Jonathan Frakes Net Worth

Jonathan Frakes’ Net Worth: A Look at the Life and Career of the Star Trek Icon

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Jonathan Frakes, a name synonymous with the Star Trek universe, has cultivated a successful career as an actor, director, and author. With a combined net worth of $25 million, reflecting his own accomplishments and those of his wife, actress Genie Francis, Frakes has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Francis, known for her long-standing role as Laura Spencer on the daytime soap opera General Hospital, has been a constant companion and partner for over three decades.

Born as Jonathan Scott Frakes on August 19, 1952, in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, Frakes’ early life was marked by a diverse range of interests. Introduced to jazz music by his father, he began playing the trombone in fourth grade. A childhood friend recalls him as friendly, humorous, and naturally inclined towards performance. During his high school years, Frakes was active in the school band and ran track. These early experiences laid the groundwork for his future success. In the 1970s, Frakes ventured into the world of comic books, working for Marvel Comics and appearing at conventions in costume as Captain America. He also joined “The Impossible Ragtime Theater” and made his off-Broadway debut in Eugene O’Neill’s “The Hairy Ape.” Frakes built his early acting resume with guest appearances on popular television shows like The Waltons, The Dukes of Hazzard, Matlock, and Steven Bochco’s Hill Street Blues. He secured a starring role in the prime-time soap opera “Bare Essence” during the 1980s, further establishing his presence on the screen.

(Photo by Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images)

Star Trek: The Next Generation: Riker’s Rise to Fame

In 1987, Jonathan Frakes landed the role that would define his career and propel him to international fame: Commander William T. Riker in “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” Ironically, he was unfamiliar with the original Star Trek series when auditioning and had to familiarize himself with the franchise by watching tapes of the original episodes. Riker’s character quickly became a fan favorite, and Frakes’ portrayal, marked by his command presence and a charismatic charm, endeared him to audiences worldwide. He appeared in an impressive 176 episodes of the series, solidifying his position in the Star Trek legacy. Furthermore, he reprised the role in several feature films based on the show.

Frakes is one of only two actors from the Star Trek franchise to have appeared in four different series: “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” “Star Trek: Voyager,” and “Star Trek: Enterprise.” This remarkable accomplishment highlights his versatility and the enduring popularity of the Star Trek universe. His portrayal of Riker has become a touchstone for the franchise, influencing the character’s development across multiple iterations.

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Directing Career and Beyond the Bridge

Demonstrating his versatility, Jonathan Frakes transitioned behind the camera in 1990, beginning his directing career with episodes of “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” His success continued with directing assignments in the spin-off series “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” and “Star Trek: Voyager.” In 1996, Frakes made his feature film directorial debut with “Star Trek: First Contact,” a critical and commercial success. This film, which he also acted in, further cemented his standing within the Star Trek franchise. He went on to direct “Star Trek: Insurrection” in 1998 and later directed several non-Star Trek films, showcasing his ability to work across various genres.

His efficient directing style earned him the nickname “Two-Takes Frakes” on the set of “Star Trek: First Contact,” a testament to his ability to bring projects in on schedule and within budget. Frakes’ directorial talents have been in high demand, leading to an impressive portfolio of television work over the past two decades. He has directed episodes of numerous popular television shows, including “The Orville,” “The Librarians,” “Burn Notice,” “NCIS: Los Angeles,” and “Leverage,” showcasing his adaptability across different genres and formats.

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Salaries and Financial Success

By the late 1980s and early 1990s, Jonathan Frakes’ salary per episode of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” was $45,000. As the series gained popularity and reached its final seasons, he was earning $100,000 per episode. Adjusted for inflation, this is approximately equivalent to $180,000 today. His compensation for the Star Trek films also reflects his rising status within the industry. He earned $400,000 for his role in 1994’s “Star Trek Generations” and received a substantial $5 million for “Star Trek: First Contact” in 1996, a film he also directed. These figures illustrate Frakes’ financial success and the value he brought to the Star Trek franchise.

Personal Life and Real Estate Ventures

Jonathan Frakes’ personal life is as stable as his career. He has been married to actress Genie Francis since 1988. Their long-lasting marriage is a testament to their commitment and affection for each other. They have two children together, further solidifying their family unit.

The couple has also made strategic real estate investments. In 2017, they purchased a home in Woodland Hills, California, for $2.8 million. In June 2019, they listed this property for sale at just under $4 million. They previously owned a large Colonial mansion in Beverly Hills for nearly 30 years, which they sold in 2015 for $12 million. These real estate ventures reflect their financial acumen and comfortable lifestyle.

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Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Jonathan Frakes

Jonathan Frakes’ career is a compelling narrative of talent, versatility, and enduring success. From his early beginnings to his iconic role as Commander Riker in “Star Trek,” and his transition to a respected director, Frakes has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive within the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry. His financial success, stable personal life, and continued contributions to television and film ensure his legacy as a significant figure in popular culture and a testament to the enduring power of the Star Trek franchise.