Daniel Stern at a Glance
- Categories: Celebrities > Actors, Celebrities
- Net Worth: $20 Million
- Birthdate: Aug 28, 1957 (66 years old)
- Birthplace: Bethesda
- Gender: Male
- Profession: Actor, Television Director, Film Producer, Screenwriter, Sculptor, Voice Actor
- Nationality: United States of America
- Height: 6 ft 3 in (1.93 m)
Daniel Stern’s Net Worth: A Deep Dive into the Life and Career of the Home Alone Star
Daniel Stern, the beloved American actor known for his comedic timing and versatile performances, has built a successful career spanning several decades. But what is Daniel Stern’s net worth? This article delves into the details of his earnings, career highlights, and personal life, providing a comprehensive overview of how he amassed his wealth and established his legacy in Hollywood.
Early Life and Education
Born on August 28, 1957, in Bethesda, Maryland, Daniel Stern’s early life was shaped by his family and surroundings. Raised in a Jewish household, he grew up with a supportive family; his father worked as a social worker, and his mother managed a daycare center. Stern also had a brother, David Stern, who later became a television writer, indicating a family background with creative leanings. His interest in acting blossomed early, during his high school years at Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School. He actively participated in school theater productions, showcasing his talent in plays like Fiddler on the Roof and Promises, Promises. To earn extra money, he worked as a gas station attendant, which provided him with early life experiences.
Stern’s commitment to acting led him to drop out of high school during his senior year to pursue acting seriously. He moved to New York City to hone his craft and took acting lessons from renowned teachers such as Austin Pendleton and Herbert Berghof. His dedication to acting led to roles in both Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, including True West, How I Got That Story, Split, and The Mandrake.
Film and Television Career: From Breaking Away to Home Alone
Daniel Stern’s film career began in 1979 with a role in Breaking Away, where he played Cyril. This role helped launch his career and gained him positive media attention, with the film winning an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. His next role was in Barry Levinson’s film Diner, where Stern played the role of Laurence “Shrevie” Schreiber. This film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay and was praised by critics.
Throughout the 1980s, Stern continued to work steadily, securing roles in the action thriller Blue Thunder and two Woody Allen films: Stardust Memories and Hannah and Her Sisters. He gained increased fame as he ventured into comedic films. He played the role of Phil Berquist in City Slickers, a film that earned a spot on several of the American Film Institute’s lists and Bravo’s “100 Funniest Movies” list. He was nominated for an American Comedy Award in the Funniest Supporting Actor category. He reprised his role in City Slickers II: The Legend of Curly’s Gold.
Stern’s most iconic role came in 1990, starring alongside Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, and Catherine O’Hara in Home Alone. The film was a massive box-office success, remaining at number one for 12 consecutive weeks and becoming the highest-grossing Christmas film since 2018. He reprised his role in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York in 1992. His work in comedy continued with roles in Bushwacked and Very Bad Things.

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Voice Acting, Directing, and Other Ventures
Beyond his on-screen roles, Stern has also made significant contributions to voice acting and directing. One of his most notable voice roles was as the adult Kevin Arnold in the beloved television series The Wonder Years, providing a reflective and poignant narrative. During this time, he also worked with his brother David, a screenwriter for the show. He voiced the main character of Dilbert in the series based on the popular Scott Adams comic strip.
In addition to acting, Stern also ventured into writing and directing. He directed several episodes of The Wonder Years and the film Rookie of the Year. In 2001, he created and starred in the series Danny, although it was canceled midway through its first season. He returned to his theater roots by writing Barbra’s Wedding, which had a successful six-month off-Broadway run. His recent work includes a role in the 2018 comedy Game Over, Man! and the 2019 film James vs. His Future Self, for which he received a Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He also had a recurring role in the streaming comedy series Shrill.
Personal Life and Interests
In 1980, Daniel Stern married Laure Mattos, with whom he has three children: one son and two daughters. His son, Henry, became a California State Senator. His daughter Sophie is a musician, and his youngest daughter Ella is a health worker. Stern’s interests extend beyond acting. He has developed a strong passion for fine arts, particularly bronze sculpture. His work has been featured in numerous galleries and art fairs. He has also created sculptures for the cities of Pasadena, San Diego, and Palm Desert. He currently serves as an artist in residence at the Studio Channel Islands Art Centre in Camarillo, California.
Real Estate
Daniel and Laure Stern enjoyed life on a 2-acre property in Point Dume, Malibu, for nearly three decades. They listed their 4,300-square-foot home, which features five bedrooms and five bathrooms, in April 2022 for $14.95 million. This listing represented a significant increase from the $1.15 million they initially paid for the property in 1993.
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Daniel Stern Net Worth Summary
Daniel Stern’s net worth is estimated to be $20 million, reflecting his successful career in film, television, and other creative endeavors. His consistent work in memorable roles, combined with his ventures into directing, writing, and art, has established him as a versatile and enduring figure in Hollywood. From his early acting days to his iconic role in Home Alone and beyond, Stern’s career continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
Career Earnings
Source / Title | Amount |
---|---|
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York | $1 Million |
Total Earnings | $1 Million |