Net Worth Ranker
What Is Richard Dawson’s Net Worth?
At the time of his death in June 2012, Richard Dawson’s net worth was reported to be $100,000. This figure reflects his career as an actor, comedian, and game show host, primarily known for his roles on “Hogan’s Heroes” and “Family Feud.”
Richard Dawson’s Early Career and Television Breakthroughs
Richard Dawson, born Colin Lionel Emm on November 20, 1932, in Gosport, Hampshire, England, embarked on his entertainment career after a stint in the British Merchant Navy. His early performances included appearances on BBC Radio and BBC TV in the 1950s, laying the groundwork for his later success.
Dawson made his American television debut in 1961 as the host of “The Mike Stokey Show” on KCOP-TV in Los Angeles. This early role provided him with valuable experience and exposure, leading to guest spots on popular shows such as “The Jack Benny Program,” “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” “The Outer Limits,” and “The Alfred Hitchcock Hour.” These appearances showcased his versatility and comedic timing, attracting attention from casting directors and producers.
His breakthrough came in 1965 with the CBS sitcom “Hogan’s Heroes,” where he played Corporal Peter Newkirk. The show, which ran for six seasons until 1971, became a hit, catapulting Dawson to national recognition. While specific salary details from “Hogan’s Heroes” are not publicly available, it’s reasonable to assume that his compensation increased over the show’s run due to its popularity and his integral role. During this period, he also made guest appearances on “Mr. Terrific” and “McCloud,” and became a regular performer on “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,” further expanding his television presence.
The Rise of “Family Feud” and Peak Earnings
Richard Dawson’s career reached new heights when he became the original host of “Family Feud” in 1976. The show quickly gained popularity, becoming a daytime television staple. While the exact salary figures from his initial “Family Feud” contract are not publicly disclosed, it is widely known that successful game show hosts can command substantial salaries. Given the show’s popularity, Dawson likely negotiated significant pay increases throughout his tenure.
During his time as the host of “Family Feud,” Dawson became known for kissing the female contestants, a practice that generated both affection and controversy. This unique approach, along with his quick wit and engaging personality, contributed to the show’s success and cemented his status as a beloved television personality. The original run of “Family Feud” lasted until 1985, and Dawson returned as host for a season in 1994-1995.
It’s important to note that beyond his salary as a game show host, Dawson likely earned additional income from endorsements, personal appearances, and other ventures related to his television fame. The exact figures for these earnings are not publicly available, but they would have contributed to his overall net worth. In 1987, Dawson played Damon Killian in “The Running Man”. Though it is difficult to calculate his earnings, Dawson was nominated for the Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Dawson’s return to “Family Feud” in 1994-1995 likely involved another significant contract, although details of his compensation for this period are also not publicly available. During this time, he refrained from kissing the female contestants, fulfilling a promise he made to his young daughter. Despite the change, he maintained his charismatic hosting style and continued to entertain audiences.
Other Ventures and Film Appearances
While primarily known for his television work, Richard Dawson also made appearances in several films throughout his career. In the early 1960s, he had uncredited roles in “The Longest Day” and “Promises! Promises!” His first credited role came in the 1965 war film “King Rat,” where he played a paratrooper. He also had a small role in the 1966 comedy “Munster, Go Home!”
In 1968, Dawson played Private Hugh MacDonald in the war film “The Devil’s Brigade.” His later film credits included voicing Long John Silver in the 1973 animated film “Treasure Island” and playing Damon Killian in the 1987 dystopian action film “The Running Man.” While these film roles contributed to his overall income, they were not as significant as his earnings from television.
Richard Dawson’s Personal Life and Final Years
Richard Dawson married his first wife, actress and singer Diana Dors, in 1959. They had two sons, Mark and Gary, before divorcing in 1967. In 1991, he married Gretchen Johnson, whom he had met when she was a contestant on “Family Feud” a decade earlier. They had a daughter named Shannon in 1990.
Dawson passed away from complications of esophageal cancer in June 2012 at the age of 79. He was buried in Westwood Memorial Park in Los Angeles. Information regarding his estate and any assets passed on to his heirs is not publicly available.
Summary of Richard Dawson’s Net Worth
Richard Dawson’s net worth at the time of his death was $100,000. This net worth reflected his earnings from a successful career in television and film. While specific salary figures from his various roles are not publicly available, it is clear that his work on “Hogan’s Heroes,” “Match Game,” and “Family Feud” contributed significantly to his financial success. Although Dawson was a very successful game show host, he did not accumulate the net worth of other contemporaries. Gene Rayburn’s net worth at the time of his death was approximately $5 million dollars. It is likely that Dawson’s spending habits, combined with long term health issues, depleted the estate.
