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

Richard Kiel was an American actor renowned for his towering height and his unforgettable portrayal of the steel-toothed villain “Jaws” in two films of the James Bond series. His unique screen presence and decades-long career left a lasting mark on Hollywood.

Born on September 13, 1939, Richard Kiel’s personal life included a long marriage to his wife Diane Rogers. At the time of his death, his estimated net worth remains a subject of some debate among sources.

Quick Facts

From Everyday Jobs to International Spotlight

The journey of Richard Kiel was far from conventional. Born in Detroit, Michigan — where he came into the world on September 13, 1939 — Kiel’s exceptional height was due to a hormonal condition, a trait that would later define much of his acting career. 

When he was nine years old, his family relocated to the Los Angeles area, and Kiel eventually graduated from Baldwin Park High School.

Before fame found him, Kiel worked a variety of humble, often physically demanding jobs — including selling vacuum cleaners door-to-door, working as a cemetery plot salesman, and even teaching mathematics at night school. 

His entry into acting began in the late 1950s, with small television roles that gradually built up. Over time, his distinctive stature opened doors to character roles otherwise unavailable to many.

Defining moments in Richard Kiel’s journey include:

• Landing one of his first on-screen roles in television in the early 1960s.

• Being cast as “Jaws” in The Spy Who Loved Me (1977), a role that transformed him from character actor to global icon.

• His return as Jaws in Moonraker (1979), cementing the character’s place in cinematic villain lore.

• Later roles like Happy Gilmore (1996), which showed his versatility beyond the “monster” or “henchman” stereotype. 

The Core Pillars of Richard Kiel’s Wealth Include:

Given conflicting reports, some sources estimate his final net worth as modest (around US$500,000 – US$1 million) . Others — less reliably — claim higher figures, though such claims lack corroboration from mainstream financial trackers.

Richard Kiel Personal Life: Relationships and Family

Although his on-screen persona as Jaws was intimidating, off-screen Richard Kiel was described by colleagues and loved ones as a gentle, good-humored man. 

He married twice. His first marriage to Faye Daniels lasted from 1960 until their divorce in 1973. A year later, he married Diane Rogers — a partnership that endured until his death. Together, they had four children. 

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

• He and Diane Rogers remained married for decades, indicating a long-term, stable relationship. 

• He had four children and, by many accounts, cherished family life.

• Despite a tough exterior in films, Kiel was known to be gentle and kind, often amused by fans’ fascination with his height.

Beyond Acting: Lifestyle, Interests & Character

Beyond the spotlight, Richard Kiel’s life reflected more than just stardom.

• He embraced writing: co-authoring a biography and publishing his own memoir. 

• He maintained a sense of humor and humility about his imposing height, often joking about everyday challenges that came with being over 7 feet tall. 

• His willingness to accept roles of distinctly different genres — from horror/B-movies to family films — shows a versatile mindset and a commitment to his craft rather than typecasting.

Net Worth Breakdown & Analysis

Because sources vary, the valuation of Richard Kiel’s wealth remains ambiguous. Below is a breakdown based on the more widely cited estimates:

Given these numbers, the more conservative — and widely accepted — ballpark for Richard Kiel net worth at his death remains closer to US$500,000 to US$1 million.

Public Image, Legacy & Influence

Richard Kiel occupies a unique place in cinematic history.

• His portrayal of “Jaws” transformed a physically distinctive actor into a legendary villain — one of the most recognizable antagonists in film. By wielding his height, deep voice, and memorable metal-teeth, Kiel helped redefine what a movie villain could be. 

• His career also shows longevity and adaptability: from B-movies and TV appearances in the 1960s to mainstream films and even animation voice work decades later.

• For many fans — especially of the James Bond saga — Kiel’s “Jaws” remains a benchmark for larger-than-life villains: physically intimidating, yet delivered with a subtle undercurrent of pathos and occasional humor. 

• Off screen, Kiel’s life — from ordinary jobs to global fame — resonates as a story of persistence, self-acceptance, and embracing uniqueness rather than hiding it.

Reflections on a Larger-Than-Life Career

Richard Kiel’s journey — from selling vacuum cleaners to becoming one of cinema’s towering icons — is a testament to resilience, distinctiveness, and character. His birthdate of September 13, 1939, and his birthday on September 13 mark the beginning of a life that challenged conventional expectations and embraced difference.

Though reported estimates of his net worth at death vary, what endures is the legacy of his roles, his ability to turn physical singularity into cinematic strength, and a personal life rooted in long-term love and family. His story serves as a reminder that fame and fortune — while fleeting — pale in comparison to the enduring impact one can have through authenticity and dedication.