Richard Kiel Net Worth: A Look At The Life And Career Of The Late Actor

Introduction

Richard Kiel was an American actor, best known for his towering height (7’2″) and his iconic role as Jaws in the James Bond franchise. Throughout his career, Kiel appeared in over 70 films and television shows, earning him a substantial net worth. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Kiel’s life and career, as well as his estimated net worth at the time of his passing in 2014.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Richard Kiel was born on September 13, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan. He grew up in a family of tall people, with his father standing at 6’7″ and his mother at 6’0″. Kiel’s height was due to a rare hormonal disorder called acromegaly, which also caused him to have an oversized jaw.

Despite his height, Kiel was a shy child and often felt self-conscious about his appearance. However, he found solace in acting and began performing in school plays. After graduating high school, Kiel attended the University of Michigan, where he studied drama and played football.

Kiel’s first acting role was in the 1960 film “The Little Shop of Horrors,” where he played a dental patient. He went on to appear in several other films and television shows throughout the 1960s and 1970s, including “The Wild Wild West,” “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.,” and “Barbary Coast.”

The Role of Jaws

In 1977, Kiel landed the role of Jaws in the James Bond film “The Spy Who Loved Me.” Jaws was a henchman with metal teeth who became an instant fan favorite. Kiel went on to reprise the role in the 1979 Bond film “Moonraker.”

Thanks to his success as Jaws, Kiel became a household name and was in high demand as a character actor. He appeared in several other films and television shows throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including “Happy Gilmore,” “Tangled,” and “The Simpsons.”

Richard Kiel’s Net Worth

At the time of his passing in 2014, Richard Kiel’s estimated net worth was $5 million. This was largely due to his successful acting career, which spanned over five decades.

In addition to his acting work, Kiel also dabbled in other ventures, including authoring a book and appearing in commercials. He was also a popular guest at fan conventions, where he would sign autographs and chat with fans.

Legacy and Impact

Richard Kiel passed away on September 10, 2014, at the age of 74. Despite his passing, his legacy as an actor and pop culture icon lives on. Fans still remember him fondly for his role as Jaws, and his larger-than-life personality continues to inspire others.

Overall, Richard Kiel was a beloved actor who left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. His net worth was just one small part of his legacy, and he will always be remembered for his talent, his charisma, and his unforgettable performances.