Robert Wagner, born February 10, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan, is a celebrated Hollywood legend known for his iconic roles in Hart to Hart and The Pink Panther. Starting his acting career in the 1950s, Robert gained fame with standout performances in movies and TV shows like It Takes a Thief.
Beyond acting, he established Rona II Productions, boosting his fortune through production and royalties. With a net worth of $20 million, Robert resides in luxury homes in Bel-Air and Aspen, Colorado. Married to actress Jill St. John, Robert’s legacy spans decades of success, reflecting his talent, business acumen, and enduring presence in the film industry.
Key Facts
Category | Details |
Full Name | Robert John Wagner Jr. |
Date of Birth | February 10, 1930 |
Place of Birth | Detroit, Michigan |
Current Residence | Bel-Air, Los Angeles, California; Aspen, Colorado |
Nationality | American |
Profession | Actor, Producer |
Years Active | 1950–present |
Spouse | Jill St. John (married 1990) |
Previous Spouse(s) | Natalie Wood (1957–1962, remarried 1972–1981), Marion Marshall (1963–1971) |
Children | Katie Wagner, Courtney Wagner |
Net Worth | Estimated around $20 million |
Famous Roles | Jonathan Hart (Hart to Hart), Number Two (Austin Powers), and George Lytton (The Pink Panther) |
Books Authored | Pieces of My Heart, You Must Remember This |
Key Awards | Various lifetime achievement recognitions |
Notable Properties | Luxury homes in Bel-Air, California, and Aspen, Colorado |
Military Academy | Hollywood Military Academy |
Early Career Milestone | Signed by Twentieth Century Fox in the 1950s |
Iconic TV Shows | It Takes a Thief, Hart to Hart, Switch |
Philanthropy | Supports causes in education and the arts |
Early Life and Background
Robert John Wagner Jr. was born on February 10, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan. He was the son of Hazel Wagner, a telephone operator, and Robert Wagner Sr., a successful salesman. His family relocated to Los Angeles when he was a child, giving him proximity to the heart of the film industry.
Wagner attended Saint Monica Catholic School and later the Hollywood Military Academy, where his charisma and passion for drama blossomed. His early exposure to the entertainment world influenced his dreams of becoming a performer.
By his teenage years, he worked at the Bel-Air Country Club, where he rubbed elbows with notable Hollywood stars, planting the seeds for his acting career.
Physical Appearances
With his tall frame, piercing blue eyes, and classic good looks, Robert Wagner was the epitome of a Hollywood star. Standing at 5 feet 11 inches, his charisma and charm played a key role in his success.
Even in his later years, Wagner’s appearance continues to reflect the sophistication and elegance that defined his prime. His timeless appeal has contributed to his lasting presence in the film industry.
Education
While Robert Wagner never pursued higher education, his academic journey shaped his early aspirations. He graduated from Hollywood Military Academy, known for its discipline and focus on leadership.
Afterward, Wagner focused on learning the craft of acting, with no formal training but plenty of on-the-job experience. His natural talent and determination helped him overcome any gaps in formal education, proving that success often stems from passion and hard work.
Relationships and Personal Life
Natalie Wood
Wagner’s most well-known relationship was with actress Natalie Wood, one of the brightest stars of her generation. The couple first married in 1957, divorced in 1962, and remarried in 1972. Tragically, Wood drowned under mysterious circumstances on November 29, 1981, near Catalina Island. Wagner was on the yacht Splendour that night with Christopher Walken and captain Dennis Davern, leading to years of speculation about her death.
Jill St. John
In 1990, Wagner married Jill St. John, another Hollywood icon. Their marriage has endured for over three decades, showcasing a deep bond and shared interests. The couple often splits their time between their Bel-Air mansion and a luxurious property in Aspen, Colorado.
Robert Wagner Net Worth 2023
Robert Wagner’s net worth, estimated at $20 million, reflects his long-standing success in the entertainment industry. His wealth stems from multiple income streams, including acting salaries, royalties, and smart investments. Wagner’s roles in iconic films like “A Kiss Before Dying“ and “The Pink Panther” and television hits like “Hart to Hart” contributed significantly to his earnings.
Beyond acting, Wagner leveraged his success by establishing Rona II Productions, adding a lucrative production angle to his portfolio. Real estate has also played a significant role in his financial journey, with luxury properties in Bel-Air and Aspen, Colorado, increasing his wealth over time.
Robert Wagner’s Career and Rise to Fame
Early Film Roles
Wagner signed with Twentieth Century Fox in the early 1950s, making his debut in “The Happy Years” (1950). His breakout role came in “With a Song in My Heart” (1952), where his performance captured the attention of audiences and critics alike. He later starred in films like “Beneath the 12-Mile Reef,” “A Kiss Before Dying,” and “The Pink Panther.”
By the 1960s, Wagner transitioned to television, a move that solidified his status as a Hollywood legend.
TV Success
Wagner became a household name with shows like “It Takes a Thief” and “Hart to Hart,” where he played the charming Jonathan Hart. His enduring charisma kept him relevant, with guest appearances on shows like “NCIS,” “Boston Legal,” and “Seinfeld.”
Earnings and Wealth Accumulation
Wagner’s wealth stems from several income streams, including acting salaries, residuals, royalties, and endorsements. Here’s a table showcasing the sources of his $20 million net worth:
Income Source | Details | Estimated Contribution |
Acting Roles | Movies like “A Kiss Before Dying” | $5 million |
Television Shows | “Hart to Hart,” “It Takes a Thief” | $6 million |
Real Estate Investments | Properties in Aspen and Bel-Air | $7 million |
Royalties and Residuals | Syndication of TV shows | $2 million |
Real Estate Investments
Wagner has built much of his wealth through savvy real estate investments. He owns properties in some of the most exclusive neighborhoods, including Beverly Hills, Bel-Air, and Aspen.
His Bel-Air estate reflects his penchant for elegance, while his Aspen home offers breathtaking views of the mountains, blending luxury with nature. Real estate remains a cornerstone of his financial success story.
Wealth and Legacy
Net Worth Robert Wagner stands as a testament to his hard work and financial acumen. His income comes not just from acting but also from Rona II Productions, his own production company. This diversification has ensured his financial stability over the years.
Additionally, Wagner is known for his philanthropy, supporting causes related to education and the arts. His ability to invest wisely and plan for the long term sets him apart in the world of celebrity finances.
FAQ’s
How Much is Robert Wagner Worth?
Robert Wagner’s net worth is estimated to be in the range of millions, reflecting his long and successful acting career, smart investments, and royalties from television and film. His financial journey spans decades of hard work and thoughtful planning.
Where Is Robert Wagner Living Now?
Robert Wagner resides in Los Angeles, California, where he shares a luxurious home in the exclusive Bel-Air neighborhood. He also owns a second property in Aspen, Colorado, where he enjoys a peaceful mountain lifestyle.
How Much Are the Wagners Worth?
The combined wealth of Robert Wagner and Jill St. John includes earnings from their successful Hollywood careers and investments in real estate, placing their overall worth in the realm of significant fortune, accumulated over decades.
What Is Pastor John Wagner’s Net Worth?
Pastor John Wagner, unrelated to Robert Wagner, is a respected figure in his field. While his exact net worth isn’t widely reported, it likely reflects his dedication to his ministry and other endeavors.
Who Is Robert Wagner’s Spouse?
Robert Wagner is married to actress Jill St. John. Their enduring relationship, which began in 1990, exemplifies a Hollywood love story that has stood the test of time.
What Happened to Natalie Wood?
Natalie Wood, Robert Wagner’s late wife, tragically drowned near Catalina Island in 1981 under circumstances that remain a subject of speculation and investigation. Her death continues to draw attention decades later.
What Are Robert Wagner’s Most Famous Roles?
Wagner is best known for his roles in Hart to Hart, The Pink Panther, and It Takes a Thief. These performances solidified his reputation as a leading man in Hollywood.
How Did Robert Wagner Start His Career?
Robert Wagner began his career with small film roles before signing with Twentieth Century Fox. His breakout came with With a Song in My Heart, launching him into stardom.
What Is Robert Wagner’s Connection to Aspen, Colorado?
Wagner owns a stunning property in Aspen, where he spends time enjoying the serene mountain landscape. This residence reflects his love for nature and luxury.
Does Robert Wagner Have Children?
Yes, Wagner has two daughters, Katie Wagner and Courtney Wagner, from his marriages. Both have pursued their interests while maintaining a connection to Hollywood.
What Books Has Robert Wagner Written?
Robert Wagner has authored two autobiographies: Pieces of My Heart and You Must Remember This. Both books provide an intimate look into his life and career.
What Is Robert Wagner’s Age?
Robert Wagner was born on February 10, 1930, making him one of Hollywood’s enduring stars with a career spanning over seven decades.
Has Robert Wagner Won Any Awards?
While Wagner has not won major awards like an Oscar, he has been celebrated with various honors, including lifetime achievement recognitions, for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
What Is Robert Wagner’s Legacy?
Robert Wagner’s legacy is rooted in his iconic roles, his resilience in Hollywood, and his ability to adapt to changing times. His career serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors.
Does Robert Wagner Still Appear in Films or TV?
Though not as active as in his prime, Wagner occasionally appears in guest roles and special projects, keeping his presence alive in the entertainment world.
Conclusion
Robert Wagner, born February 10, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan, is a legendary Hollywood actor with a career spanning over seven decades. Known for his iconic roles in Hart to Hart and The Pink Panther, Robert became a household name in the film industry and on television. His net worth is estimated at $20 million, earned through acting, royalties, and smart investments.
Married to actress Jill St. John, Robert resides in luxury homes in Bel-Air and Aspen, Colorado, reflecting his success and refined lifestyle. Beyond acting, he founded Rona II Productions, further boosting his wealth. Robert’s enduring legacy highlights his talent, business acumen, and contribution to the entertainment world.