Hey there, I’m AndoMoney! Today, we’re diving into the life and wealth of Dave Madden, the unforgettable talent behind Reuben Kincaid from The Partridge Family. Known for his sharp wit and lasting impact on TV, Madden didn’t just charm viewers—he built a noteworthy career.
We’ll break down what Dave Madden net worth looked like at his career height and explore what contributed to his financial success.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | David Joseph Madden |
| Popular Name | Dave Madden |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | December 17, 1931 |
| Age | 82 (Died: January 16, 2014) |
| Parents | Verna Burleigh, Roger Madden |
| Siblings | Sister Mary Roger, Richard, Jack |
| Birthplace | Sarnia, Ontario, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian-American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | Otter Creek High School, University of Miami |
| Marital Status | Married twice |
| Spouse | Sandra Madden (m. 1998–2014), Nena Arnold (m. 1975–1985) |
| Children | Selena (adopted), Peter Michael |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | N/A |
| Source of Wealth | Acting |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) |
What is the Net Worth of Dave Madden in 2024?
While the exact net worth of Dave Madden at his peak isn’t widely known, he earned a comfortable living through his iconic roles on TV. Madden’s income came primarily from his work in hit sitcoms like The Partridge Family, where his portrayal of Reuben Kincaid earned him fame and long-term fans.
Unlike some of the top names in entertainment, Madden’s financial success was modest compared to the biggest Hollywood stars. However, he still earned his place among prominent TV actors of the 1970s and 1980s.
Here’s how Madden’s career earnings might compare with other personalities from his era:
- Shirley Jones
- Danny Bonaduce
- Jonathan Winters
- Alan Young
- Pat Morita
- Ron Howard
- Arte Johnson
- Gary Owens
- James Karen
- Bernard Slade
Looking for a rundown of the richest actors? We’ve got a full list of Hollywood’s biggest earners waiting for you.
Dave Madden Salary and Finance Overview
Career Beginnings and Early Influences
Dave Madden’s journey into entertainment didn’t start in Hollywood—it started in small-town Michigan, where he spent his youth. Early life struggles shaped Madden’s resilience, a quality he brought into his later work.
His love for performing blossomed while he was still a teenager, especially after recovering from a serious bicycle accident that immobilized him for months. While recuperating, he took an interest in magic, which he cleverly integrated into his early comedy routines.
After high school, Madden’s career began in earnest when he joined the United States Air Force. There, he was assigned to Special Services and stationed in Libya, performing in camp shows that introduced him to a wider audience.
His natural knack for humor and performance even earned him attention from Frank Sinatra, leading to his debut on The Ed Sullivan Show—a significant step toward his later success.
Rise to Fame with Iconic Role in The Partridge Family
Dave Madden’s breakthrough came with his unforgettable role as Reuben Kincaid on The Partridge Family. The role of Kincaid, the band’s manager, catapulted him to fame in the early 1970s and remains his most iconic role to date.
It wasn’t just a paycheck; it was a launchpad for Madden’s legacy. His work on The Partridge Family not only brought him financial stability but solidified his reputation as a comedic force in the television world.
His chemistry with the cast, especially with Danny Bonaduce, brought a memorable warmth to the show. It’s no surprise that this role remains the most significant part of Madden’s career.
Notable Television Roles and Acting Achievements
Aside from The Partridge Family, Madden appeared on several popular shows that helped keep his finances strong. One of his significant roles was Earl Hicks on Alice, where he played a recurring character that brought more income and visibility.
Madden’s appearances in well-known shows like Bewitched, Happy Days, The Love Boat, Barney Miller, and Fantasy Island also contributed to his earnings over the years.
These guest roles not only brought Madden extra revenue but also reinforced his position in the entertainment industry.
Voice Acting and Long-Term Projects
In addition to his on-screen work, Dave Madden had a successful voice acting career, especially through his contributions to Adventures in Odyssey, a popular radio drama.
Starting in the late 1980s, Madden voiced the character Bernard Walton until 2008, adding another stream of income to his career.
This project provided Madden with a steady, long-term role that kept him connected with fans even years after his prime TV roles ended.
Contributions to Comedy and Collaborations
Before his success in mainstream TV, Madden was a regular on Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, where he first made a name for himself in comedy. His performance style, marked by a humorous, sometimes deadpan demeanor, won over audiences and earned him steady work.
During this period, Madden also developed lasting relationships with fellow comedians, including Pat Morita and Arte Johnson, who influenced his approach to comedy.
Through these connections, Madden’s comedy gained a unique blend of warmth and sarcasm, distinguishing him from others. These friendships weren’t just personal—they translated into professional opportunities, helping Madden maintain a presence in the industry even when primary roles became scarce.
Financial Influence of Additional Skills and Hobbies
While photography was largely a hobby for Dave Madden, his passion for capturing moments on set—especially during his time on The Partridge Family—adds a personal touch to his legacy.
Although this didn’t directly contribute to his wealth, it showcased another layer of his creativity. Madden’s autobiography, Reuben on Wry: The Memoirs of Dave Madden, also provided fans with insights into his life and may have generated modest sales income, further diversifying his sources of earnings.
Personal Life and Key Relationships
Dave Madden’s personal life was intertwined with his career, often impacting his finances and stability. His marriages, first to Nena Arnold and later to Sandra Martin, brought stability during different stages of his life.
Additionally, his close relationships with actors like Jonathan Winters and Alan Young were essential in creating lasting friendships that enriched his professional journey.
His role as a mentor to Danny Bonaduce, whom he took into his home during challenging times, demonstrated his supportive nature and likely contributed to Madden’s personal growth, impacting his career’s direction.
FAQs About Dave Madden
What was his most iconic role?
Dave Madden’s most iconic role was Reuben Kincaid on The Partridge Family, where he played the group’s quirky manager.
How did he start his acting career?
He began performing during his military service in Libya, where he entertained troops, eventually landing a spot on The Ed Sullivan Show.
Did Dave Madden have a family?
Yes, Madden was married twice and had two children: an adopted daughter, Selena, and a son, Peter Michael.
Was he involved in other TV shows besides The Partridge Family?
Yes, he appeared in many shows, including Alice, Bewitched, Happy Days, and Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In.
How did his role in Alice impact his career?
His recurring role on Alice added to his visibility and contributed to his income.
Did Dave Madden do voice acting?
Yes, Madden voiced characters in Adventures in Odyssey, a long-running radio drama, adding to his career diversity.
Who were some of his famous friends?
Madden was friends with actors like Jonathan Winters, Alan Young, and Pat Morita.
Was Dave Madden a photographer?
Yes, Madden enjoyed photography, often capturing moments from The Partridge Family set, though it was mainly a hobby.
Did he write an autobiography?
Yes, Madden authored Reuben on Wry: The Memoirs of Dave Madden, giving fans a closer look at his life.
How did Dave Madden influence younger actors?
Madden mentored Danny Bonaduce, supporting him during difficult times, which greatly impacted Bonaduce’s life.
Conclusion
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