Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards, but also a place among Hollywood’s respected actors. Woods’s choice of projects, ranging from dramatic films to voice work in animated features, reflects his broad talent and commitment to his craft. This dedication to his profession, coupled with his skills in selecting roles that resonate with audiences and critics alike, has contributed to his financial well-being. James Woods’s net worth, resulting from his successful career in film, television, and voice acting, is a testament to his enduring presence in the entertainment industry.