What is Dana Carvey's Net Worth and Salary?
Dana Carvey is an American actor and comedian with a net worth of $20 million. Carvey gained fame in the 80s and 90s as a standout comedian, prominently featuring in 'Saturday Night Live.' He also made notable film appearances, including the iconic 'Wayne's World' (1992) and its sequel (1993). Dana's contributions to 'Saturday Night Live' earned him a Primetime Emmy Award.
In the early 2000s, Carvey took a step back from the limelight to focus on family. Despite being less active in recent years, he occasionally appears in productions and continues to succeed in stand-up comedy.
Early Life
Dana Thomas Carvey was born on June 2, 1955, in Missoula, Montana. Raised in a Lutheran household with four siblings, his family relocated to San Carlos, California, when Dana was three. Dana's brother, Brad Carvey, designed the Video Toaster, a notable video editing tool, and worked on films like 'Men In Black' and 'Black Hawk Down.' Dana's character 'Garth' in 'Wayne's World' was based on Brad.
Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, Dana practiced drumming from a young age. In high school, he joined the Central Coast Section champion cross country team. After graduation, Dana attended the College of San Mateo and then transferred to San Francisco State University, earning a degree in broadcast communications.
Career
By 1977, Dana Carvey had established himself in stand-up comedy, marked by winning the San Francisco Stand-Up Comedy Competition. He transitioned to film with a minor role in 'Halloween II' (1981). In 1982, he starred in the TV sitcom 'One of the Boys' with Mickey Rooney, Nathan Lane, and Meg Ryan. In 1984, he played a minor role in 'This is Spinal Tap' and starred in the series 'Blue Thunder.'
Carvey had his breakthrough in 1986 with roles alongside Kirk Douglas and Burt Lancaster in 'Tough Guys.' He then joined 'Saturday Night Live,' becoming essential in reversing its declining ratings. Dana's most famous characters included 'Church Lady' and 'Garth Algar.' He also impersonated George H. W. Bush and co-starred with Mike Myers in 'Wayne's World' (1992) and 'Wayne's World 2' (1993).
In the mid-90s, Carvey focused more on family, turning down roles in 'Bad Boys' and hosting gigs. He starred in 'Clean Slate' (1994) and led 'The Dana Carvey Show' (1996), which featured future stars Steve Carell and Stephen Colbert. Later, he appeared in 'Little Nicky' (2000).
Carvey's career took a hit with 'Master of Disguise' (2002), regarded as one of the worst films ever. After another flop, 'Jack and Jill' (2011), he retreated from public life, focusing on stand-up comedy and making rare appearances.
(Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)
Relationships
In 1979, Dana Carvey married his childhood sweetheart, Leah. However, he developed feelings for Paula Zwagerman, leading to his divorce in 1980. Carvey married Paula in 1983, and they have two children. The family resides in Mill Valley, Marin County, California.
Medical Issues
In 1997, Dana Carvey underwent heart bypass surgery that went wrong due to a surgical error. The surgeon operated on the wrong artery, causing ongoing health issues for Carvey. He sued for medical malpractice and won $8 million, which he donated to charity. He had further heart problems requiring additional surgeries. Notably, Frank Sinatra died in a room adjacent to Carvey's hospital room during his final angioplasty.
Real Estate
In 1999, Dana Carvey bought a professionally designed property in Ross, Northern California, for $3.75 million, nearly $6 million today. The residence was crafted by architect Gardiner Dailey and landscape artist Thomas Church.
