Michael Gross Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday Facts

Michael Gross Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday
Michael Gross is an American actor best known for his iconic roles as TV dad Steven Keaton and survivalist Burt Gummer.

Michael Edward Gross stands as one of America’s enduring screen presences, bridging sitcom fame and genre cinema with an easy confidence few performers sustain. Best known for portraying the thoughtful patriarch Steven Keaton on the hit NBC series Family Ties and the survival-savvy Burt Gummer in the Tremors franchise, Gross built a long and varied career spanning decades. Born on June 21, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, Gross has combined craft, consistency, and character work to secure a stable presence in film and television. Michael Gross’s estimated net worth is around $6 million, with a rich tapestry of roles, personal pursuits, and creative interests underpinning that figure. 

Quick Facts

How a Chicago Native Became a Familiar Face

Michael Gross’s ascent isn’t the result of a single meteoric moment but rather of steady artistic evolution. Born in Chicago, Gross pursued studies in drama, earning a BA from the University of Illinois at Chicago before completing his Master of Fine Arts at Yale University — an early signal of his dedication to his craft. 

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, he forged a path in theater and television, eventually landing the role that would define him for many fans: the warm-hearted and thoughtful father Steven Keaton on Family Ties — a performance that won audiences’ affection for seven seasons.

After Family Ties, Gross embraced roles with surprising range. His portrayal of survivalist Burt Gummer in the Tremors franchise — a character he played in all sequels and adaptations — blended action and dry humor in a way that expanded his appeal beyond sitcom audiences.

Defining moments in Michael Gross’s journey include:

• Earning an MFA from Yale, cementing his classical training.

• Breakthrough with Family Ties, becoming a recognizable network TV figure. 

• Long-running role as Burt Gummer across multiple films and a TV adaptation. 

The Core Pillars of Michael Gross’s Wealth

Michael Gross’s net worth centers on a sustained career in acting, writing, and creative projects that spanned film, TV, and stage.

• Television earnings: Income from starring and guest roles, especially on Family Ties and numerous guest appearances over decades.

• Film roles: Long-term participation in the Tremors franchise and varied film work. 

• Recurring roles and voice work: Credits on series including ER, How I Met Your Mother, and animated projects.

Relationships & Personal Life

Michael Gross has long balanced his professional life with a stable personal foundation. He has been married to casting director Elza Bergeron since June 2, 1984, creating a partnership anchored in the entertainment world.

Gross is also a stepfather to his wife’s two children, embracing family life alongside a rigorous acting schedule. Beyond acting, he is known for passionate interests outside the spotlight, including railway history and collecting — pursuits that reveal a deeply curious and engaged spirit.

Key insights into Michael Gross’s relationships and personal life:

• Married to Elza Bergeron since the mid-1980s.

• Stepfather to his wife’s two children.

• Avid rail enthusiast with extensive collections and advocacy roles.

Lifestyle, Assets & Interests

Beyond his career, Michael Gross lives a life shaped by his passions:

• Railway history: Gross is a well-known railfan, historian, and model railway enthusiast.

• Creative pursuits: He actively engages with model railroading communities and speaks publicly on the subject.

• Media appearances: Even outside of major roles, Gross frequently appears at conventions and industry events, maintaining visibility. 

Net Worth Breakdown & Analysis

Michael Gross’s financial profile reflects a lengthy career rather than blockbuster earnings from a single franchise.

Gross has steadily built his financial standing through consistent work and roles that have kept him active and relevant across generations.

Public Image, Legacy & Influence

Michael Gross’s public image is multifaceted: he is both a familiar father figure from one of the ’80s’ most beloved sitcoms and a cult favorite within genre cinema. His influence extends from TV nostalgia circuits to horror and sci-fi fan communities, underlined by decades of performances that balance gravitas and humor.

Critics and fans alike respect Gross for his craft, adaptability, and enduring connection with audiences — attributes that have shaped a legacy beyond mere box-office totals. 

Conclusion

Michael Gross’s story is one of steady dedication: from his birth on June 21, 1947, in Chicago to his varied roles on screen that resonate with fans around the world. With a net worth built through longevity, commitment, and creative diversity, and a personal life grounded by his marriage to Elza Bergeron, Gross exemplifies the blend of stability and artistic drive that defines many successful performers. His birthday, celebrated annually on June 21, marks not just another year but a life lived in the craft of storytelling and connection with audiences across generations.