If you’re searching for details on Richard Dreyfuss, you’ve come to the right place. This Academy Award-winning actor has captivated audiences for decades with his dynamic performances. Whether you’re curious about Richard Dreyfuss movies, his iconic role in Richard Dreyfuss + Jaws, how old is Richard Dreyfuss, his Richard Dreyfuss net worth, or even his thought-provoking Richard Dreyfuss book, this article dives deep. We’ll explore his life, career, and legacy in a way that’s engaging and easy to follow, drawing from reliable sources like Wikipedia and celebrity finance reports. By the end, you’ll have a full picture of this Hollywood legend and why he remains relevant today.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Richard Dreyfuss was born Richard Stephen Dreyfuss on October 29, 1947, in Brooklyn, New York. Raised in a Jewish family with roots in Russia and Poland, his childhood was marked by moves—from Queens to Europe, and finally to Los Angeles at age nine. His father, Norman, was an attorney and restaurateur who survived a World War II injury, while his mother, Geraldine, was a peace activist. These influences shaped Dreyfuss’s worldview, fostering a passion for social issues early on.
Dreyfuss discovered acting young, performing at community centers in Beverly Hills. He attended Beverly Hills High School and briefly studied at California State University, Northridge. As a conscientious objector during the Vietnam War, he worked in a hospital instead of serving in the military. This period honed his sense of duty, which later fueled his advocacy work.
Breakthrough Roles in the 1970s
Dreyfuss’s career kicked off with small TV roles in shows like Bewitched and Gunsmoke. His big-screen debut came in The Graduate (1967) with an uncredited part. But it was American Graffiti (1973) that put him on the map, playing Curt Henderson alongside Harrison Ford. The film, directed by George Lucas, grossed over $100 million and launched Dreyfuss into stardom.
Richard Dreyfuss Movies: A Stellar Filmography
Richard Dreyfuss movies span over 50 years, blending drama, comedy, and thrillers. He’s known for his energetic style and ability to portray complex characters. Highlights include The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz (1974), where he earned critical praise, and The Goodbye Girl (1977), which won him an Oscar for Best Actor—at age 30, making him the youngest winner at the time.
Other must-watch films:
- Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977): As Roy Neary, Dreyfuss captured the wonder of alien contact in this Steven Spielberg classic.
- Down and Out in Beverly Hills (1986): A comedic hit where he played a wealthy businessman.
- Mr. Holland’s Opus (1995): Earned him another Oscar nomination for his role as a dedicated music teacher.
- What About Bob? (1991): His feud with co-star Bill Murray added real tension to this comedy.
For a full list, check out his IMDb profile (external link: IMDb – Richard Dreyfuss).
Richard Dreyfuss + Jaws: The Role That Defined a Generation
No discussion of Richard Dreyfuss movies is complete without Richard Dreyfuss + Jaws. In this 1975 Spielberg thriller, Dreyfuss portrayed Matt Hooper, a sharp-witted oceanographer hunting a killer shark. The film, based on Peter Benchley’s novel, became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $470 million worldwide and earning Dreyfuss a BAFTA nomination.
Dreyfuss later reflected on the chaotic production, including mechanical shark issues and on-set tensions with Robert Shaw. “It was a disaster waiting to happen,” he said in interviews, yet it revolutionized summer blockbusters. To visualize the intensity, consider adding an infographic of Jaws’ box office impact or a video clip from the film’s famous “You’re gonna need a bigger boat” scene (suggested YouTube search: “Jaws best scenes”).
How Old is Richard Dreyfuss?
Fans often ask, “How old is Richard Dreyfuss?” Born on October 29, 1947, he is 77 years old as of October 13, 2025. He’ll turn 78 later this month. Despite his age, Dreyfuss remains active, appearing in recent projects like The Last Laugh (2019) on Netflix. His longevity in Hollywood speaks to his talent and resilience.
Richard Dreyfuss Net Worth
Estimates for Richard Dreyfuss net worth hover around $5 million in 2025. This figure comes from his extensive acting career, including hits like Jaws and Close Encounters, plus producing credits. Sources like Celebrity Net Worth report this consistently, though one estimate dips to $4 million. Factors include royalties, real estate, and advocacy work. For comparison, his peak earnings in the 1970s topped millions per film.
Beyond Acting: Richard Dreyfuss Book and Civic Work
Dreyfuss isn’t just an actor—he’s an author and activist. His Richard Dreyfuss book, One Thought Scares Me…: We Teach Our Children What We Wish Them to Know; We Don’t Teach Our Children What We Don’t Wish Them to Know (2022), argues for better civics education in schools. Published by Skyhorse, it’s a call to action on democracy and accountability. He also co-wrote The Two Georges (1995), an alternate history novel.
Through The Dreyfuss Civics Initiative, founded in 2006, he promotes teaching American values. “Civics is the glue that holds us together,” Dreyfuss has said. For readers interested, pick up the book on Amazon (external link: Amazon – One Thought Scares Me…).
Actionable Takeaways for Fans
- Watch his classics: Start with Jaws for thrills, then The Goodbye Girl for heart.
- Explore his advocacy: Visit The Dreyfuss Civics Initiative website (external link: Dreyfuss Civics) to learn how to support civics education.
- Read his work: Grab One Thought Scares Me… for insights into education reform.
Personal Life and Legacy
Dreyfuss has been married three times: to Jeramie Rain (1980s–1995, three children), Janelle Lacey (1999–2005), and Svetlana Erokhin (2006–present). He lives in San Diego and has openly discussed his bipolar disorder. Despite controversies, like his 2024 remarks at a Jaws screening, his legacy as an Oscar winner and advocate endures.
In summary, Richard Dreyfuss’s journey from Brooklyn kid to Hollywood icon inspires. Whether through his unforgettable movies or his push for better education, he continues to make waves. Dive into his films or book today—what’s your favorite Dreyfuss role? Share in the comments below!
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