Richard Dreyfuss Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday

Richard Dreyfuss is an Oscar-winning American actor best known for his roles in Jaws, Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Goodbye Girl.

Introduction

Richard Dreyfuss (born October 29, 1947) has built a distinguished career in film and stage, earning critical acclaim and an Academy Award. His estimated net worth is around $4–5 million, reflecting a career of high-profile roles as well as financial challenges.  On the personal front, his romantic life and family history are part of his public story—he is married to Svetlana Erokhin (married March 16). In this article we’ll explore Richard Dreyfuss’s rise, wealth sources, relationships, lifestyle, and lasting legacy.

Quick Facts

From Local Ambition to Global Success

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Richard Dreyfuss grew up in a Jewish family and relocated to California, where his early fascination with theatre took root.  He briefly studied drama at San Fernando Valley State College before quickly moving into acting roles. His early work included television parts and small film appearances.

The story of his breakout is often tied to his performance in American Graffiti (1973), followed by a starring turn in The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz (1974).  Then came the landmark role in Jaws (1975), directed by Steven Spielberg, which made Dreyfuss a household name.  His portrayal of Elliot Garfield in The Goodbye Girl (1977) earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor — at the time making him the youngest male recipient of the award. 

Defining moments in Richard Dreyfuss’s journey include:

• Landing the role of Curt Henderson in American Graffiti, showcasing his ability to play relatable young men with emotional depth.

• Winning the Oscar for The Goodbye Girl, cementing his status as a leading man.

• Taking on the intense, quirky role of Roy Neary in Close Encounters of the Third Kind, further broadening his range.

• Matching his cinematic success with personal and professional turbulence—including financial ups and downs and public controversies. 

Through these milestones, Dreyfuss moved from local ambition to global recognition, while navigating the unique pressures that come with Hollywood stardom.

The Core Pillars of Richard Dreyfuss’s Wealth Include:

• Film & Television Salaries: His earnings from major roles in films like Jaws, The Goodbye Girl, Stand by Me, and Mr. Holland’s Opus form the backbone of his income.

• Royalties & Residuals: Given his work in iconic titles, residuals from syndication and home-video sales likely contribute ongoing revenue. 

• Public Speaking & Appearances: Later in his career, Dreyfuss also engaged in lectures and appearances, adding to his income stream.

While not structured as a table due to limited public data on breakdowns, these pillars illustrate the major sources of his wealth.

Relationships & Family Life

Richard Dreyfuss’s personal life has seen multiple chapters, each with its own narrative.

His marriages include three public unions: first to Jeramie Rain (1983–1992) with whom he has three children; then to Janelle Lacey (1999–2005); and currently to Svetlana Erokhin, whom he wed in March 2006. 

Key insights into Richard Dreyfuss’s relationships and personal life:

• From his first marriage with Jeramie Rain emerged three children: Emily, Benjamin and Harry. 

• His union with Janelle Lacey spanned about six years before divorce in 2005. 

• His marriage to Svetlana Erokhin reflects a quieter, enduring chapter; the couple has kept much of their life out of tabloid limelight. 

• Throughout his long career, Dreyfuss has spoken publicly about the value of connection, family and the challenges of balancing private life with fame.

Lifestyle, Assets & Interests

Beyond his on-screen presence, Richard Dreyfuss leads a lifestyle that reflects both passion and purpose, including:

• A residence in Los Angeles that has been referenced in publications as one of his significant assets. 

• A long-standing interest in theatre and film history: Dreyfuss has produced and spoken about lesser-known works, and cared deeply about legacy.

• Public advocacy: he has engaged in educational and cultural causes, reflecting an interest in the broader impact of media and storytelling.

• His hobbies and off-screen interests — while not extensively detailed in public records — suggest a man still driven by curiosity, creative energy and engagement with the craft of acting.

Net Worth Breakdown & Analysis

The figure of Richard Dreyfuss’s net worth has been the subject of various estimates — many landing around the $4–5 million mark. Several factors influence this modest figure relative to some of his contemporaries: high production costs, personal financial challenges, and a steady but not extravagantly commercial career track.

In analyzing these numbers, it’s clear that while Dreyfuss achieved remarkable artistic success and industry recognition, his financial footprint is relatively modest in comparison to blockbuster-era stars. Legacy films and critical acclaim don’t always translate to multi-hundred-million dollar portfolios.

Public Image, Legacy & Influence

What stands out in Richard Dreyfuss’s public image is a blend of earnest talent and candid humanity. Industry colleagues often point to his commitment to character, his warmth toward younger actors, and his willingness to speak openly about the challenges of fame. For instance, actor Alicia Witt recalled how Dreyfuss treated junior cast members with respect during the filming of Mr. Holland’s Opus. 

His legacy is inextricably tied to some of the most iconic films of the 1970s and beyond: from his role in Jaws to his Oscar-winning turn in The Goodbye Girl and beyond. These films continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring his influence endures. On the public relations front, he has had controversial moments too — such as public criticisms of the Broadway play The Shark Is Broken which dramatized on-set tensions he disputes. 

Analytically, Dreyfuss occupies a space of respected craftsmanship rather than mega-brand celebrity. His career path demonstrates that sustained relevance in an evolving entertainment landscape comes from adaptability, conviction, and a willingness to engage with diverse work. His personal life and public persona reflect a balance—he is at once a serious actor, a family man, and a figure who acknowledges his flaws and triumphs.

Conclusion

Richard Dreyfuss’s story is one of talent, perseverance and nuanced achievement. From his birthdate on October 29, 1947 in Brooklyn to his breakthrough roles and his current life, he has woven a career that speaks to both the heights of mainstream success and the depth of artistic integrity. His estimated net worth of around $5 million underscores that a long and celebrated career does not always equate to massive fortunes—but can instead reflect legacy, influence, and personal satisfaction. His birthday remains a day of note for fans and colleagues alike, and his relationships—from his marriage to Svetlana Erokhin to his earlier partnerships—highlight a life rich in connection and story. Above all, Richard Dreyfuss’s legacy reminds us that success in the entertainment world is not solely measured in box-office receipts, but in the lasting impact of roles, the respect of peers, and the authenticity of one’s journey.