Robert Hooks Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday

Robert Hooks is an acclaimed American actor, producer, and cultural activist known for his pioneering work in theatre, film, and television and for co-founding one of the most influential Black theatre institutions in the U.S.

Introduction

Robert Hooks is a celebrated American actor, producer, and activist whose career has spanned decades on Broadway, in film, and in television. Born Bobby Dean Hooks on April 18, 1937 in Washington, D.C., he became a trailblazer in the entertainment world and a champion for Black artists and institutions. With an estimated net worth of approximately $3 million, Hooks’s influence extends far beyond acting — into theatre leadership, arts advocacy, and cultural institution building. He is married to Lorrie Gay Marlow, reflecting a rich personal life alongside his storied professional journey. 

Quick Facts

(“Estimated Net Worth” based on financial site industry estimate; no major business outlet reports available.)

A Journey Shaped by Stage and Vision

Hooks’s story begins in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington, D.C., where he was born the youngest of five children. From early exposure to community theatre as a youth, he gravitated toward a life in performance. His formative experiences in school and regional theatre planted the seeds for a career that would intersect with some of the most significant movements in American arts and culture. 

Driven by a passion for representation and opportunity, Hooks moved to New York and made his Broadway debut replacing Louis Gossett Jr. in A Raisin in the Sun. Over the years, he took on roles ranging from classic dramatic works to groundbreaking contemporary pieces, carving out a reputation for range and depth. His early success on stage segued into television and film, where he became one of the first Black actors to hold significant roles in mainstream productions. 

Defining moments in Robert Hooks’s journey include:

• Originating the role of Clay in Dutchman on Broadway. 

• Co-founding the Negro Ensemble Company, a cornerstone institution for Black theatre. 

• Establishing two other influential theatre organizations: the D.C. Black Repertory Company and New York’s Group Theatre Workshop. 

The Core Pillars of Robert Hooks’s Wealth

While Hook’s financial profile is modest relative to corporate executives or global entertainers, his wealth is grounded in longstanding work across multiple domains of entertainment:

• Film and Television Roles – Extensive appearances as an actor on TV dramas and feature films. 

• Theatre Production and Leadership – Founding and managing theatre companies that contribute to cultural capital. 

• Creative Ventures & Credits – From Broadway to regional productions and screen appearances.

Sources for Net Worth Figures:

• Industry estimate websites suggest his net worth around $3 million based on career longevity and credit count.

Relationships & Family Life

Robert Hooks’s personal life reflects a rich tapestry of family and companionship. He is married to Lorrie Gay Marlow, an actress, author, and artist, in a union that was publicly noted in the press. Prior to this marriage, he was married to Yvonne Hickman and later Rosie Lee Hooks. He is also known as the father of Kevin Hooks, a noted actor and director. 

Key insights into Robert Hooks’s relationships and personal life:

• Lifelong partnerships with women also rooted in the arts. 

• A blended family with children who have followed creative paths.

• Supportive personal network sustaining his work in advocacy and community arts.

Lifestyle, Assets & Interests

Beyond his career, Hooks’s lifestyle has been defined by theatre culture, mentorship, and advocacy, rather than ostentatious public displays of wealth. His interests extend to:

• Cultural Preservation — Active involvement in archiving his papers and works at Emory University.

• Theatre Outreach — Creating opportunities for young actors and writers. 

• Artistic Collaboration — Longstanding collaborations across theatre and film circles.

Net Worth Breakdown & Analysis

Values are approximate and based on publicly available entertainment industry estimates; no detailed breakdown exists from major financial outlets. 

Public Image, Legacy & Influence

Robert Hooks’s legacy is deeply rooted in cultural impact rather than commercial fortune. His work co-founding the Negro Ensemble Company helped launch and shape careers of Black artists across the United States. He is widely respected in theatre circles for his advocacy, mentorship, and as a voice for inclusion. 

Peers and critics alike recognize Hooks not just for his performances, but for institutional leadership that expanded the possibilities for Black narratives on stage and screen. His influence extends into educational archives and cultural history collections, ensuring that his contributions are preserved for future generations. 

Conclusion

From his birth on April 18, 1937, to his enduring presence in American arts, Robert Hooks’s life tells a story of dedication, talent, and cultural stewardship. With an estimated net worth of around $3 million, a supportive family life with Lorrie Gay Marlow, and a storied career in performance and activism, Hooks’s legacy embodies both personal achievement and broader social impact. His journey is a testament to the power of the arts to shape community, opportunity, and cultural narrative.