Erik Estrada, an American actor and reserve police officer, is best known for his role as Officer Frank Poncherello on “CHiPs.” His career includes roles in Spanish-language telenovelas, various TV series, and movies like “Hour of the Assassin” and “Caged Fury.”
He has also appeared in reality TV and infomercials and is known for his work in law enforcement, having served as a reserve police officer.
When it comes to Erik Estrada net worth in 2024, it’s estimated to be $4 million.
Career Success
In the 1970s, Erik Estrada appeared on popular TV shows like “Emergency!,” “Kojak,” and “The Six Million Dollar Man.”
His most famous role came in 1977 when he starred as Frank “Ponch” Poncherello on “CHiPs,” a show about California Highway Patrol officers. During filming in 1979, he was severely injured in a motorcycle accident, breaking both wrists and multiple ribs.
Later that year, People Magazine named him one of the “10 Sexiest Bachelors in the World.”
After “CHiPs,” Erik Estrada returned to television in 1987, appearing in a three-part episode of “Hunter” and the telenovela “Rosa salvaje.” His most notable telenovela role came in 1993 with “Dos mujeres, un camino,” where he played Johnny, a trucker from Tijuana.
The show, which was originally set for 100 episodes but extended to over 200, became a major hit in Latin American television. Estrada was reportedly paid 1 million pesos for his role.
After “Dos mujeres, un camino,” Erik Estrada cohosted “American Adventurer,” an outdoor adventure show that ran until 2004. In the 1990s, he appeared on various TV shows, including “Cybill,” “Pauly,” “Sabrina the Teenage Witch,” and “Baywatch.”
He also reprised his role as Frank Poncherello in the TV film “CHiPs ’99” and lent his voice to animated series like “King of the Hill” and “Family Guy.”
Activism and Law Enforcement
In 2000, Erik Estrada became the international spokesperson for D.A.R.E., an anti-drug education campaign. He has also supported organizations such as the American Heart Association, the United Way, and the C.H.P. Foundation, which aids families of California Highway Patrol personnel.
Additionally, Estrada serves as a spokesman for the C.H.P.’s car seat inspection and installation program.
