Jon Voight, an iconic figure in Hollywood, boasts a remarkable career spanning decades, with a net worth estimated at $55 million. As of January 2025, the 86-year-old actor continues to be celebrated for his contributions to film and television, alongside his noteworthy personal and professional life. From his early breakthrough to his enduring legacy, here’s a comprehensive look at Jon Voight’s life and career.
Early Life and Family Background
Born on December 29, 1938, in Yonkers, New York, Jonathan Vincent Voight was raised in a devout Catholic family. His father, Elmer Voight, was a professional golfer, and Jon grew up alongside his two brothers, Barry and Chip. Barry became a volcanologist at Penn State, while Chip carved out a career as a successful singer-songwriter. Jon’s interest in acting was sparked during his high school years, where he performed in various musicals.
Voight pursued his education at The Catholic University of America, graduating in 1960 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Soon after, he moved to New York City to chase his dream of becoming an actor, beginning a journey that would see him become one of the most respected names in Hollywood.
Breakthrough in Hollywood
Voight’s acting career began with television roles in the 1960s, with appearances in shows like Gunsmoke, Naked City, The Defenders, and Twelve O’Clock High. His stage performances also earned acclaim, particularly in Broadway’s A View From the Bridge. However, it was his film debut in Fearless Frank (1967) and a minor role in Hour of the Gun (1967) that set the stage for his big break.
In 1969, Voight gained critical acclaim for his role as Joe Buck, a male prostitute, in Midnight Cowboy. The film, which remains the only X-rated movie to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, earned Voight his first Oscar nomination for Best Actor. This role not only launched his career but also established him as a versatile actor capable of tackling complex characters.
Career Highlights
The 1970s saw Voight solidify his status as a leading man with iconic roles in Deliverance (1972) and Coming Home (1978). His portrayal of a paralyzed Vietnam War veteran in Coming Home earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor, marking one of his most celebrated performances.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Voight continued to deliver memorable performances. Films like Runaway Train (1985), which earned him another Oscar nomination, and Heat (1995) showcased his ability to adapt to diverse genres. Voight also ventured into television, winning a Golden Globe for his role in the TV movie The Last of His Tribe (1992).
The 2000s marked a resurgence in Voight’s career with blockbuster roles in Mission: Impossible (1996), Pearl Harbor (2001), and Transformers (2007). He also gained acclaim for his role as Mickey Donovan in the Showtime series Ray Donovan (2013-2020), earning multiple award nominations.
Net Worth and Real Estate
Jon Voight’s net worth is estimated at $55 million as of 2025, accumulated through his extensive acting career and wise investments. In 1995, Voight purchased a sprawling 3.3-acre property in Beverly Hills for $1.3 million. By 2019, the property, featuring a nearly soccer-field-sized yard, was listed for sale at $19.75 million, reflecting his substantial wealth and penchant for luxury real estate.
Personal Life and Relationships
Jon Voight has been married twice. His first marriage to actress Lauri Peters, whom he met during a Broadway production, lasted from 1962 to 1967. In 1971, Voight married actress Marcheline Bertrand. The couple had two children, Angelina Jolie and James Haven, both of whom followed in their father’s footsteps into acting. Voight and Bertrand divorced in 1980.
Despite his high-profile relationships and numerous romances with female celebrities, Voight never remarried after his second divorce. His relationship with Angelina Jolie, though strained for years, has reportedly improved in recent times.
Political Activism and Views
Voight’s political views have evolved significantly over the years. In his youth, he was an outspoken anti-war activist and supported Democratic leaders like President John F. Kennedy. However, by 2008, Voight had shifted to a more conservative stance. He expressed strong Republican views, criticized the Democratic Party, and became a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump. Voight’s endorsement of Trump and his political commentary, such as calling Trump the best president since Abraham Lincoln, have kept him in the public eye beyond his acting career.
Legacy and Influence
Jon Voight’s contributions to the entertainment industry are unparalleled. With a career spanning over six decades, he has left an indelible mark through his performances in critically acclaimed films and beloved television shows. As a father to Angelina Jolie, Voight’s legacy extends to a new generation of Hollywood royalty.
At 86, Jon Voight continues to be a celebrated figure in the entertainment world, known for his remarkable versatility, powerful performances, and enduring influence on film and television.