
Gary Busey—love him or hate him—is one of Hollywood's most intriguing characters. His career has been marked by both incredible highs and devastating lows, and his financial journey is no exception. So, how much is Gary Busey worth in 2025? Let's dive in and explore the man behind the scenes, his earnings, and the challenges he's faced along the way.
From his breakout role in The Buddy Holly Story, where he earned critical acclaim, to his financial struggles and eventual bankruptcy, Busey's life has been anything but predictable. And while his career has taken some unexpected turns, his resilience and ability to adapt have kept him in the spotlight, even when things got tough.
In this article, we’ll unpack the highs and lows of Gary Busey's financial life, from his early successes to his battles with debt and how he's managed to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry. Whether you’re a fan of his work or just curious about the business side of Hollywood, this story is worth exploring.
Read also:Tommy Chongs Net Worth In 2025 The Story Behind His Success
Table of Contents
Gary Busey Quick Facts
FACT | DETAIL |
---|---|
Real Name | William Gary Busey |
Popular Name | Gary Busey |
Birth Date | June 29, 1944 |
Age | 80 years old (as of 02/20/2025) |
Birthplace | Goose Creek, Texas |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | Caucasian |
Education | N/A |
Marital Status | Divorced (3 times) |
Spouse | Tiani Warden (m. 1996–2001), Judy Helkenberg (m. 1968–1990) |
Children | Jake Busey, Alectra, Luke |
Dating | Steffanie Sampson |
Siblings | N/A |
Parents | Sadie Virginia (Arnett), a homemaker, and Delmar Lloyd Busey |
Height (meters) | 1.82 m |
Net Worth | Estimated $500,000 |
Source of Wealth | Acting, TV Appearances, Reality Shows |
What is Gary Busey's Net Worth in 2025?
As of 2025, Gary Busey's net worth is estimated to hover around $500,000. That’s a far cry from the kind of money you’d expect from someone who’s been in Hollywood for decades. Comparing him to other big names in the industry, like Mel Gibson or Danny Glover—his co-stars in the Lethal Weapon series—it’s clear that Busey hasn’t accumulated the same level of wealth. But that doesn’t mean he hasn’t had his fair share of successes.
Back in 2012, Gary filed for bankruptcy, citing debts exceeding $500,000. It was a tough blow for someone who had once been a leading man in some of the biggest films of the '80s and '90s. But like any true survivor, Busey found ways to keep his career alive. Reality TV became his lifeline, with appearances on shows like Celebrity Apprentice and Celebrity Big Brother. These gigs not only kept his name in the public eye but also provided much-needed income.
Let’s take a moment to compare Busey’s financial situation with some of his peers:
Read also:Hiro Mashimas Net Worth In 2025 A Closer Look At The Manga Legends Wealth
- Mel Gibson: A powerhouse in Hollywood with a net worth in the hundreds of millions.
- Danny Glover: Another star from Lethal Weapon, Glover has built a respectable fortune over the years.
- Jake Busey: Gary's own son, who’s carved out his own career as an actor.
- Patrick Swayze: Though no longer with us, Swayze left behind a legacy and a sizeable estate.
- Tom Sizemore: Another actor who’s faced financial struggles but has managed to stay in the game.
For more on the wealthiest actors in Hollywood, check out our list of the richest celebrities here.
Gary Busey's Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview


