Kent McCord is a name that resonates with fans of classic television, especially those who grew up watching “Adam-12.” With a career spanning several decades, McCord has established himself as a respected actor in Hollywood. But how much has he earned over the years? What is kent mccord net worth today? In this article, we will explore his career, earnings, and financial standing.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Kent McCord was born Kent Franklin McWhirter on September 26, 1942, in Los Angeles, California. From an early age, he showed an interest in acting and entertainment. However, before making it big in Hollywood, McCord worked various jobs, including a stint at his father’s gas station and a role as a model.
His first break in entertainment came when he met Ricky Nelson, a famous musician and actor. Through Nelson, McCord secured small roles in the TV series “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet” in the early 1960s. This connection helped him gain exposure and led to other acting opportunities.
Breakthrough with “Adam-12”
Kent McCord’s most famous role came in 1968 when he was cast as Officer Jim Reed in the police drama “Adam-12.” The show, created by Jack Webb (of “Dragnet” fame), became a huge success and ran for seven seasons from 1968 to 1975.
As a lead actor in a hit TV show, McCord gained both fame and financial stability. While salaries in the late 1960s and early 1970s were not as high as they are today, McCord still made a comfortable income from the series.
Post “Adam-12” Career and Other Acting Roles
After “Adam-12” ended, McCord continued working in television and film. Some of his notable appearances include:
- “Galactica 1980” (1980) – He played Captain Troy in this short-lived sci-fi series.
- “Airplane II: The Sequel” (1982) – A comedic role in the sequel to the famous spoof film “Airplane!”
- “Farscape” (2000-2003) – He had a recurring role as Jack Crichton in this popular sci-fi series.
- Various TV guest roles – McCord appeared in shows like “JAG,” “Renegade,” and “Silk Stalkings.”
Even though none of these roles reached the popularity of “Adam-12,” they contributed to his overall net worth and kept him active in Hollywood.
Kent McCord’s Earnings and Financial Success
Salary from “Adam-12”
During the height of “Adam-12,” lead actors typically earned $2,500–$5,000 per episode, which was a respectable salary for the time. Over seven seasons and 174 episodes, McCord likely earned hundreds of thousands of dollars from the show.
Other Income Sources
Aside from acting, McCord also made money through:
- Syndication Royalties – Since “Adam-12” has been rerun on multiple networks, McCord may receive royalties from syndication. However, older contracts were not as lucrative as modern streaming deals.
- Convention Appearances – Like many classic TV stars, McCord has made appearances at fan conventions, which can be a good source of income.
- Investments and Business Ventures – While little is publicly known about his investments, many actors from his era diversified their earnings into real estate or business opportunities.
Kent McCord Net Worth in 2025
So, how much is Kent McCord’s net worth today?
Estimates suggest that kent mccord net worth is around $1 million to $2 million. While this might not seem as high as some modern TV stars, it is important to remember that actors from his era did not have the same financial opportunities as today’s celebrities.
McCord has maintained a steady income through acting, royalties, and appearances, ensuring financial stability throughout his career.
Legacy and Impact on Hollywood
Kent McCord remains a beloved figure in Hollywood, particularly for his role in “Adam-12.” His portrayal of a dedicated police officer set a standard for law enforcement portrayals on TV. He also played an active role in the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), advocating for better rights and working conditions for actors.
Even though he has stepped back from acting in recent years, McCord’s contributions to television are still remembered, and he continues to have a loyal fan base.
Conclusion
Kent McCord’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million, built through his successful acting career, royalties, and public appearances. While he may not have the vast wealth of modern-day Hollywood stars, his impact on television, particularly through “Adam-12,” is undeniable.
His legacy as an actor, his contributions to SAG, and his continued presence in the entertainment industry make him a respected figure in Hollywood history. Fans of classic television will always remember him as Officer Jim Reed, a role that defined his career and secured his place in TV history.
