James Woods

James Woods is a prominent Hollywood actor with a career that spans over five decades. Born in Warwick, Rhode Island, he pursued acting after studying political science at MIT. Woods gained fame for his roles in films like “Salvador” and “Casino,” earning him an Academy Award nomination. He has a diverse range of talents, including voice acting as Hades in Disney’s “Hercules.” His impressive net worth reflects his extensive work in film and television. More insights await those interested in his life and career.

Early Life

James Woods had a remarkable early life marked by academic excellence and a passion for the arts. He grew up in Warwick, Rhode Island, where he graduated near the top of his class from Pilgrim High School in 1965.

Following high school, Woods attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he majored in political science and was actively involved in the Theta Delta Chi fraternity and the student theatre group Dramashop.

However, inspired by Tim Affleck, the father of actor Ben Affleck, he made the bold decision to leave MIT in 1969, just before graduation, to pursue his dream of acting.

His theatrical odyssey began with a Broadway debut in 1970 in the play “Borstal Boy,” highlighting his early commitment to the performing arts.

Family Life

James Woods comes from a supportive family background, with his mother, Martha A. Smith, operating a preschool and later remarrying Thomas E. Dixon, who played a considerable role in his upbringing.

Woods has been married three times: initially to Kathryn Morrison, then to Sarah Owen, and currently to Sara Miller since 2022. Importantly, he has no children from any of his marriages.

Despite the challenges of losing his father, Gail Peyton Woods, at a young age, Woods often reflects on the nurturing environment provided by his parents.

Career

James Woods launched his acting career on Broadway in 1970 and quickly rose to prominence with standout performances in films like “The Onion Field” (1979) and “Salvador” (1986), the latter earning him an Academy Award nomination.

He is renowned for his versatility, portraying complex characters such as Roy Cohn in “Citizen Cohn” (1992) and Lester Diamond in “Casino” (1995). Woods also exhibited his voice acting skills as Hades in Disney’s animated film “Hercules” (1997), a role he has reprised in a variety of projects.

In addition to acting, he has taken on roles as a producer and director, particularly serving as the executive producer for “Oppenheimer” and directing “I’m a Stroke” (2003).

Throughout his career, Woods has garnered critical acclaim and received two Emmy Awards, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in both film and television.

Net Worth

James Woods has an estimated net worth of $10 million, primarily earned through his extensive career in film and television.

Throughout his career, he has drawn considerable salaries from his top films, including $2 million for “Casino,” $1.5 million for “The Virgin Suicides,” $1.5 million for “Something About Mary,” $1 million for “Ghosts of Mississippi,” and $750,000 for “Once Upon a Time in America.”

In addition to acting, Woods has diversified his income through producing, directing, and voice work, particularly his role as Hades in Disney’s “Hercules.”