Overview

William George Zane Jr., most famously known as Billy Zane, is an American actor renowned for his versatile performances across film and television. Born on February 24, 1966, in Chicago, Illinois, to parents who were both amateur actors, Zane developed an early passion for the performing arts. His career began with roles in popular films like ‘Back to the Future’ and ‘Critters,’ but he gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Caledon Hockley, the antagonist in James Cameron’s blockbuster ‘Titanic’. This role earned him an MTV Movie Award nomination for Best Villain. Beyond ‘Titanic,’ Zane has appeared in numerous films including ‘Dead Calm,’ ‘The Phantom,’ and ‘Memphis Belle,’ showcasing his ability to portray both sympathetic and unsympathetic characters. He has also had notable television roles in series such as ‘Twin Peaks,’ ‘Charmed,’ and ‘Boston Public.’ In addition to acting, Zane is also involved in producing. He is of Greek descent, and his family’s original surname was Zanetakos. Billy Zane remains a recognizable figure in Hollywood, continuing to work in film and television. He also has other interests, including painting and collecting cars.

What Is Billy Zane’s Net Worth?

Billy Zane, the American actor renowned for his diverse roles across film and television, has amassed a considerable fortune throughout his career. As of 2025, Billy Zane’s net worth is estimated to be $20 million. This valuation reflects his success in the entertainment industry, spanning decades of work in notable productions. His role as Caledon Hockley in the 1997 blockbuster “Titanic” significantly contributed to his financial standing, alongside other roles in films and television series.

Early Career and Key Roles Contributing to Billy Zane’s Net Worth

Zane’s journey in the entertainment industry began with early roles in iconic films like “Back to the Future” (1985) and “Critters” (1986). These initial appearances, while not leading roles, provided valuable experience and exposure, laying the groundwork for future success. Guest appearances on television shows such as “Murder, She Wrote,” “Matlock,” and “Crime Story” further solidified his presence in the industry.

A significant early role was in the 1989 horror film “Dead Calm,” where he starred alongside Nicole Kidman. This role showcased his acting abilities and expanded his range. Also in 1989, Zane appeared in “Going Overboard” with Adam Sandler and Billy Bob Thornton, and reprised his role in “Back to The Future II.” These roles in the late 1980s and early 1990s helped Zane build his reputation as a versatile actor capable of handling diverse characters and genres. His first leading role in a feature film came in 1990 with the science fiction film “Megaville,” indicating a progression in his career trajectory. In 1991, he played a leading role in the crime romance film “Blood and Concrete,” and he made an appearance as John Justice Wheeler in the second season of the television show “Twin Peaks,” enhancing his visibility and contributing to his growing net worth.

In 1996, Zane secured the titular role in the comic book action film “The Phantom,” a significant milestone in his career. However, it was his portrayal of Caledon Hockley in James Cameron’s “Titanic” (1997) that catapulted him to international fame and substantially boosted his net worth. “Titanic” grossed over $2 billion at the box office, winning 11 Academy Awards. While Zane’s specific salary for the film isn’t publicly disclosed, the film’s success undoubtedly increased his market value and subsequent earnings potential. This role earned him an MTV Movie Award nomination for Best Villain and a shared SAG Award nomination for Best Performance by a Cast, further cementing his status in Hollywood.

Post-2000s Projects and Continued Earnings

Following the success of “Titanic,” Billy Zane continued to secure roles in both film and television, contributing to his consistent earnings. In 1998, he lent his voice to the animated television series “The New Adventures of Batman,” and in 1999, he portrayed Marc Anthony in the television miniseries “Cleopatra.” These roles demonstrated his versatility and appeal across different media.

In the early 2000s, Zane appeared in television films such as “Sole Survivor” and “Hendrix.” He also had a supporting role in the critically acclaimed film “The Believer” (2001), starring alongside Ryan Gosling. That same year, he made a cameo as himself in the comedy “Zoolander,” and starred in the film “Morgan’s Ferry.” Zane’s presence on the television series “Boston Public” further expanded his reach and audience, adding to his income streams.

From November 2002 to January 2003, Zane starred as Billy Flynn in “Chicago” on Broadway. While specific financial details of his Broadway engagement are not publicly available, such roles typically provide actors with a combination of salary and potential profit-sharing, impacting their net worth positively. In 2003, he starred in the horror film “Vlad,” followed by an appearance in the comedy-drama “Silver City” in 2004.

In 2005, Zane appeared in several episodes of the fantasy drama “Charmed,” playing a demon who loved poetry. Recurring roles on television series provide a steady income stream and maintain an actor’s visibility. In 2006, he starred in the Turkish film “Valley of the Wolves Iraq.” Also in 2006, Zane had another leading role onstage in the production “Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks,” which premiered on London’s West End. In 2007, he appeared in the children’s film “Fishtales.” He concluded the decade with recurring roles on television series such as “Samantha Who?” and “The Deep End,” further contributing to his earnings.

The 2010s saw Zane continuing to diversify his roles across film and television. In 2011, he starred in the action movie “Guido,” and in 2012, he appeared in the biographical film “A Green Story” and the independent drama “Electrik Children.” In 2013, he had a supporting role in the horror film “The Employer” and starred in the action movie “Blood of Redemption.” Zane’s consistent work in the industry ensures a steady accumulation of wealth over time.

In 2014, he starred in several films, including the drama “A Winter’s Rose,” the horror film “The Ganzfeld Haunting,” the comedy-horror “The Ghost of Goodnight Lane,” and the drama “Finding Harmony.” These diverse roles showcase Zane’s commitment to his craft and his ability to adapt to various genres, all of which contribute to his overall financial success.

Real Estate and Assets Potentially Contributing to Billy Zane’s Net Worth

While specific details about Billy Zane’s real estate holdings and other assets are not publicly available, it is common for actors of his stature to invest in properties and other ventures. Real estate investments can appreciate over time, adding significantly to an individual’s net worth. Given his $20 million net worth, it is plausible that Zane owns one or more properties, possibly including a primary residence in Los Angeles or another desirable location, and potentially additional investment properties.

In addition to real estate, Billy Zane may have investments in stocks, bonds, or other financial instruments. Many high-net-worth individuals diversify their portfolios to manage risk and maximize returns. Furthermore, Zane’s involvement in various film and television projects likely provides him with residuals and royalties, which contribute to his ongoing income. It is also possible that Zane has invested in private businesses or ventures, although specific details are not publicly known.

Moreover, actors often possess valuable personal property, such as art collections, vehicles, or other luxury items. While there is no specific information about Billy Zane’s personal collections, it is reasonable to assume that he owns assets beyond real estate and financial investments, further contributing to his overall net worth.

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