Danny DeVito is a household name, known for his unforgettable roles in classics like Taxi and Matilda. Beyond his on-screen success, his career has brought him significant financial rewards. As of now, Danny DeVito’s net worth is estimated to be around $80 million.
This wealth comes not only from acting but also from his work as a producer and director, as well as smart business ventures. His journey is a testament to how talent, versatility, and persistence can lead to remarkable achievements in both fame and fortune.
Danny DeVito’s Early Life and Career Beginnings
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Danny DeVito was born on November 17, 1944, in Neptune Township, New Jersey, and raised in a working-class Italian-American family. His father, Daniel Sr., ran a small business, while his mother, Julia, managed their household. Growing up in a close-knit family, DeVito’s early years were shaped by his lively personality and a natural flair for storytelling, which would later serve him well in his acting career.
DeVito attended the Oratory Preparatory School in Summit, New Jersey, where his interest in the arts began to take root. Although he initially considered pursuing a career as a hairdresser—having worked at his sister’s beauty salon—his passion for performing ultimately drew him toward acting.
After high school, DeVito enrolled at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, where he honed his craft and developed the skills that would set him apart in the entertainment industry.
His professional journey began in theater, where he performed in small productions and honed his comedic timing and dramatic abilities. One of his first significant breaks came when he auditioned for a role in an off-Broadway play, which opened the door to more prominent opportunities. During this time, DeVito formed connections with fellow aspiring actors and directors, laying the groundwork for his future success.
DeVito’s early years were marked by perseverance, as he worked tirelessly to make a name for himself in a highly competitive industry. These formative experiences shaped the actor we know today, preparing him for the breakout roles that would define his career.
Danny DeVito’s Major Career Milestones
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Danny DeVito’s career is marked by a series of significant achievements that have solidified his status as a versatile and enduring figure in the entertainment industry.
- Breakthrough with “Taxi” (1978–1983): DeVito gained widespread recognition for his role as Louie De Palma, the acerbic dispatcher on the television series Taxi. His performance earned him both a Golden Globe and an Emmy Award, establishing him as a prominent actor in television.
- Transition to Film – “Terms of Endearment” (1983): Following his television success, DeVito transitioned to film, appearing in Terms of Endearment, a critically acclaimed movie that won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
- Box Office Success with “Romancing the Stone” (1984): DeVito’s role in the action-adventure romantic comedy Romancing the Stone, alongside Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner, showcased his comedic talent and contributed to the film’s commercial success.
- Directorial Debut – “Throw Momma from the Train” (1987): Expanding his repertoire, DeVito made his directorial debut with this dark comedy, in which he also starred, demonstrating his multifaceted talent in the industry.
- Iconic Role as The Penguin in “Batman Returns” (1992): DeVito’s portrayal of the villainous Penguin in Tim Burton’s Batman Returns was both memorable and critically acclaimed, further diversifying his acting portfolio.
- Founding Jersey Films (1991): Demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit, DeVito co-founded Jersey Films, a production company responsible for notable films such as Pulp Fiction (1994) and Erin Brockovich (2000), the latter earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture.
- “Matilda” (1996): DeVito directed, produced, and starred in the film adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Matilda, which has since become a beloved family classic.
- “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” (2006–Present): Joining the cast in its second season, DeVito’s role as Frank Reynolds revitalized the series and introduced him to a new generation of television audiences.
These milestones highlight Danny DeVito’s dynamic career and his significant contributions to both television and film over several decades.
Danny DeVito’s Estimated Net Worth
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Danny DeVito’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $80 million, reflecting his decades-long career as a successful actor, director, and producer. This substantial wealth has been built on a foundation of consistent success in the entertainment industry, from his iconic role in Taxi to his enduring presence on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
His financial standing places him among Hollywood’s most enduring and influential figures. Despite his impressive net worth, DeVito remains known for his humility and dedication to his craft, which continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Danny DeVito’s Business Ventures and Investments
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Beyond his celebrated career in acting and directing, Danny DeVito has proven himself a savvy entrepreneur with notable business ventures and investments. One of his most significant achievements in this area is the co-founding of Jersey Films in 1991, a production company responsible for critically acclaimed films like Pulp Fiction, Erin Brockovich, and Get Shorty.
These movies not only became commercial successes but also cemented DeVito’s reputation as a producer with a keen eye for compelling stories.
DeVito has also ventured into voice acting and animation production, contributing his voice and creative input to several projects. These roles highlight his versatility and his ability to diversify his contributions to entertainment, ensuring sustained relevance and profitability.
In addition to his involvement in film and television production, DeVito has made smart investments in real estate, acquiring properties in desirable locations. While details about his specific holdings are relatively private, his real estate portfolio contributes significantly to his wealth.
His entrepreneurial spirit extends to endorsements and partnerships, as DeVito has lent his personality to various campaigns and collaborations, further boosting his financial success. Together, these ventures showcase his business acumen and his ability to expand his career beyond the screen.
Danny DeVito’s Real Estate and Assets
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Danny DeVito, alongside his wife Rhea Perlman, has been involved in several notable real estate transactions over the years, reflecting both his personal and professional success.
- Beverly Hills Estate: In 1994, DeVito and Perlman purchased a 14,579-square-foot residence in Beverly Hills, California. This expansive property, situated on approximately 1.2 acres, featured amenities such as a free-standing screening room, dance studio, two swimming pools, and a wine cellar. After over two decades of ownership, they sold the estate in April 2015 for $24 million.
- Mount Washington Property: In September 2022, the couple listed their Los Angeles home in the Mount Washington neighborhood for $1.55 million. The 1,864-square-foot modern residence, built in 1995, is perched on a hillside lot and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Malibu Compound: DeVito and Perlman co-own a multi-residence compound on Broad Beach in Malibu, California. This beachfront property serves as a retreat, offering privacy and scenic ocean views.
- Former Los Feliz Home: A historic Spanish Colonial Revival estate in Los Feliz, previously owned by DeVito and Perlman, was listed for sale in April 2024 for $19.8 million. Built in 1924, the property boasts original architectural features and has been home to several notable figures over the years.
These real estate ventures highlight Danny DeVito’s investments in prime properties across Los Angeles, contributing to his substantial net worth and reflecting his status in the entertainment industry.
