David Caruso Net Worth

What is David Caruso’s Net Worth? A Look at His Career and Earnings

David Caruso, the distinctive actor known for his intense performances and unique delivery on CSI: Miami, has amassed a significant net worth over his decades-long career. This article dives deep into the financial success and career trajectory of David Caruso, exploring his earnings from his most iconic roles, his early life, and his ventures outside of acting. From his early days in film to the height of his television fame, we’ll examine the factors contributing to David Caruso’s wealth and the key moments that shaped his financial journey.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

David Stephen Caruso was born on January 7, 1956, in Forest Hills, Queens, New York. Raised in a Roman Catholic household, he experienced a challenging upbringing when his father left the family, leading him to take on a quasi-paternal role at a young age. His mother, a librarian, raised him as a single parent. After attending a Catholic school, Caruso graduated from high school in Briarwood in 1974. These early experiences helped shape the actor he would later become.

During his youth, Caruso worked as a cinema usher, a job that deeply influenced his passion for acting. Watching over 80 movies per week, he developed a deep appreciation for the craft. He has mentioned that he and his coworkers would act out scenes from their favorite films at the back of the theater. He looked up to actors like Humphrey Bogart, James Cagney, and Edward G. Robinson, drawing inspiration from their performances.

Caruso’s professional acting career began with a small role in the 1980 film “Getting Wasted.” However, he gained significant recognition in 1982 for his supporting role in “An Officer and a Gentleman,” followed by supporting roles in films like “First Blood,” “Blue City,” “China Girl,” and “Twins” throughout the 1980s. He also began to venture into television, appearing in the NBC police drama “Hill Street Blues” and the miniseries “The First Olympics: Athens 1896.”

NYPD Blue and the Salary Controversy

In 1993, David Caruso landed his first major starring role as Detective John Kelly in the groundbreaking police drama “NYPD Blue.” This series marked a turning point in his career, catapulting him to critical acclaim and a Golden Globe Award for his performance. However, his time on the show was short-lived due to a high-profile salary dispute.

During the first season, Caruso was reportedly earning $42,500 per episode, a figure he considered insufficient. For the second season, he demanded a six-figure salary per episode, approximately $100,000 per episode. He also requested a range of additional perks, including a 38-foot trailer, Fridays off, an office suite, two Manhattan suites, 12 first-class plane tickets, and a personal security team. When the network did not fully meet his demands, Caruso decided to leave the show. This decision was later viewed by many as a significant misstep, as his career stagnated for a decade until his next major success.

Despite appearing in only 26 episodes of “NYPD Blue,” the show went on to air 235 episodes without him. The impact of this decision on his career trajectory is a key factor in assessing his overall financial success.

CSI: Miami – The Role That Defined His Career

Following a period of relative career stagnation after his departure from “NYPD Blue,” David Caruso found his defining role in 2002 when he was cast as Lieutenant Horatio Caine in “CSI: Miami.” This role brought him international fame and a resurgence of popularity. The character, known for his dramatic delivery and sunglasses, became an iconic figure in television history, solidifying Caruso’s status in the entertainment industry.

Caruso’s salary on “CSI: Miami” fluctuated throughout the series’ run, but at its peak, he earned $375,000 per episode, equating to approximately $9 million per season. This substantial income significantly boosted his net worth and provided him with financial stability. He also reprised his role in several “CSI” spin-offs, further expanding his earnings and influence.

However, after ten successful seasons, “CSI: Miami” was canceled in 2012. This event prompted Caruso to step away from acting and pursue opportunities in the art business, signaling a shift in his professional priorities.

(Photo by Jun Sato/ WireImage)

David Caruso’s Net Worth and Earnings

David Caruso’s net worth is estimated to be around $35 million. This figure reflects his earnings from acting roles, particularly from “CSI: Miami,” and his investments over his career. While his initial salary demands and departure from “NYPD Blue” may have had short-term consequences, his success in “CSI: Miami” allowed him to accumulate significant wealth.

Here’s a breakdown of key income sources:

• NYPD Blue: While his initial salary was modest, the impact of this role on his career trajectory cannot be ignored.
• CSI: Miami: Peak earnings of $375,000 per episode, contributing significantly to his net worth.
• Film Roles: Income from supporting and leading roles in various films throughout the 80s, 90s, and 2000s.
• Other Ventures: Investments and business activities, including his involvement in the art business following his retirement from acting.

His financial success showcases his ability to capitalize on his talent and navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry. His ability to secure high salaries in the later stages of his career played a vital role in building his current net worth.

Personal Life, Relationships, and Real Estate

David Caruso’s personal life has also been marked by significant relationships and legal proceedings. He was married to actress Rachel Ticotin from 1984 to 1987, and they had one child together. Later, he began a long-term relationship with Liza Marquez, with whom he had two children. Their relationship ended in 2007, leading to legal disputes.

Marquez sued Caruso for over $1.2 million and a deed to a home, claiming he had promised her financial support and property. The lawsuit included allegations of fraud, breach of settlement agreements, and emotional distress. These legal battles provided insight into his personal finances and relationship dynamics.

In terms of real estate, Caruso owns a property in Sherman Oaks, California, which he purchased in 2005 for $1.85 million. This property, located in an area popular with celebrities, is another component of his overall wealth.

/**/

Conclusion

David Caruso’s net worth of $35 million is a testament to his successful career in acting. From his early roles to his iconic portrayal of Lieutenant Horatio Caine in “CSI: Miami,” Caruso has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. His story highlights the importance of strategic career choices, the impact of iconic roles, and the long-term financial benefits they can provide. While his career has had its ups and downs, the financial success associated with his leading role in “CSI: Miami” has ensured his place among the notable actors.