If you grew up watching Leave It to Beaver, you likely remember Jerry Mathers as the lovable Theodore “Beaver” Cleaver. But have you ever wondered how much this child star turned seasoned actor is worth today? Let’s take a closer look at Jerry Mathers’ net worth, his journey from child actor to financial success, and the factors that have contributed to his wealth.
Comprehensive Biography Table:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gerald Patrick Mathers |
| Stage Name | Jerry Mathers |
| Date of Birth | June 2, 1948 |
| Place of Birth | Sioux City, Iowa, USA |
| Age (as of 2025) | 76 years old |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) |
| Profession | Actor, Voice Actor, Public Speaker |
| Known For | Theodore ‘Beaver’ Cleaver in ‘Leave It to Beaver’ (1957–1963) |
| Early Career Start | Appeared in a PET Milk commercial at age 2 |
| Education | University of California, Berkeley – Bachelor’s in Philosophy (1973) |
| Military Service | Served in the U.S. Air Force Reserve during the Vietnam War era |
| First Marriage | Diana Patt (1974–1977) |
| Second Marriage | Rhonda Gehring (1977–1997) |
| Children from Second Marriage | Three children |
| Third Marriage | Teresa Modnick (married in 2011) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated between $3 million and $7 million |
| Primary Income Sources | Acting royalties, public speaking engagements, licensing deals, real estate investments |
| Notable Roles | ‘Leave It to Beaver’, ‘The New Leave It to Beaver’, ‘Hairspray’ (Broadway debut) |
| Autobiography | ‘…And Jerry Mathers as The Beaver’ (1998) |
| Awards & Honors | Young Artist Award for Former Child Star Lifetime Achievement (1984) |
| Health | Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in the early 1990s |
| Current Residence | Santa Clarita, California, USA |
What Is Jerry Mathers’ Net Worth?
As of 2025, Jerry Mathers’ net worth is estimated to be between $3 million and $7 million. This range reflects his enduring popularity, smart financial decisions, and continued involvement in the entertainment industry. These estimates are based on publicly available information such as acting roles, endorsements, investments, and other known income sources. Precise, verified financial data is rarely public, so these figures are estimations and can vary between different reporting websites.
Early Life and Breakthrough Role
Born on June 2, 1948, in Sioux City, Iowa, Jerry Mathers began his career at the tender age of two, appearing in a department store advertisement. His big break came when he was cast as the young Theodore “Beaver” Cleaver in the iconic television sitcom Leave It to Beaver, which aired from 1957 to 1963. The show was a massive success, and Mathers’ portrayal of the curious and mischievous Beaver made him a household name.
Earnings from ‘Leave It to Beaver’
Mathers’ role in Leave It to Beaver not only earned him fame but also financial benefits. He was the first child actor to secure a deal that included a percentage of the show’s merchandising revenue. This forward-thinking arrangement allowed him to earn royalties long after the show ended, contributing significantly to his net worth.
Diversification into Other Ventures
After his acting career, Mathers diversified his income streams. He ventured into real estate development and worked as a commercial loan officer at a bank. These business endeavors, combined with his acting royalties, have helped him maintain and grow his wealth over the years.
Public Speaking and Advocacy
Beyond acting and business, Jerry Mathers has been active in public speaking and advocacy. He has spoken at various events and has been involved in charitable causes, further solidifying his public image and contributing to his financial success.
Real Estate Holdings
Mathers owns a residence in Santa Clarita, California. While specific details about his properties are private, owning real estate in California, particularly in desirable areas, can be a lucrative investment, adding to his overall net worth.
Comparing with ‘Leave It to Beaver’ Co-Stars
When comparing Jerry Mathers’ net worth to his co-stars from Leave It to Beaver, it’s notable that Tony Dow, who played Wally Cleaver, had a net worth of $4 million at the time of his death in 2022. This comparison highlights the varying financial outcomes for child stars, influenced by factors like career choices, business ventures, and personal decisions.
Final Thoughts
Jerry Mathers’ net worth is a testament to his talent, foresight, and adaptability. His estimated net worth of $3 million to $7 million reflects not just his acting career but also his smart investments and business acumen. Whether you’re a fan of Leave It to Beaver or simply interested in the financial trajectories of former child stars, Jerry Mathers’ story is both inspiring and informative.
