Terry Kiser is a beloved actor known for his role as Bernie Lomax in the popular comedy films Weekend at Bernie’s and its sequel. But how did this actor build his impressive net worth over the years? In this article, we will take an in-depth look at Terry Kiser Net Worth, his acting career, assets, and the smart decisions that helped him secure financial success.
Terry Kiser Biography
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Terry Kiser |
| Date of Birth | August 1, 1939 |
| Place of Birth | Elmhurst, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Known For | Role of Bernie Lomax in Weekend at Bernie’s |
| Career Start | 1970s |
| Notable Roles | Weekend at Bernie’s, Weekend at Bernie’s II, Walker, Texas Ranger |
| Awards | No major awards, but earned significant fame for his role in Weekend at Bernie’s |
| Early Life | Developed interest in acting from a young age, studied at University of Oklahoma before moving to Hollywood to pursue his career. |
Terry Kiser Net Worth: Assessing the Actor’s Earnings and Assets
Terry Kiser net worth is estimated at $16 million. This wealth comes from his decades-long career in Hollywood, as well as his smart investments in real estate, stocks, and other assets.
While acting salaries play a major role, Kiser has also benefited from residual payments, royalties, and endorsement deals. One of the most significant contributors to his wealth is his recurring income from movie royalties.
As the films he starred in continue to gain popularity, especially through streaming platforms, Kiser’s earnings from these roles keep growing. His residual income allows him to enjoy financial security long after the films’ original releases.
How Old Is Terry Kiser? – Age
Terry Kiser was born on August 1, 1939. As of 2025, he is 86 years old. Despite his age, Kiser continues to stay active in the industry. His long career is a testament to his talent and ability to adapt to changing trends in Hollywood.
As one of the veteran actors in the industry, Kiser’s fame and wealth are reflective of his consistent success and the legacy he has built over time.
Terry Kiser Family – Wife
Terry Kiser was married to Sylvie Marmet from 1987 to 2004. They had one child together. Although Kiser has kept his personal life relatively private, his family plays a key role in his overall well-being and financial success.
His strong support system has likely contributed to his long-lasting career in Hollywood.
Terry Kiser Early Life
Terry Kiser grew up in Elmhurst, Illinois, where he developed an interest in the arts. He pursued his passion for acting by studying at the University of Oklahoma before moving to Hollywood to begin his acting career.
His early roles in television and film helped him build a reputation that would lead to his iconic role as Bernie Lomax.
Despite facing the challenges that many new actors encounter, Kiser’s determination and talent led him to steady work, eventually propelling him into the limelight.
Terry Kiser Acting Career and Its Impact on His Financial Success
Terry Kiser acting career has been a driving force behind his financial success. While he’s best known for his role in Weekend at Bernie’s, Kiser’s versatility has allowed him to appear in numerous TV roles and films over the years.
He starred in shows like Maude, WKRP in Cincinnati, and Walker, Texas Ranger. Through these roles, Kiser was able to earn both acting salaries and bonuses.
His early film work, including his role in Tammy and the T-Rex and Mannequin Two: On the Move, contributed significantly to his net worth. His continued success in both television and film helped him secure long-term financial growth.
Terry Kiser Weekend at Bernie’s II
One of Terry Kiser’s most famous roles is in Weekend at Bernie’s II. This sequel continued the story of his character, Bernie Lomax, who is reanimated through a voodoo ritual.
While the movie wasn’t a critical hit, it was a commercial success and has become a cult classic. This role played a significant part in Kiser’s financial journey, as it added to his growing residual income from the film’s popularity.
The ongoing success of the Weekend at Bernie’s franchise has kept Kiser’s name relevant in Hollywood and continues to bring in royalties.
Terry Kiser A Christmas Tree Miracle
In 2013, Terry Kiser appeared in A Christmas Tree Miracle, a family holiday film where he played Henry Banks. Though not as financially successful as some of his other projects, this film contributed to his varied career and allowed him to explore different genres.
It also helped maintain his fame as a reliable actor for both comedies and more dramatic roles.
Terry Kiser Walker, Texas Ranger
Terry Kiser’s role in Walker, Texas Ranger was another highlight in his career. He played Charlie Brooks, a fast-talking informant, in this popular action crime series. The show was widely loved by audiences and helped boost Kiser’s acting career in the 1990s.
Walker, Texas Ranger contributed to his wealth by providing steady work in television. Kiser’s participation in the show ensured continued financial growth through syndication and reruns.
Terry Kiser Movies
Terry Kiser film career includes roles in over 50 movies. Some of his most notable works include:
- Mannequin Two: On the Move (1991)
- Tammy and the T-Rex (1994)
- Pet Shop (1994)
- Loving Deadly (1994)
These films contributed to his box office earnings and provided steady residual payments through DVD sales, streaming, and licensing deals.
Terry Kiser TV Shows
Terry Kiser also had a strong presence on television. Some of his most popular shows include:
- Maude (1978)
- WKRP in Cincinnati (1979)
- The Golden Girls (1986)
- Murder, She Wrote (1988)
- The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (1993)
His TV roles not only helped build his fame but also generated residual income through syndication and reruns. These appearances were key in maintaining a steady stream of income throughout his career.
Famed Roles and Box Office Earnings
Terry Kiser’s most famous role as Bernie Lomax in Weekend at Bernie’s helped him secure a strong financial position. While box office earnings from these films weren’t sky-high, they still provided him with a solid income from the film’s long-lasting appeal.
In addition to the Weekend at Bernie’s franchise, Kiser’s other roles in cult films and TV shows contributed to his growing financial success. His work helped him secure a steady flow of residual income over time.
Enduring Legacy and Residual Income
Kiser’s roles in films and television continue to provide him with residual income years after the initial release. Thanks to royalties, streaming, and DVD sales, his legacy ensures that his financial status remains strong.
By choosing memorable roles and maintaining a steady career, Kiser has built an income stream that will continue to support him well into his retirement.
Financial Lessons from Terry Kiser’s Film Ventures
Terry Kiser’s financial wisdom offers important lessons for actors and aspiring stars. His career demonstrates the value of choosing roles with enduring appeal.
It also highlights the importance of diversifying income sources, from acting salaries to residual payments, endorsement deals, and investments in real estate and stocks.
Kiser’s ability to maintain financial security even after stepping away from the spotlight shows that careful financial planning can lead to lasting wealth in Hollywood.
Terry Kiser Social Media Presence
Though not as active as some younger actors, Terry Kiser maintains a social media presence where fans can engage with him. His occasional posts help keep his brand alive and add to his endorsement deals.
Social media has become a vital part of maintaining fame and expanding one’s income in today’s entertainment industry.
Conclusion: Reflecting on Terry Kiser Financial Journey in Hollywood
Terry Kiser net worth of $16 million is a testament to his successful career and savvy financial decisions. From his memorable roles to his residual income and smart investments, Kiser’s financial journey has been an impressive one.
His story shows that it’s not just about acting salaries but also about the long-term income sources that can lead to financial security. He has proven that with the right career choices, financial wisdom, and a bit of luck, an actor can achieve financial success and live comfortably.
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FAQ‘s
What is Terry Kiser net worth?
Terry Kiser net worth is estimated to be around $16 million.
How did Weekend at Bernie’s impact his earnings?
The success of Weekend at Bernie’s brought Kiser lasting residual income through royalties, syndication, and streaming.
What are residual earnings, and how do they affect his income?
Residual earnings are payments that continue after the original release of a movie or TV show. They include DVD sales, streaming, and reruns.
Does Terry Kiser have income sources besides acting?
Yes, Kiser has earned from real estate investments, endorsement deals, and promotional appearances.
Why is detailed salary information not public?
Salaries and contracts in Hollywood are often private and can vary greatly depending on the actor’s role, popularity, and the specific film or TV show.
How do box office earnings contribute to an actor’s wealth?
Box office earnings contribute to an actor’s income through upfront payments and residuals from royalties and streaming.
