Anthony Edwards, an American actor and director, has a net worth of $40 million as of 2024. His wealth primarily comes from his role as Dr. Mark Greene on the hit television series “ER,” where he appeared for eight seasons from 1994 to 2002. Edwards became the highest-paid actor on television in the late 1990s, securing a three-year, $35 million contract that paid him $530,000 per episode.
In addition to his television success, Edwards gained widespread recognition for playing Nick “Goose” Bradshaw in “Top Gun” (1986) alongside Tom Cruise. His other notable film credits include “Zodiac,” “Miracle Mile,” “Revenge of the Nerds,” and Disney’s animated film “Planes.”
Early Life and Education
Anthony Charles Edwards was born on July 19, 1962, in Santa Barbara, California. Raised in a creative and intellectual household, he was encouraged to pursue higher education before diving into acting. He received a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in England and also studied theatre at the University of Southern California before leaving at 19 years old to pursue acting full-time.
Despite his early success, Edwards has openly discussed difficult moments in his personal life. In 2017, he revealed through an essay that he had been a victim of sexual abuse as a child, an experience that motivated him to advocate for survivors and later serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors for 1in6, an organization dedicated to helping men recover from past abuse.
Career Highlights: From “Top Gun” to “ER”
1980s: Breakthrough in Film and Television
Edwards made his television debut with roles in “It Takes Two” and “Fast Times at Ridgemont High”. However, his breakthrough came in 1984 when he starred as Gilbert Lowell in “Revenge of the Nerds.” He reprised the role in “Revenge of the Nerds II: Nerds in Paradise” (1987).
In 1986, he earned international fame for playing Goose in “Top Gun”, one of the decade’s most iconic films. Despite Goose’s tragic death in the film, his role remains a fan favorite, cementing his place in pop culture history.
1990s-2000s: “ER” and Television Dominance
Edwards’ most significant role came in 1994, when he was cast as Dr. Mark Greene on NBC’s “ER”. Initially playing a mediator and authority figure, he later became the de facto lead character in later seasons. During his time on “ER,” he won numerous accolades, including:
- Golden Globe Award (Best Actor – Television Series Drama)
- Six Screen Actors Guild Awards (Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Series)
- Four Primetime Emmy Award Nominations
By 1999, as stars like George Clooney departed the show, Edwards signed a historic three-year, $35 million contract, making him the highest-paid television actor at the time.
2000s-Present: Film, Directing, and Voice Acting
After leaving “ER” in 2002, Edwards focused on film roles and directing. He starred in “Zodiac” (2007), directed by David Fincher, and made appearances in “Motherhood” (2010) and the television series “Zero Hour” (2013).
In 2013, he transitioned into voice acting, playing the lead role in Disney’s “Planes,” which grossed over $239 million worldwide.
More recently, he played a recurring role as a judge in “Law & Order True Crime” (2017) and joined Netflix’s “Designated Survivor” (2018).
Personal Life and Relationships
In 1994, Edwards married Swedish-born makeup artist Jeanine Lobell, the founder of Stila Cosmetics. They had four children together before divorcing in 2015.
Lobell later sold Stila Cosmetics to Estée Lauder in 1999, adding to the couple’s financial success.
In 2021, Edwards married actress Mare Winningham, known for her roles in “St. Elmo’s Fire” and “Turner & Hooch.”
Real Estate Investments
Edwards has invested in high-end real estate, with notable properties including:
- Dana Point, California – Purchased for $2 million in 1998 and extensively renovated. Listed for $6.5 million in 2023.
- Los Feliz, California – A property he co-owned with Jeanine Lobell.
- New York City Duplex (Carnegie Hill) – Bought in 2015 for $8.52 million, later sold at a $2 million loss in 2020.
- Fifth Avenue Apartment (New York City) – Purchased for $2.7 million in 2021, shortly before marrying Mare Winningham.
Financial Success and Salary Highlights
Throughout his career, Edwards has accumulated significant wealth from acting, directing, and investments. His earnings include:
- “ER” (1994-2002) – Earned $530,000 per episode, totaling over $35 million in three years.
- Film Royalties – From classics like “Top Gun” and “Zodiac.”
- Voice Acting – Profitable roles in animated films like “Planes”.