Richard Dreyfuss Net Worth, Biography, Career, and Life Journey
If you’re searching for Richard Dreyfuss net worth, here’s the direct answer: Richard Dreyfuss has an estimated net worth of $5 million as of 2025. While some might expect this Hollywood icon to have a fortune that stretches far higher, his financial story is more complex and rooted in a long career of highs, lows, and reinvention. Let’s dive deeper into the life and legacy of this Oscar-winning actor who defined an era of American cinema.
Who is Richard Dreyfuss?
Richard Dreyfuss is a legendary American actor known for his commanding presence on screen and powerful performances across a variety of genres. He rose to fame during the 1970s and 1980s with unforgettable roles in blockbuster classics such as Jaws, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and The Goodbye Girl—the last of which earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor.
His name is synonymous with some of the most influential films in Hollywood history, and despite personal and professional ups and downs, Dreyfuss remains a celebrated figure in the entertainment world.
Profile Summary of Richard Dreyfuss
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Richard Stephen Dreyfuss |
| Date of Birth | October 29, 1947 |
| Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York City, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actor, Writer, Activist |
| Years Active | 1964 – Present |
| Known For | Jaws, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, The Goodbye Girl, Mr. Holland’s Opus |
| Net Worth (2025) | $5 Million |
| Awards | Academy Award (Best Actor), Golden Globe, BAFTA nominations |
| Education | Beverly Hills High School, San Fernando Valley State College (CSU Northridge) |
| Marital Status | Married to Svetlana Erokhin (since 2006) |
| Children | 3 |
| Previous Spouses | Jeramie Rain (1983–1995), Janelle Lacey (1999–2005) |
| Advocacy | Mental Health Awareness, Civics Education (Founder of The Dreyfuss Civics Initiative) |
| Health Condition | Bipolar Disorder (publicly disclosed) |
| Notable Recognition | Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame |
| Current Activities | Public Speaking, Writing, Occasional Acting, Advocacy |
Richard Dreyfuss Net Worth Breakdown
As of 2025, Richard Dreyfuss’ net worth stands at approximately $5 million. This figure may surprise some fans given his storied career in the film industry. However, his financial situation has been shaped by multiple factors, including long gaps between major roles, legal battles, health challenges, and personal financial management decisions.
Dreyfuss has openly discussed his experiences with bipolar disorder and substance abuse, both of which impacted his earning potential during crucial years. He also took a break from acting to focus on education, activism, and writing. These pursuits, while fulfilling, did not offer the same level of financial return as his acting roles.
Early Life and Background
Richard Stephen Dreyfuss was born on October 29, 1947, in Brooklyn, New York City, to a middle-class Jewish family. His father, Norman Dreyfuss, was a lawyer who later turned into a restaurateur, and his mother, Geraldine, was a peace activist. The family moved to Los Angeles when Richard was young, allowing him to immerse himself in the entertainment world early on.
Dreyfuss displayed a natural flair for performance from a young age, participating in school plays and local theater productions. He attended Beverly Hills High School, where he began to pursue acting more seriously. After high school, he studied drama at San Fernando Valley State College (now Cal State Northridge).
Richard Dreyfuss’s Career: A Hollywood Legend
Breakthrough and Rise to Fame
Richard Dreyfuss started his career in television in the mid-1960s, landing small roles in shows such as Bewitched, Gidget, and Peyton Place. His early work eventually led to bit parts in feature films, including a brief appearance in The Graduate (1967).
However, his big break came with the 1973 film American Graffiti, directed by George Lucas. Playing Curt Henderson, Dreyfuss stood out with his charisma and relatability, helping the film become a box-office hit and cultural landmark.
This success paved the way for a series of high-profile roles in the 1970s:
- Jaws (1975) – Dreyfuss played marine biologist Matt Hooper in Steven Spielberg’s thriller, which became the highest-grossing film at the time.
- Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) – Another Spielberg collaboration, this sci-fi drama showcased Dreyfuss’s emotional range and became an instant classic.
- The Goodbye Girl (1977) – His performance as struggling actor Elliot Garfield earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, making him the youngest actor at the time (age 30) to win in that category.
Challenges and Comebacks
Despite early success, the 1980s brought challenges. Dreyfuss struggled with drug addiction, particularly cocaine, which led to a highly publicized arrest in 1982. This negatively impacted his reputation and career opportunities.
However, he made a successful return to the big screen with roles in:
- Stakeout (1987)
- Always (1989)
- What About Bob? (1991)
- Mr. Holland’s Opus (1995), where he received an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of a music teacher over several decades.
In the 2000s and 2010s, Dreyfuss continued to act in both film and television, including projects like W., Poseidon, and Madoff. He also lent his voice to animated features and made appearances in stage productions.
Personal Life of Richard Dreyfuss
Marriages and Family
Richard Dreyfuss has been married three times:
- Jeramie Rain (1983–1995): They have three children together.
- Janelle Lacey (1999–2005)
- Svetlana Erokhin (2006–present)
His relationships have often been kept private, though he has occasionally spoken about the joys and struggles of family life.
Mental Health Advocacy
Dreyfuss has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness. He was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in his 40s and has since worked to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. His openness has helped many better understand the condition and encouraged others in the industry to share their stories.
Other Ventures and Contributions
Political Activism
Outside of acting, Dreyfuss has been active in politics and civic engagement. He is known for his progressive views and has frequently spoken on issues like education reform, civic literacy, and democratic responsibility. In 2006, he founded The Dreyfuss Civics Initiative, a non-profit focused on reviving civic education in American schools.
Teaching and Writing
Dreyfuss has also spent time teaching and writing, sharing his experiences with students and readers interested in film and politics. He served as a visiting professor at Oxford University, where he taught courses on the impact of media and storytelling on democratic societies.
Awards and Recognitions
Richard Dreyfuss’s work has been widely recognized by the entertainment industry:
- Academy Award for Best Actor – The Goodbye Girl (1977)
- BAFTA Award Nomination
- Golden Globe Awards
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star – Received in 1996
His legacy is cemented in Hollywood history, not just through awards but through the deep emotional resonance of his characters and the enduring popularity of his films.
Where Is Richard Dreyfuss Now?
As of 2025, Dreyfuss remains semi-retired from acting but occasionally appears in independent films, voice work, or guest interviews. He spends much of his time focusing on advocacy work, public speaking, and writing. Despite being less visible in Hollywood than during his peak, his influence continues to be felt across the industry.
Summary
Richard Dreyfuss is a veteran American actor best known for his memorable roles in classics like Jaws, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and The Goodbye Girl. As of 2025, Richard Dreyfuss’ net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. While some might expect a higher figure given his iconic career, Dreyfuss has had financial ups and downs over the years, partly due to legal disputes, lifestyle choices, and a career that saw fewer blockbusters in later years.
Despite this, Dreyfuss remains a celebrated figure in Hollywood, known not only for his Oscar-winning performances but also for his outspoken advocacy on civics education and mental health awareness. With over five decades in the entertainment industry, he continues to engage with fans and audiences through interviews, public speaking, and occasional film or TV appearances.
FAQs about Richard Dreyfuss
Q1: What is Richard Dreyfuss’ net worth in 2025?
A: As of 2025, his estimated net worth is $5 million.
Q2: What is Richard Dreyfuss best known for?
A: He is famous for starring in classic films like Jaws, The Goodbye Girl, and Close Encounters of the Third Kind.
Q3: Has Richard Dreyfuss won any major awards?
A: Yes, he won the Academy Award for Best Actor in 1978 for The Goodbye Girl.
Q4: What advocacy work is Richard Dreyfuss involved in?
A: He is a strong advocate for civics education and founded The Dreyfuss Civics Initiative to promote civic understanding in schools.
Q5: Is Richard Dreyfuss still active in acting?
A: While he is semi-retired, Dreyfuss occasionally appears in films and television and frequently speaks at public events.
Q6: Where does Richard Dreyfuss live now?
A: He resides primarily in California, but he has also spent time in New York and other states due to work and family.
Q7: Does Richard Dreyfuss have any health issues?
A: Yes, he has been open about living with bipolar disorder and advocates for mental health awareness.
