Charles Dierkop, a talented character actor, became widely recognized for his roles in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting.
But how much did he earn throughout his long-running career? Understanding Charles Dierkop net worth gives insight into how Hollywood compensated character actors of his time.
From his early days in television to his standout performances in major films, Dierkop built a career spanning decades. This article breaks down his earnings, main sources of wealth, and whether he faced financial struggles along the way.
Charles Dierkop Quick Facts
FACT | DETAIL |
---|---|
Real Name | Charles Richard Dierkop |
Popular Name | Charles Dierkop |
Birth Date | September 11, 1936 |
Age | <78 (Died:February 25, 2024) |
Birthplace | La Crosse, Wisconsin, USA |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | N/A |
Education | Aquinas High School |
Marital Status | Divorced |
Spouse | Joan F. Addis (m. 1958–1974) |
Children | 2 (Lynn and one son) |
Dating | N/A |
Siblings | N/A |
Parents | Raised by his aunt and uncle |
Height | 1.73 meters |
Net Worth | $1.5 million |
Source of Wealth | Acting |
What is the Net Worth of Charles Dierkop in 2025?
Charles Dierkop’s net worth was estimated at $1.5 million at the time of his passing. While this may seem modest compared to Hollywood A-listers, it reflects a solid career as a supporting actor in legendary films.
Unlike lead actors, character actors like Dierkop often had fewer high-paying opportunities but remained active in the industry for decades.
Compared to stars he worked with, his net worth was lower than Paul Newman and Robert Redford but still respectable among character actors. His earnings came mainly from television roles, film appearances, and small guest roles later in life.
People & Companies Related to Charles Dierkop
- Paul Newman
- Robert Redford
- George Roy Hill
- Lee Paul
- R.E.M.
- Hollywood Studios
- Actors Studio
- U.S. Marine Corps
- La Crosse Tribune
- Philadelphia Film Community
Looking for more insights into the highest-paid celebrities? Check out this exclusive list of Hollywood’s wealthiest stars.
Charles Dierkop Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Did He Earn from His Acting Career?
Charles Dierkop’s acting career spanned from 1961 to 2016, giving him over five decades in the industry.
His most famous roles in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting, and Police Woman secured him a steady stream of work.
As a character actor, he didn’t earn as much as top-billed stars but had a stable income. Supporting actors in classic films often earned one-time payouts rather than ongoing royalties, meaning his wealth came from consistent work rather than massive single paychecks.
What Were His Main Sources of Income?
Dierkop primarily earned from acting in television and films. His role in Police Woman (1974-1978) provided a steady salary, making it one of his most financially rewarding gigs.
Unlike many actors, he did not venture into directing or producing.
Other sources of income included:
- Film earnings from Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting
- Guest appearances in various TV series
- A cameo in R.E.M.’s music video Man on the Moon**
His membership in the Actors Studio likely helped him gain consistent work, though it did not directly contribute to his wealth.
Did He Face Any Financial Struggles?
Despite a long career, Dierkop’s financial standing remained modest. He was not among the highest-paid Hollywood stars, and supporting actors often faced inconsistent income.
His early life suggests financial difficulties—he dropped out of high school and joined the U.S. Marine Corps, likely for stability. However, with steady work in the ’60s and ’70s, he maintained a comfortable living.
Unlike some actors, he did not have publicized financial struggles, lawsuits, or bankruptcy filings.
What Assets and Investments Did He Own?
There is no public record of Dierkop’s real estate investments or business ventures. However, given his long career, he likely had personal savings and assets.
Many character actors of his time lived modestly compared to A-list celebrities. Without details on properties or investments, it’s unclear whether he accumulated significant wealth beyond his acting earnings.
How Did His Military Service Impact His Finances?
Before acting, Dierkop served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War. This likely provided him with:
- G.I. Bill benefits, which helped him afford acting school
- Discipline and structure, leading to a strong work ethic
- Connections, possibly influencing his entrance into Hollywood
While military service itself did not make him wealthy, it helped shape his career path.
What Happened to His Wealth After His Passing?
Dierkop passed away in 2024 from complications related to pneumonia and a heart attack. His wealth likely went to his two children, though no public estate records are available.
As a private individual, his financial legacy remains undisclosed, unlike high-profile actors with large estates. However, his contributions to Hollywood continue through his memorable roles and classic films.
Conclusion
Charles Dierkop’s career showcased the importance of character actors in Hollywood. While he may not have been among the richest, his work in iconic films left a lasting impact.
If you enjoyed this deep dive into his financial journey, explore more celebrity net worths on andomoney.com.