Net Worth Ranker
What Is Chris Messina’s Net Worth
Chris Messina, an accomplished American actor, producer, writer, and director, has cultivated a notable career in the entertainment industry. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated to be $4 million. This financial standing is primarily attributed to his extensive work in television and film, complemented by his endeavors in writing, producing, and directing. Messina’s career spans over two decades, during which he has accumulated over 70 acting credits, including roles in commercially successful films and critically acclaimed television series.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Christopher Messina was born on August 11, 1974, in New York City. He spent his formative years on Long Island, where he developed an interest in theater while attending Northport High School. After graduating high school, Messina briefly attended Marymount Manhattan College, but he departed after only one semester. While specific details regarding his financial resources during his early life are not publicly available, it is evident that his dedication to acting began early. Messina initiated his professional acting career in 1998, securing minor roles in notable films such as “Rounders,” “The Siege,” and “You’ve Got Mail.” These early film appearances provided Messina with invaluable exposure to the industry, although precise income figures from these initial roles are not available. His early television guest appearances on “Law & Order” in 1995, 1996, and 2003, as well as “Third Watch” in 2000, “Big Apple” in 2001, and “Medium” in 2007, all served as critical steps in establishing his career.
In 2005, Messina landed a recurring role as Ted Fairwell on HBO’s “Six Feet Under.” This role marked a significant advancement in his career, providing him with greater visibility and stability. While the exact salary details for his role on “Six Feet Under” are not publicly accessible, this opportunity undoubtedly contributed to his growing net worth. Concurrently, Messina continued to enhance his portfolio with roles in films such as “Turn It Up” (2000), “Ordinary Sinner” (2001), “Road” (2005), “Ira & Abby” (2006), “Towelhead” (2007), “Humboldt County” (2008), “Made of Honor” (2008), “Vicky Cristina Barcelona” (2008), “Brief Interviews with Hideous Men” (2009), “Away We Go” (2009), and “Julie & Julia” (2009). In 2007, “Daily Variety” recognized his rising status by naming him one of the “10 Actors to Watch,” solidifying his position as a promising talent in the industry.
Notable Television and Film Roles
Chris Messina’s rise to prominence included significant roles in both television and film, which have been instrumental in building his $4 million net worth. His portrayal of Chris Sanchez on FX’s “Damages” (2011–2012) and Reese Lansing on HBO’s “The Newsroom” (2012–2014) are particularly noteworthy. His role as Dr. Daniel Castellano on “The Mindy Project” (2012–2017) further solidified his reputation. During his time on “The Mindy Project,” Messina was a series regular for the first four seasons, guest-starred in the fifth season, and had a recurring role in the sixth. Although the precise per-episode salary for “The Mindy Project” remains undisclosed, being a series regular for multiple seasons significantly contributed to his income. Critics’ Choice Television Awards, Gold Derby Awards, and Satellite Awards nominated him for his performance in “The Mindy Project.” These roles have not only contributed financially but have also increased his visibility and appeal within the entertainment industry.
Messina’s participation in the critically acclaimed film “Argo” (2012) further elevated his profile. The film, directed by Ben Affleck, grossed $232.3 million worldwide against a budget of $44.5 million, making it a substantial commercial success. While Messina’s individual earnings from “Argo” are not publicly detailed, the film’s success and his involvement undoubtedly bolstered his net worth and opened doors to future opportunities. Messina’s role as Detective Richard Willis in the HBO miniseries “Sharp Objects” (2018) added to his repertoire of complex and compelling characters. The show received a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Limited Series, enhancing Messina’s prestige within the industry. In 2020, Messina took on the role of villain Victor Zsasz in the DC Comics film “Birds of Prey.” While his exact compensation for “Birds of Prey” is not public information, this high-profile role in a major comic book film franchise likely commanded a substantial salary and enhanced his marketability. These roles have contributed significantly to his financial standing and continue to open doors for future opportunities.
Producing, Directing, and Other Ventures
In addition to his acting career, Chris Messina has expanded his involvement in the entertainment industry through producing and directing, further influencing his net worth. He executive produced and starred in the 2012 films “28 Hotel Rooms” and “Fairhaven.” Although specific financial details regarding the profitability of these ventures are not available, taking on both producing and acting responsibilities typically results in a greater share of the revenue. Messina’s directorial debut came with the film “Alex of Venice” (2014), in which he also starred. While the financial success of “Alex of Venice” is not widely documented, directing a feature film provides opportunities for revenue through distribution rights and potential future projects. These ventures showcase Messina’s diverse talents and his commitment to various aspects of filmmaking, contributing to his overall financial portfolio.
Awards, Nominations, and Industry Recognition
Chris Messina’s achievements have been recognized through numerous awards and nominations, adding to his industry reputation and indirectly impacting his net worth by increasing his marketability and demand. In 2011, he won a CinEuphoria Award for Best Supporting Actor – International Competition for “Away We Go.” The “Argo” cast won a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, as well as a Palm Springs International Film Festival Ensemble Cast Award. He received Critics Choice Television Award nominations for Best Actor in a Comedy Series for “The Mindy Project” in 2014 and 2015, further solidifying his reputation in comedy. His Gold Derby Award nominations for Drama Guest Actor for “Damages” (2012), Comedy Lead Actor for “The Mindy Project” (2014), and Movie/Limited Series Supporting Actor for “Sharp Objects” (2019) highlight the breadth of his acting talents. These accolades not only recognize his artistic contributions but also enhance his professional standing, potentially leading to higher-paying roles and additional opportunities in the future.
Personal Life and Real Estate
Chris Messina’s personal life has seen some changes over the years. He was married to actress Rosemarie DeWitt in 1995, and they divorced in 2006. He is currently married to producer Jennifer Todd, and they have two sons, Milo, born on May 31, 2008, and Giovanni, born on October 15, 2009. Specific details regarding Messina’s real estate holdings are not publicly available. Real estate can often represent a significant portion of an individual’s net worth, especially for high-net-worth individuals in the entertainment industry. Lacking details regarding specific addresses, property values, and mortgage information, it is difficult to ascertain the value or impact of his real estate holdings on his overall net worth.
