Peter Graves, an American actor known for his deep voice, charisma, and an acting career spanning over five decades, left behind both a memorable legacy in Hollywood and a remarkable financial footprint. From shining brightly in the iconic television series “Mission: Impossible” to his comedic role in the blockbuster “Airplane!,” Graves carved a unique niche for himself in entertainment. This article explores his birth, upbringing, education, career highlights, struggles, achievements, and answers the frequently searched query, what is Peter Graves net worth?
Early Life and Family Background
Peter Graves, born Peter Duesler Aurness on March 18, 1926, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, grew up in a family with Norwegian, German, and English ancestry. He was raised alongside his older brother, James Arness, who would later become known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke. Their father, Rolf Aurness, was a businessman, and their mother, Ruth Duesler, was a journalist.
Peter demonstrated a keen interest in music and sports during childhood and worked as a radio announcer at the age of 16 for WMIN in Minneapolis. Choosing to avoid potential confusion with his brother James in Hollywood, Peter adopted the surname Graves to honor his maternal family.
After graduating from Southwest High School in 1944, Graves served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, attaining the rank of corporal. Post-service, he used the GI Bill to attend the University of Minnesota, where he majored in drama. His formal training in acting set the stage for his illustrious career.
Career Highlights
Early Breakthroughs in Film
Peter Graves started his acting career in 1951 with his feature film debut in the Western “Rogue River”. Over the next few years, he made a solid impression in Stalag 17 (1953), where his role in this wartime classic garnered attention. Graves also appeared in notable films like The Night of the Hunter (1955) and It Conquered the World (1956). While primarily focused on dramas and Westerns, his versatility became apparent even in these early years.
Television Stardom
Graves’s television career took off in 1955 when he played rancher Jim Newton in the series “Fury”, a role that lasted for five successful years. However, he gained international fame for his role as Jim Phelps, the leader of the Impossible Missions Force in the CBS spy thriller “Mission: Impossible”, running from 1967 to 1973. His portrayal redefined charisma and leadership in the espionage genre. Graves reprised the role in the revived Mission: Impossible series (1988–1990).
Graves’s humor shone in the parody blockbuster “Airplane!” (1980) and its sequel, where he played Captain Clarence Oveur, earning him a new generation of fans. Additionally, he became the face of the A&E documentary series “Biography”, which won a Primetime Emmy Award in 1997.
Late Career Achievements
Throughout the 90s and early 2000s, Peter Graves appeared in several television shows such as “7th Heaven” and comedy skits like those in Men in Black II. His appearances also extended to advertisements and voiceovers, underlining his adaptability.
Graves received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Ojai Film Festival in 2009, celebrating nearly six decades in the industry. By the time of his passing in 2010, he had firmly solidified himself as an entertainment icon.
Personal Life and Relationships
Peter Graves married Joan Endress in 1950, and the couple remained together for 60 years until his demise. They had three daughters—Amanda, Kelly, and Claudia. Despite his Hollywood success, Graves maintained a relatively private personal life, prioritizing family values. He was noted for his humble demeanor and commitment to balancing fame with normal life.
Interestingly, Graves firmly stood by his principles; for instance, he refused to participate in the 1996 Mission: Impossible film due to its controversial depiction of his iconic character Jim Phelps.
Peter Graves Net Worth
At the time of his death on March 14, 2010, Peter Graves’s net worth was estimated at $10 million. His primary source of income stemmed from his extensive acting roles in films and TV, including his $7.5k-per-episode earnings from Mission: Impossible. Hosting roles, such as the A&E series Biography, also contributed to his wealth. Graves owned several properties and investments over his lifetime, further cementing his financial stability.
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Net Worth | ~$10 million |
Birthdate | March 18, 1926 |
Date of Death | March 14, 2010 |
Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.905 m) |
Profession | Actor, Television Host |
Notable Roles | Mission Impossible, Airplane! |
Major Awards | Golden Globe Award, Primetime Emmy Award |
Spouse | Joan Endress |
Films/Shows | Stalag 17, Biography, 7th Heaven |
Awards and Accolades
Graves was celebrated not just for his acting brilliance but also as an icon throughout his career:
- Golden Globe Award (1971) for Best Actor in Television Drama (Mission Impossible).
- Primetime Emmy Award (1997) for Biography.
- Induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2009.
These recognitions stand testimony to his talent, hard work, and commitment.
Professional Struggles and Resolutions
While Graves experienced considerable success, like every actor, he faced his share of challenges. The shift from dramatic roles to comedic roles, especially in movies like Airplane!, was initially met with skepticism. However, Graves’s willingness to experiment and adapt allowed him to overcome these perceptions, further diversifying his portfolio.
Similarly, when the 1996 Mission: Impossible film offered a problematic portrayal of his long-standing character, Graves chose integrity over monetary gain by declining participation.
Legacy
Peter Graves’s life and career remain a source of inspiration for many actors today. His performances in films, television, and voice projects continue to captivate audiences. His philanthropy, humility, and family-oriented values make him a rarified gem in Hollywood’s glitzy world.
Final Thoughts
Peter Graves succeeded in crafting a life of purpose, entertainment, and achievement. By showcasing his talent across genres and mediums, he ensured his name would remain etched in television and film history. His estimated $10 million net worth reflects the culmination of decades of hard work and dedication to his craft.