Net Worth Ranker
What Is David Morse’s Net Worth’ Net Worth
David Morse, a multifaceted American talent known for his acting, singing, directing, and writing, has cultivated a substantial career reflected in his net worth. As of today, David Morse’s net worth is estimated to be $4 million. This valuation encompasses his earnings from a long and varied career spanning television, film, and stage. His early work on the television series “St. Elsewhere” and subsequent roles in major motion pictures have significantly contributed to this financial standing.
Early Career and Television Success
Born on October 11, 1953, in Beverly, Massachusetts, David Morse’s early life was steeped in theatrical involvement with the Boston Repertory Company during the 1970s. He transitioned to New York to further his acting career with the Circle Repertory. His feature film debut in Richard Donner’s “Inside Moves” (1980) marked the beginning of his foray into film, where he played a basketball player turned bartender. A minor role in “Max Dugan Returns” (1982) preceded his breakthrough role as Dr. Jack Morrison on “St. Elsewhere.” This role in the medical drama allowed Morse to showcase his acting range across all six seasons, and he even directed two episodes in 1987. Although specific salary details from “St. Elsewhere” are not publicly available, it’s reasonable to assume that his earnings from this period laid a crucial foundation for his future financial success. The average salary for a lead actor in a primetime television series in the 1980s could range from $10,000 to $50,000 per episode, depending on the show’s popularity and the actor’s prominence.
Film Career Highlights and Earnings
Following “St. Elsewhere,” David Morse ventured into character roles, displaying versatility in projects such as the miniseries “Brotherhood of the Rose” (1989) and “Cry in the Wild: The Taking of Peggy Ann” (1991). His performance in Sean Penn’s “The Indian Runner” (1991) garnered an Independent Spirit Award nomination. These roles expanded his recognition and opened doors to more significant opportunities. One of David Morse’s most acclaimed performances was in “How I Learned to Drive,” where he received Drama Desk and Obie Awards. These awards signify his dedication and success in stage performances, which have earned him recognition within the theatre community.
In 1999, Morse played a prison guard in “The Green Mile,” which was a critical and commercial triumph. Though his exact salary for “The Green Mile” isn’t public knowledge, supporting roles in major films of that caliber generally commanded salaries ranging from $250,000 to upwards of $1 million, depending on the actor’s profile and the negotiated terms. He also appeared in “Proof of Life” (2000) and Lars Von Trier’s “Dancer in the Dark” (2000), showcasing his versatility by performing song and dance numbers. These high-profile film roles not only bolstered his visibility but also contributed significantly to his income, adding to David Morse’s net worth. His role as a police detective in the television series “House” further diversified his portfolio and income streams.
Later Television Roles and Recurring Income
Morse’s television career continued to thrive with roles in “House,” “Treme,” and “Hack.” Although specific salary details for these roles are not publicly disclosed, actors in recurring roles on successful television series can command substantial fees per episode. For instance, a well-known character actor in a series like “House” might earn between $50,000 and $150,000 per episode, depending on the extent of their role and the show’s popularity. These recurring roles provide a stable income stream that contributes to the overall calculation of David Morse’s net worth.
In addition to his regular television roles, Morse has also appeared in guest spots on various shows, as well as mini series. While the exact pay scale for guest appearances varies widely based on the actor’s name recognition and the budget of the show, it’s likely that Morse has earned several thousand dollars per episode for his work in these roles. These guest appearances contribute to his overall annual income and help maintain David Morse’s net worth. Additionally, his recent role in shows, alongside potential residuals, further adds to his financial portfolio.
Real Estate Investments
David Morse and his wife, Susan Wheeler Duff, have made strategic real estate investments. After losing their house in the 1994 Northridge earthquake, the family relocated to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In 2018, they purchased an 8,000-square-foot mansion in Philadelphia’s Chestnut Hill neighborhood for $2 million. This property represents a significant asset and contributes to David Morse’s net worth. The real estate market in Chestnut Hill is known for its upscale properties, and such a substantial investment suggests careful financial planning and management. Although details about previous real estate holdings are not publicly accessible, this current property demonstrates a tangible aspect of his wealth accumulation.
Personal Life and Family
David Morse has been married to actress/author Susan Wheeler Duff since 1982. They have three children together. Information regarding his personal life, including specific details about his daily routines and hobbies, is not widely publicized, as Morse tends to keep a low profile outside of his professional engagements. However, his long-term marriage and family stability suggest a balanced approach to life, combining his career with personal commitments.
Summary of David Morse’s Net Worth
In summary, David Morse’s net worth of $4 million is a result of his decades-long career in film, television, and theater. His earnings from “St. Elsewhere,” “The Green Mile,” “House,” and various other projects, combined with his real estate investments, contribute to this valuation. Although precise financial details for many of his projects are not publicly available, the general estimates based on industry standards and his roles’ prominence suggest a steady accumulation of wealth over time. David Morse’s net worth showcases his successful and enduring career in the entertainment industry.
Continued Career and Potential Future Earnings
As of 2025, David Morse continues to work on stage and television roles, ensuring a consistent stream of income. While specific details of new projects and earnings remain private, his ongoing involvement in the industry suggests a continued growth potential for his net worth. His reputation as a versatile and reliable actor secures opportunities in various productions, thus contributing to his financial stability. Morse’s dedication to his craft and strategic career choices are likely to maintain or even increase his net worth in the coming years.
