Richard Lawson Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday Facts

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

Richard Lawson is an American actor, producer and acting coach, recognized for roles in iconic films such as Poltergeist and for a decades-long career in TV. With a net worth widely cited around US$1 million, his story spans service in the Vietnam War, survival of a plane crash, and a personal life that stirred headlines when he married then later divorced iconic fashion designer and businesswoman Tina Knowles. Born on March 7, 1947, Richard Lawson’s birthday is celebrated on March 7 each year.

Quick Facts

From Soldier to Screen: The Unlikely Path to Stardom

Richard Lawson’s journey isn’t your typical Hollywood origin story. Born Rickey Lee Lawson in Loma Linda, California, he faced early adulthood in a turbulent America. Drafted during a time of conflict, he served as a medic in Vietnam — an experience that left a mark on his worldview and later informed his resilience and perspective as an actor.

Upon returning from service, Lawson shifted gears. His talent and determination led him from military life to the precarious world of acting. He made his screen debut with a small, uncredited role in 1971’s Dirty Harry.

His breakthrough came gradually through a string of genre films and television work. Roles in cult-classic and mainstream projects alike laid the groundwork for what would become a multi-decade career.

Defining moments in Richard Lawson’s journey include:

• Transitioning from Vietnam War medic to aspiring actor, showcasing adaptability and courage.

• Landing his first film role in Dirty Harry (1971), marking the start of his screen career.

• Gaining recognition in films like Poltergeist (1982) and Streets of Fire (1984), helping him carve a niche in both horror and action genres.

• Sustaining longevity with recurring TV roles through the ’80s and ’90s (e.g., Dynasty, All My Children) — a testament to his versatility and staying power.

The Core Pillars of Richard Lawson’s Wealth

The core pillars of Richard Lawson’s wealth include:

• Acting career — decades of film and television roles provide the foundation of his earnings.

• Entrepreneurship in education — founding Richard Lawson Studios (RLS), an acting and empowerment academy offering training and mentorship. 

• Recurring income streams from acting coaching, mentorship, and possibly residuals/royalties from past film/TV work.

These pillars underscore how Lawson diversified beyond acting, channeling experience into business and mentorship.

Relationships & Family Life

Richard Lawson’s personal life has seen significant public interest.

He was first married to actress Denise Gordy from 1978 until 1989. Together they welcomed a daughter, Bianca Lawson, who also went on to build her own acting career.

Years later, Lawson married Tina Knowles, mother of renowned singers, in April 2015 — the union drew considerable attention due to Tina’s prominence. The relationship, which blossomed after decades of friendship, ended when Tina filed for divorce in July 2023.

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

• His marriage to Denise Gordy resulted in a daughter, Bianca Lawson, continuing his creative legacy.

• His later marriage to Tina Knowles — though ending in divorce — linked him publicly to one of the most famous families in entertainment. 

• Despite public visibility during his marriage, Lawson has otherwise maintained a relatively private personal life.

Beyond the Spotlight: Lifestyle, Assets & Passions

Beyond career success, Richard Lawson leads a lifestyle that reflects both passion and purpose, including:

• Running Richard Lawson Studios, where he mentors aspiring actors — a commitment to nurturing talent and giving back to the arts community.

• Emphasizing modesty: public records and profiles show no flaunting of extravagant wealth despite decades in Hollywood — perhaps reflective of his early life challenges and military service.

• A long-standing dedication to acting craft and education — not only performing but also teaching, directing, and supporting the next generation.

Net Worth Breakdown & Analysis

How is Richard Lawson net worth assessed? Estimates vary, though the most commonly quoted figure is US$1 million.

It’s important to note that some non-verified sources have speculated higher figures (e.g., claims of US$8–10 million), but these are not backed by authoritative data and often conflict with publicly documented income and asset traces.

Legacy, Public Image & Impact

Richard Lawson stands out as a figure of resilience and versatility. From surviving the Vietnam War and a near-fatal plane crash — USAir Flight 405 crash — to building a decades-long career in film and television, his life reflects perseverance.

In entertainment circles, Lawson is respected not only for his on-screen work but also for his off-screen commitment to mentoring. Through Richard Lawson Studios, he has influenced and shaped the careers of many aspiring actors — a legacy that extends beyond his personal filmography. 

His relationships — particularly the public marriage to Tina Knowles — brought him briefly into a high-profile spotlight, but even then, Lawson maintained dignity, refraining from flashy displays. This grounded public image, combined with his roots and real-life trials, has earned him a reputation as a consummate professional and survivor.

Final Thoughts

Richard Lawson’s story is one of transformation: from medic in Vietnam to Hollywood actor, from near death in a plane crash to mentor nurturing new talent. His Richard Lawson net worth, though modest by celebrity-standards, reflects decades of steady work, resilience, and reinvention. His personal life, marked by relationships and family, adds depth to a life lived both under and outside the spotlight. Born March 7, 1947, his birthday remains a quiet anchor to a grounded, hardworking life — a testament to enduring passion, craft, and integrity.