Bob Gunton is a renowned American character actor best known for playing Warden Norton in The Shawshank Redemption (1994). With a career spanning over five decades, he has appeared in numerous films, television series, and stage productions. Beyond acting, Gunton has a fascinating background, from his early life to his work on Broadway and Hollywood. Let’s take a deep dive into Bob Gunton’s life, career, and net worth.

Quick Bio

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Robert Patrick Gunton Jr.
Birthdate	November 15, 1945
Age	79 years old (as of 2024)
Birthplace	Santa Monica, California, USA
Nationality	American
Height	6 feet (1.85 m)
Profession	Actor, Voice Actor, Soldier
Years Active	1971–present
Net Worth	$2 Million
Famous Role	Warden Norton in The Shawshank Redemption

What Is Bob Gunton’s Net Worth?

Bob Gunton has an estimated net worth of $2 million. This wealth comes from his extensive acting career in film, television, and theater. While he is not among the wealthiest Hollywood actors, his consistent work in major productions has ensured a stable financial career.

Aside from acting, Gunton has also earned income through voice acting, royalties, and stage performances. Let’s explore how his career in Hollywood and beyond has contributed to his wealth.

Shawshank Royalties: How Much Did Bob Gunton Earn?

Bob Gunton’s most famous role is Warden Samuel Norton in the 1994 classic The Shawshank Redemption. The film, directed by Frank Darabont, became a cult classic and continues to generate revenue through TV syndication, streaming platforms, and DVD sales.

While Gunton’s initial salary for The Shawshank Redemption is unknown, he has mentioned in interviews that royalties from the film still bring in steady income. Since Shawshank is frequently aired on television, actors like Gunton continue to earn residuals from it.

Early Life and Education

Bob Gunton was born on November 15, 1945, in Santa Monica, California. He grew up in a Catholic household, where he attended Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana.

After high school, Gunton went to the University of California, Irvine, where he initially pursued a career in law before switching to acting. His passion for performance led him to explore stage acting and eventually Broadway.

Interestingly, before becoming an actor, Gunton served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. His military background instilled in him a strong work ethic and discipline, which later helped him in his acting career.

Stage Career: Broadway and Theater Success

Bob Gunton began his career on the Broadway stage, where he received critical acclaim for his performances.

One of his most notable roles was playing Juan Perón in the original Broadway production of Evita (1979), where he starred alongside Patti LuPone and Mandy Patinkin. His portrayal earned him a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical.

Other Broadway and theater highlights include:

• Sweeney Todd – Played the role of Judge Turpin
• Big River – Nominated for another Tony Award
• King of Hearts – Featured in this notable production

His strong, authoritative voice and commanding stage presence made him a go-to actor for serious, dramatic roles.

Film Career: Bob Gunton in Hollywood

Bob Gunton transitioned from Broadway to Hollywood in the 1980s and quickly became a familiar face in movies. His tall stature, intense expressions, and deep voice made him perfect for playing authority figures, villains, and military characters.

Some of his most famous films include:

• The Shawshank Redemption (1994) – Warden Samuel Norton
• JFK (1991) – Played Earl Warren
• Glory (1989) – Portrayed Gen. Harker
• Patch Adams (1998) – Dean Walcott
• Argo (2012) – Played Secretary of State Cyrus Vance

Though often cast as a strict or villainous character, Gunton has shown great versatility, appearing in comedy, drama, and action films.

Television Career: Popular TV Roles

Bob Gunton has also had an extensive career in television, appearing in dozens of popular TV shows. His ability to bring depth and intensity to his characters made him a sought-after actor for guest and recurring roles.

Some of his notable TV appearances include:

• 24 – Played Ethan Kanin, Chief of Staff and Secretary of State
• Daredevil (2015-2018) – Portrayed Leland Owlsley, a financial expert for Kingpin
• Desperate Housewives – Featured in a recurring role
• Star Trek: The Next Generation – Guest appearance as Captain Maxwell
• Law & Order Franchise – Appeared in multiple episodes

His work in TV has helped him remain a consistent presence in Hollywood even as his film roles have slowed down.

Personal Life: Family and Relationships

Bob Gunton has been married twice. His first marriage was to Annie McGreevey, but the couple later divorced. In 2006, he married Carey Pitts, and they have been together ever since.

While Gunton keeps his personal life private, he is known for his dedication to his craft and love for theater. Despite his serious on-screen roles, those who know him personally describe him as warm and humorous.

Real Estate and Lifestyle

Bob Gunton has invested in real estate, owning a home in California. While he does not flaunt his wealth, his real estate investments suggest a comfortable lifestyle.

Unlike many Hollywood celebrities, Gunton prefers to stay out of the spotlight and focus on his work rather than luxury. His financial discipline has helped him maintain steady wealth despite not being a major box-office star.

Final Thoughts on Bob Gunton’s Legacy

Bob Gunton is a versatile and respected actor whose contributions to film, television, and theater have left a lasting impact. His portrayal of Warden Norton in The Shawshank Redemption remains one of the most memorable villain performances in cinema history.

With a career spanning over five decades, Gunton has proven that strong character actors are just as important as Hollywood’s leading stars. Though he may not always be in the spotlight, his work continues to entertain audiences worldwide.

Conclusion

Bob Gunton is a versatile and highly respected character actor whose contributions to film, television, and theater have made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Best known for his chilling portrayal of Warden Norton in The Shawshank Redemption, Gunton has built a career playing authoritative and complex roles that leave a strong impression on audiences.

Beyond Hollywood, his Broadway success, military service, and dedication to his craft showcase his diverse talents and strong work ethic. Despite not being a leading man, Gunton’s performances have cemented his legacy as one of the most memorable character actors in the business.

FAQs

What is Bob Gunton’s most famous role?
Bob Gunton is best known for playing Warden Samuel Norton in The Shawshank Redemption (1994), a role that made him a household name.

How much is Bob Gunton’s net worth?
As of 2024, Bob Gunton’s net worth is estimated to be $2 million, primarily from his film, TV, and theater career.

Did Bob Gunton serve in the military?
Yes, Bob Gunton served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, which helped shape his discipline and acting career.

Has Bob Gunton won any awards?
While he hasn’t won a major Hollywood award, he received Tony Award nominations for his performances in Broadway musicals like Evita and Big River.

What TV shows has Bob Gunton appeared in?
Bob Gunton has appeared in popular TV shows like 24, Daredevil, Desperate Housewives, and Star Trek: The Next Generation.

Is Bob Gunton still acting?
Yes, Bob Gunton is still active in film, television, and voice acting, continuing his decades-long career in the entertainment industry.

Who is Bob Gunton married to?
Bob Gunton is married to Carey Pitts, whom he wed in 2006. He was previously married to Annie McGreevey.

Does Bob Gunton still earn royalties from Shawshank Redemption?
Yes, Bob Gunton continues to earn royalties from The Shawshank Redemption due to its ongoing popularity on TV and streaming platforms.

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