James Woods, an acclaimed actor known for his intense performances and controversial public persona, has had a multifaceted career spanning decades. Born on April 18, 1947, in Vernal, Utah, Woods is now 77 years old. With a net worth of $8 million, his career has been marked by notable achievements in film, television, and voice acting, as well as a series of personal and professional challenges.
Early Life and Education
Raised in a Catholic household in Warwick, Rhode Island, Woods grew up alongside an older brother. His father, an army intelligence officer, passed away in 1960 when Woods was just a teenager. Despite this early loss, Woods excelled academically and graduated from high school with aspirations of becoming an eye surgeon. He pursued studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he discovered a passion for acting through a student theatre group. His growing love for the craft led him to abandon his academic pursuits just one semester short of graduation to pursue a career in acting.
Theatrical Beginnings and Transition to Film
James Woods’ acting career began in theater, performing in numerous off-Broadway productions before making his Broadway debut in 1970 with Borstal Boy. Over the next few years, he showcased his talent in productions like The Trial of the Catonsville Nine, Moonchildren, and Finishing Touches. His transition to film came in 1972 with The Visitors, followed by a supporting role in The Way We Were (1973).
His breakout role came with the miniseries Holocaust (1978), where he starred alongside Meryl Streep. The critical success of The Onion Field (1979) cemented his reputation, earning him widespread acclaim and industry recognition.
Career Highlights in Film and Television
Woods’ career in the 1980s and 1990s was defined by memorable roles in critically acclaimed films. In 1984, he starred in Sergio Leone’s epic Once Upon a Time in America, receiving a 15-minute standing ovation at its Cannes premiere. His role in Salvador (1986) earned him an Academy Award nomination, while his performances in Casino (1995) and Nixon (1995) further solidified his place in Hollywood.
He gained a new audience with his portrayal of Hades in Disney’s Hercules (1997), a role he reprised in spin-offs and the Kingdom Hearts video game series. On television, Woods earned two Primetime Emmy Awards for Promise (1987) and My Name is Bill W. (1989). Later, he starred in the legal drama Shark (2006-2008).
Voice Acting and Later Roles
Woods’ voice acting talents have been a significant aspect of his career. His iconic performance as Hades was followed by various voice roles in animated films, TV shows, and video games. He continued acting in films like The Virgin Suicides (1999) and Too Big to Fail (2011), as well as the TV miniseries Coma (2012).
Personal Life and Relationships
James Woods’ personal life has been marked by tumultuous relationships. His first marriage to Kathryn Morrison-Pahoa ended in divorce after three years. His second marriage to Sarah Owens lasted just four months. Woods also dated Ashley Madison, the daughter of a golfing buddy, in a controversial relationship that ended in 2013.
Political Views and Public Persona
Originally a Democrat, Woods became an Independent after Bill Clinton’s impeachment and later aligned with the Republican Party. A vocal supporter of Donald Trump, Woods’ outspoken political views have often sparked controversy. His talent agency dropped him in 2018, a move Woods attributed to his conservative stance. Known for his provocative social media presence, he has over two million followers on Twitter, where he shares his perspectives on politics and current events.
Legal and Allegations
In the late 1980s, Woods sued actress Sean Young for alleged stalking, a case settled out of court with Young receiving $227,000 in legal fees. In 2017, actress Amber Tamblyn accused Woods of inappropriate behavior when she was 16, allegations he denied.
Real Estate Ventures
James Woods has invested in multiple properties over the years. In 2014, he purchased a home in the Hollywood Hills for $2.2 million, later listing it for $2.55 million in 2018. He also acquired properties in Beverly Hills, selling one in 2018 for $2.35 million. His current primary residence is in Pacific Palisades, although it suffered severe damage in a 2025 fire. Woods also owns several properties in Rhode Island, including a lakefront home he listed for $1.4 million in 2018.
Legacy and Impact
Despite controversies, James Woods remains a celebrated actor whose contributions to film and television have left an indelible mark on the industry. With two Emmy Awards, numerous critically acclaimed roles, and a lasting impact on both live-action and animated projects, his career is a testament to his talent and versatility.