Terry Wayne Kiser, best known for his iconic role as Bernie Lomax in Weekend at Bernie’s, has built a remarkable career in Hollywood spanning decades. At 86 years old, this American actor and comedian has left an enduring mark on film and television, combining memorable performances with smart financial planning.
From early television appearances to major box office hits, Kiser’s career highlights reflect both talent and versatility. In this article, we explore Terry Kiser net worth, examining his earnings, investments, residual income, and long-term financial strategies. Readers will gain insight into his career trajectory, personal life, and the factors that have contributed to his economic prosperity.
Terry Kiser Wiki
| Fact | Detail |
| Full Name | Terry Wayne Kiser |
| Known As | Bernie Lomax (Weekend at Bernie’s) |
| Date of Birth | August 1, 1939 |
| Age | 86 years (as of 2026) |
| Place of Birth | Omaha, Nebraska, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) |
| Profession | Actor, Comedian, Producer |
| Famous Roles | Weekend at Bernie’s, Three’s Company, Night Court |
| Terry Kiser Net Worth | $3 million – $5 million |
| Income Sources | Acting, Residuals, Royalties, Licensing, Investments, Real Estate |
| Career Span | Over 50 years in film and television |
| Notable Career Highlight | Cult classic role as Bernie Lomax |
| Family | Married (details private), has a daughter |
| Private Lifestyle | Low public profile, focuses on family and financial security |
Who is Terry Kiser?
Terry Wayne Kiser, born August 1, 1939, in Omaha, Nebraska, is an accomplished American actor, comedian, and producer. Known primarily for his role as Bernie Lomax in Weekend at Bernie’s, Kiser has also appeared in popular television series like Three’s Company and Night Court. Over the years, he has earned recognition for his versatility in comedic roles and his ability to leave a lasting impression on audiences. His Hollywood career spans decades, encompassing both film and television, which has enabled him to accumulate significant earnings and maintain a respected presence in the entertainment industry. Beyond acting, Kiser has pursued smart investments and income-generating ventures that have strengthened his financial portfolio.
Terry Kiser Net Worth Overview
As of 2026, Terry Kiser’s estimated net worth ranges between $3 million to $5 million. This wealth reflects not only his acting career earnings but also the financial wisdom applied through careful asset diversification. His income sources include film salaries, television appearances, royalties, licensing deals, and strategic real estate and stock market holdings. Additionally, residual income from syndicated reruns, streaming platforms, and promotional appearances contributes to a steady passive income stream. Kiser’s financial strategy demonstrates long-term stability, emphasizing portfolio growth, financial security, and economic prosperity. This net worth places him among mid-tier Hollywood actors who have successfully balanced career fame with sustainable wealth management.
Financial Breakdown
| Income Source | Description | Estimated Contribution |
| Acting Career | Film and television salaries, including major roles and guest appearances | 40% |
| Residual Income | Royalties from reruns, syndication, and streaming platforms | 25% |
| Investments | Stock market holdings, real estate investments, and other ventures | 20% |
| Licensing & Endorsements | Promotional appearances and licensing deals | 10% |
| Miscellaneous | Public appearances, fan conventions, and other minor income sources | 5% |
Famed Roles and Box Office Earnings
Terry Kiser’s Hollywood career is defined by his ability to create memorable comedic performances. His breakthrough came with Weekend at Bernie’s, a cult classic in which he played the titular character, Bernie Lomax. The film’s success provided him with substantial box office earnings and established him as a recognizable face in comedy.
Following that, he made appearances in other prominent productions:
- Three’s Company – a popular sitcom where Kiser’s guest roles highlighted his comedic timing
- Night Court – further showcasing his television acting versatility
- Other films – spanning from drama to comedy, adding to his overall career earnings
Kiser’s ability to secure recurring roles and participate in commercially successful projects contributed significantly to his Hollywood career earnings, forming a foundation for his residual income and long-term financial growth.
Enduring Legacy and Residual Income
One of the most important factors in Terry Kiser’s financial stability is his residual income. Syndication revenue from reruns, licensing deals, and streaming platforms ensures that his earnings continue decades after his initial work. This enduring legacy not only reflects the cultural relevance of his performances but also serves as a model of passive income streams for other actors. Additionally, fan engagement through conventions and promotional appearances reinforces his influence in pop culture while supporting financial stability. His approach highlights the value of combining immediate acting career earnings with long-term income planning and wealth management strategies.
Early Life and Background
Terry Kiser grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, in a supportive environment that encouraged creativity and education. His early exposure to theater sparked a lifelong passion for acting, leading him to pursue formal training and ultimately a career in Hollywood. Understanding his roots provides context for his work ethic and the strategic decisions he made in both his professional and financial life.
Education and Career Beginnings
College and Theatrical Training
Kiser attended local colleges where he honed his acting skills, participating in theater productions that laid the foundation for his acting career. His formal training equipped him with the techniques and confidence needed to navigate the competitive entertainment industry.
Move to New York City
After completing his education, Kiser relocated to New York City, a hub for aspiring actors. There, he began performing in theater and television, gradually building a reputation for his versatility and comedic talent. This move marked the beginning of his Hollywood career earnings and set the stage for his eventual financial portfolio growth.
Age, Height, and Physical Appearance
Terry Kiser, born August 1, 1939, is 86 years old and stands at 5 ft 11 in (180 cm). His physical presence contributed to his screen appeal, enabling him to take on roles that required both comedic timing and visual impact. These attributes complemented his acting career and contributed to his overall brand in Hollywood.
Family and Personal Life
Marriage and Children
Kiser has maintained a private lifestyle, focusing on family and personal well-being. He has been married and is known to have a daughter, but he keeps details of his personal life away from the public eye. This discretion has allowed him to enjoy personal privacy while maintaining his professional reputation.
Terry Kiser Daughter
Though little is publicly known, Kiser’s daughter represents a key aspect of his private life. He has emphasized family values and financial security, ensuring a stable environment for his loved ones.
Career Highlights
Early Television Appearances
Kiser’s early work in television laid the foundation for his acting career. Guest roles in popular series provided initial Hollywood career earnings and exposure to broader audiences.
Rise to Fame with Weekend at Bernie’s
The role of Bernie Lomax in Weekend at Bernie’s catapulted Kiser to fame, becoming a defining moment in his career. The film’s box office earnings and subsequent syndication have contributed significantly to his net worth estimate.
Terry Kiser in Three’s Company
Guest appearances in Three’s Company allowed Kiser to showcase his comedic talent and expand his professional repertoire, reinforcing his status as a versatile Hollywood actor.
Other Notable Roles
Kiser’s other roles include appearances in Night Court and a variety of comedic films, contributing further to his overall earnings and residual income.
Terry Kiser Movies List
Below is a summary of key films featuring Kiser:
- Weekend at Bernie’s
- Weekend at Bernie’s II
- Repossessed
- The Last Married Couple in America
- Other supporting and cameo roles
This list highlights the breadth of his career and the consistency of his Hollywood career earnings over the years.
Influence and Legacy
Impact on Comedy and Hollywood
Terry Kiser’s comedic roles have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. His portrayal of Bernie Lomax became iconic, influencing generations of actors and comedians.
Fan Engagement and Cultural Relevance
Kiser’s work continues to resonate with fans through streaming platforms, reruns, and pop culture references. This enduring cultural relevance contributes to his residual income and overall financial security.
Lifestyle and Habits
Kiser maintains a private lifestyle that prioritizes family, financial planning, and personal well-being. His approach to wealth management emphasizes portfolio growth, asset diversification, and long-term stability, offering lessons in financial wisdom for peers and aspiring actors alike.
Awards and Recognitions
While Kiser has not pursued major award campaigns, his contributions to comedic acting have earned him recognition and respect within Hollywood. His consistent work, cultural impact, and fan appreciation highlight a career marked by dedication and creative excellence.
Social Media Presence
Terry Kiser maintains a low profile online, focusing instead on traditional fan engagement through conventions and interviews. This approach aligns with his private lifestyle and long-term financial strategy, prioritizing stability over fleeting fame.
Terry Kiser Now: What is He Doing Today?
As of 2026, Kiser continues to enjoy a comfortable life supported by residual income streams, smart investments, and the legacy of his acting career. Though retired from regular acting, he remains an enduring figure in Hollywood comedy, with his work continuing to generate earnings through licensing, syndication, and streaming platforms.
Conclusion
Terry Kiser’s journey from Omaha, Nebraska, to Hollywood stardom exemplifies a career defined by talent, strategic planning, and financial acumen. With a net worth estimate of $3 million to $5 million, his earnings reflect a blend of acting career success, residual income, and investment portfolio growth. From iconic roles like Bernie Lomax in Weekend at Bernie’s to television appearances and smart wealth management, Kiser has created a lasting legacy in both Hollywood and personal finance. His life story offers valuable lessons on career longevity, economic prosperity, and maintaining financial security through diversified income streams.
Clara Ella writer is known for her kind heart, gentle spirit, and love for spreading encouragement through words. With a passion for faith, positivity, and helping others, she creates uplifting reflections that inspire warmth, hope, and emotional healing. Rooted in real-life experiences and compassionate insight, Clara’s writing connects deeply with readers seeking comfort, light, and meaningful moments in everyday life.