Anthony Edwards, a renowned American actor and director, boasts an impressive net worth of $40 million. The majority of his wealth stems from his role as Dr. Mark Greene on the iconic medical drama “ER.” Edwards appeared on the series from its debut in 1994 through to 2002, showcasing his talents across 181 episodes. His portrayal of the character earned him multiple accolades, including a Golden Globe and six Screen Actors Guild Awards, as well as four Primetime Emmy nominations.
During his time on “ER,” Edwards’ role not only shaped his career but also made him one of the highest-paid actors in television. In the late 1990s, he signed a lucrative three-year contract valued at $35 million, which paid him approximately $530,000 per episode. This contract placed Edwards among the highest earners in television until later eclipsed by the stars of “Friends” and Jerry Seinfeld.
A Career Beyond “ER”
While Edwards is best known for his role on “ER,” his acting career spans a variety of other notable projects. In addition to the medical drama, he made a lasting impression in films like “Top Gun” (1986), where he played ‘Goose’ opposite Tom Cruise. This film became a massive success, grossing over $350 million worldwide. His performance in “Top Gun” continues to be a major milestone in his career.
Edwards’s filmography also includes notable roles in movies such as “Zodiac” (2007), “Miracle Mile” (1988), “Revenge of the Nerds” (1984), and “Planes” (2013). His versatility has allowed him to take on a wide range of roles, both in dramatic and comedic films.
The “ER” Milestone
In 1994, Anthony Edwards landed his breakthrough role on “ER,” playing the compassionate and often troubled Dr. Mark Greene. His character became central to the show, especially after George Clooney’s departure. Throughout the series, Edwards portrayed a character who evolved from a calm mediator to the show’s main figure. “ER” gained a huge following and ran for 15 seasons, with Edwards remaining part of the cast for its first eight seasons. During this time, the show achieved high ratings and numerous critical accolades.
His work on the show earned him prestigious awards, such as a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Drama Series and several Screen Actors Guild Awards. These accolades solidified his place as one of television’s top actors during the 1990s.
Edwards’ Early Career
Anthony Edwards’s journey into acting began in the 1980s. After initially appearing in TV series such as “It Takes Two,” he made his film debut with a brief but memorable role in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” (1982), where he portrayed a laid-back stoner. However, it was his role in “Revenge of the Nerds” (1984) as Gilbert Lowell that garnered him significant attention.
Edwards reprised his role in “Revenge of the Nerds II: Nerds in Paradise” (1987), but his appearance was much smaller. His next big break came in 1986 when he was cast as ‘Goose’ in “Top Gun” alongside Tom Cruise. The movie’s overwhelming success catapulted Edwards into stardom, with the film becoming one of the highest-grossing films of the year.
1980s to 1990s: Films and TV Appearances
Following “Top Gun,” Edwards continued to build his career with appearances in films like “Hawks” (1988) and “Downtown” (1990). During the early 1990s, he also made notable appearances in “Pet Sematary Two” (1992) and had several guest spots on TV shows such as “Northern Exposure.” By the time “ER” began, Edwards had already established himself as a familiar face in both film and television.
Personal Struggles and Advocacy Work
Though his professional life was thriving, Edwards faced personal challenges in his youth. In 2017, he publicly shared a tragic detail from his early life, revealing that he and several others had been sexually assaulted by Gary Goddard, a prominent producer in Hollywood. The abuse began when Edwards was just 12 years old, and he has since become a passionate advocate for male survivors of sexual abuse. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Board for 1in6, an organization that provides support for men who have experienced unwanted sexual trauma.
Later Career: New Ventures and Voice Work
After “ER,” Edwards’ career evolved as he took on a variety of roles. In 2007, he appeared in “Zodiac,” a film directed by David Fincher about the infamous Zodiac killer. The 2010s brought further variety, including voice work in “Planes” (2013), an animated Disney film. His acting roles during this period have included appearances in “Law & Order True Crime” (2017) and the Netflix series “Designated Survivor” (2018).
Beyond acting, Edwards has explored directing, first during his time on “ER” and later with his 2016 directorial debut “My Dead Boyfriend.” His evolving career reflects both his range as an actor and his interest in different aspects of the entertainment industry.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Anthony Edwards’s personal life has seen significant milestones. In 1994, he married Swedish-born makeup artist Jeanine Lobell, with whom he had four children. The couple divorced in 2015 after over two decades of marriage. Jeanine Lobell is the founder of Stila Cosmetics, which was acquired by Estee Lauder in 1999 for an undisclosed sum.
In 2021, Edwards married actress Mare Winningham, who is best known for her roles in films like “St. Elmo’s Fire” and “Turner & Hooch.”
Real Estate Ventures
Edwards has had a varied real estate portfolio. In 1998, he and Jeanine purchased an oceanfront home in Dana Point, California, for $2 million, investing an additional $500,000 in renovations. The property was listed for sale in April 2023 for $6.5 million.
Additionally, Edwards and his family owned a home in Los Feliz, California, for many years. In 2014, they rented a home in New York City for $40,000 per month before purchasing a duplex penthouse in Carnegie Hill for $8.52 million in 2015. Despite its luxurious features, Edwards sold the unit in 2020 for $6.5 million, taking a significant loss compared to the original purchase price.
In 2021, Edwards made another real estate purchase, acquiring a home on Fifth Avenue in New York City for $2.7 million, shortly before marrying Mare Winningham.
Anthony Edwards’ career is a testament to his versatility and ability to thrive in both film and television. From his groundbreaking role in “ER” to his notable contributions in films like “Top Gun”, Edwards has solidified his place as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors. His advocacy work, especially around the issue of male sexual abuse, further highlights his depth and commitment to using his platform for positive change. With a varied career, a thriving personal life, and a lasting legacy, Anthony Edwards continues to be a significant figure in the entertainment industry.
