Ted McGinley is a name that resonates with TV fans from the 1980s and 1990s, known for his iconic roles in hit television shows like Happy Days and Married… with Children.
Often seen as the charming yet mischievous Chachi Arcola on Happy Days and later as the lovable but slightly clueless Jefferson D’Arcy on Married… with Children, McGinley became a staple of American television.
His distinct blend of humor and heart earned him a loyal fan base and set the stage for a long and prosperous career.
But how much is Ted McGinley really worth today? In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at his career journey, the roles that shaped his legacy, and how Ted McGinley accumulated his wealth over the years. From his early beginnings to his more recent endeavors, let’s dive into the details of his financial success.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on May 30, 1958, in Newport Beach, California, Ted McGinley was raised in a family that fostered his interest in sports and the arts. After attending high school in California, McGinley went on to study at the University of Southern California (USC), where he majored in business and economics. His early academic focus, however, didn’t keep him from pursuing his passion for acting.
McGinley’s first taste of Hollywood came in the early 1980s, when he landed small roles in TV shows and films. His breakthrough came in 1980 when he joined the cast of Happy Days as Chachi Arcola, the love interest of Joanie Cunningham, played by Erin Moran. Although his character was initially introduced as a supporting role, Chachi quickly became a fan favorite. This opportunity not only solidified McGinley’s place in pop culture but also set the foundation for his financial success.
During his time on Happy Days, McGinley garnered attention for his youthful charm and comedic timing. The show’s success also allowed him to take on more prominent roles in the years that followed. This initial period in McGinley’s career was crucial for his net worth, as it opened the door to numerous acting opportunities and provided steady work throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
Major Television and Film Roles
Ted McGinley’s career reached new heights when he joined Married… with Children in 1989 as Jefferson D’Arcy, the charming but lazy husband of Marcy D’Arcy. His role as Jefferson, the goofy and occasionally scheming neighbor, quickly became a fan favorite. McGinley’s natural comedic timing and chemistry with the cast, especially with Christina Applegate (Kelly Bundy) and Ed O’Neill (Al Bundy), made him a key player on the show. He remained a staple of Married… with Children until the series ended in 1997, and it was during this time that his net worth began to grow significantly due to both the show’s success and the lucrative nature of long-running TV series.
In addition to his role on Married… with Children, McGinley also appeared on several other popular TV shows, including The Love Boat, Dynasty, and Supermansion. His recurring guest roles allowed him to maintain a steady presence in television, earning consistent paychecks over the years.
McGinley’s success wasn’t limited to television. He also carved a niche for himself in the world of film. His most notable role came in the 1984 comedy Revenge of the Nerds, where he played the antagonist, a role that cemented his status in Hollywood. Later, McGinley appeared in films like The Wrong Guys and The Sandlot (where he had a memorable cameo). These roles, while not as financially rewarding as his TV work, contributed to McGinley’s growing net worth and Hollywood credibility.
Ted McGinley’s Personal Life and Ventures
Beyond his acting career, Ted McGinley has lived a relatively private life. He married actress Gigi Rice in 1991, and the couple has two children. McGinley’s family life has remained largely out of the public eye, contributing to his appeal as a down-to-earth figure in Hollywood. His long-lasting marriage has only added to his image as a stable and family-oriented individual, which contrasts with the often tumultuous and dramatic personas of other stars in the industry.
Outside of his acting career, McGinley has been involved in a variety of business ventures. He has invested in real estate, which has proven to be a profitable area for many celebrities. McGinley’s investments in property have likely played a significant role in the expansion of his wealth, alongside his acting income.
Additionally, McGinley is known to have pursued interests in sports, a passion he developed early in life. He played competitive tennis and has remained active in the sport throughout his life. While not directly tied to his net worth, his involvement in sports may reflect his overall discipline and strategic mindset, qualities that have likely helped him navigate his acting career and business investments.
McGinley has also maintained a positive public image, which has helped secure endorsement deals and appearances on various media platforms. These extra sources of income, alongside his acting roles and business ventures, have allowed him to grow his wealth steadily over the years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How old is Ted McGinley?
- Ted McGinley was born on May 30, 1958, which makes him 68 years old as of 2026.
- What is Ted McGinley’s most famous role?
- Ted McGinley is perhaps best known for his role as Jefferson D’Arcy on the hit sitcom Married… with Children. He also gained popularity for his portrayal of Chachi Arcola on Happy Days.
- Is Ted McGinley still acting?
- Yes, Ted McGinley is still active in the entertainment industry. While his television appearances have slowed down in recent years, he remains a popular figure in the world of TV and film, making occasional appearances in projects like Supermansion.
- How much did Ted McGinley earn per episode of Married… with Children?
- Although exact figures aren’t available, McGinley likely earned a substantial salary per episode of Married… with Children, especially during the later seasons. Estimates suggest that the cast earned around $100,000–$150,000 per episode.
- Has Ted McGinley ever won any major awards for his acting?
- While Ted McGinley has had a long and successful career, he has not won any major awards such as an Emmy or Golden Globe. However, his performances in both Happy Days and Married… with Children earned him significant recognition and a loyal fanbase.
- Does Ted McGinley have any business ventures?
- Yes, Ted McGinley has invested in real estate, which has added to his financial success over the years. He has also maintained a relatively low profile when it comes to his personal investments.
Conclusion
Ted McGinley’s career spans decades, and his journey through television and film has shaped him into a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. From his breakout role as Chachi Arcola on Happy Days to his iconic portrayal of Jefferson D’Arcy on Married… with Children, McGinley’s versatile acting has earned him both recognition and financial success.
His ability to stay relevant through various roles and ventures has been key to his lasting presence in Hollywood.
Beyond acting, McGinley’s business acumen and investments, particularly in real estate, have played a significant role in building his net worth.
While his public persona remains largely humble, his career and financial portfolio show that McGinley has mastered the art of longevity in both his professional and personal life.
As of 2026, Ted McGinley’s estimated net worth reflects his diverse income streams, from his TV roles and film appearances to his savvy investments.
Though his fame might have waned from the spotlight in recent years, McGinley’s enduring legacy in television ensures that his contributions to the industry will never be forgotten.
