What is Dick Cavett's Net Worth and Salary?
Dick Cavett, a former American television talk show host, boasts a net worth of $60 million. Much of this wealth stems from astute real estate investments, particularly in Montauk, Hamptons. Cavett hosted 'The Dick Cavett Show' from 1968 to 2007, known for his intellectual interviewing style and diverse guests. More recently, Cavett wrote for the New York Times.
Early Life and Education
Born on November 19, 1936, in Gibbon, Nebraska, Dick Cavett grew up with a background rooted in English, Scottish, and Irish heritage. Raised by teachers Alva and Erabel, Cavett excelled in gymnastics at Lincoln High School. His mother's passing when he was ten marked a significant turn in his early life, as his father remarried Dorcas Deland, also a teacher.
Post-high school, Cavett took on various jobs, including as a caddie and magician. He then attended Yale University, engaging actively with the campus radio station WYBC and participating in school plays. He graduated with a drama degree in 1958 before exploring different career paths.
Oregon Shakespeare Festival
During his time at Yale, Cavett joined the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in its 16th season, performing in productions such as 'Richard III,' 'Love's Labor's Lost,' 'Romeo and Juliet,' and 'Titus Andronicus.'
The Tonight Show
In the late 50s and early 60s, Cavett began appearing on television while working as a gofer for Time magazine. He handed jokes to the then-'Tonight Show' host Jack Paar, who eventually hired him as a talent coordinator. Cavett stayed on when Johnny Carson took over in 1962 but left shortly after.
Post-Tonight Show
In 1964, Cavett ventured into stand-up comedy, performing at 'The Bitter End' in New York, 'Mr. Kelly's' in Chicago, and 'the hungry i' in San Francisco. He also appeared on game shows like 'What's My Line,' 'The Merv Griffin Show,' and 'The Ed Sullivan Show.'
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The Dick Cavett Show
In 1968, Cavett became the host of the ABC program 'This Morning,' which evolved into 'The Dick Cavett Show.' The show aired from 1968 to 1974 on ABC and in various formats on other networks, including CBS, PBS, USA Network, and CNBC, until its final stint from 2006 to 2007 on Turner Classic Movies.
Cavett was celebrated for his intellectual interviewing style, exceptional listening skills, and a relaxed demeanor. He often devoted entire episodes to individual guests like Groucho Marx, Katharine Hepburn, Jerry Lewis, and Woody Allen. The show also featured political figures like Lester Maddox and John Kerry, winning multiple Emmy Awards.
Other Appearances
Cavett appeared in films and TV series primarily as himself, such as in Woody Allen's 'Annie Hall' (1977) and 'Power Play' (1978). He also narrated the HBO series 'Time Was' (1979). In 1981, he hosted 'Dick Cavett Meets ABBA' and appeared on sitcoms 'Kate & Allie' and 'Cheers.' In 1987, he featured in 'A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors,' and in 1988, had a role in Tim Burton's 'Beetlejuice.'
Later, he took a rare non-self role in 'Excuse Me for Living' (2012) and starred in the play 'Hellman v. McCarthy' in 2014.
Personal Life
Cavett married his Yale classmate Carrie Nye in 1964, staying together until her death in 2006. He married author Martha Rogers in 2010, gaining two stepchildren through the union.
Real Estate
Cavett owns a valuable Manhattan apartment and made a notable investment in Montauk, Long Island, purchasing around 100 acres 50 years ago. He sold 77 acres to the US government in 2008 for $18 million, with the remaining 20 acres listed for $65 million in 2017. The property, featuring a 7,000 sq ft home rebuilt after a fire, sold for $26 million in 2021. Here's a video tour of the incredible property:
