What was Patrick Swayze’s Net Worth and Salary?
Patrick Swayze, a beloved American actor, had a net worth of $40 million at the time of his 2009 death, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood’s most recognizable faces. Known for his iconic roles in films such as “Dirty Dancing,” “Point Break,” and “Ghost,” Swayze was a multi-talented artist who also excelled on Broadway and as a singer and dancer. As a frequent lead in romantic films, he also gained a reputation as a sex symbol. Despite his success, Swayze passed away at the relatively young age of 57, leaving behind a career that spanned decades.
Early Life and Training
Patrick Wayne Swayze was born on August 18th of 1952 in Houston, Texas. His mother was a dance choreographer and instructor. He was raised alongside four siblings, including brother Don Swayze who also became an actor, in the Oak Forest neighborhood of Houston.
During his youth, he became an avid dancer, ice skater, athlete, and martial artist. Patrick was hoping to receive a football scholarship before a knee injury ended his career.
In 1972, the 20-year-old Swayze moved to New York City to receive formal dance training. He attended Harness Ballet School and Joffrey Ballet School.
Patrick Swayze’s Career Highlights
Patrick Swayze began his entertainment career as a dancer with the Disney Theatrical Group before making his Broadway debut in “Grease.” He went on to appear in a number of TV shows and films, including “The Outsiders” and “Youngblood.” However, it was his starring role in the low-budget film “Dirty Dancing” that propelled him to fame in 1987. Swayze contributed one song to the film’s soundtrack and continued to find success throughout the 90s with roles in “Ghost” and “Point Break.” In the 2000s, he appeared in “Donnie Darko,” continued his stage acting career, and appeared in films like “Waking Up in Reno” and “One Last Dance.”
Patrick Swayze’s Marriage to Lisa Niemi
Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi got married in 1975 and stayed together until Swayze’s death. The couple first met when Niemi was just 14 years old, and Swayze was 18.
Patrick Swayze’s Struggle with Alcoholism
Patrick suffered from alcoholism throughout the 90s, and he eventually recovered after attending rehab. After receiving treatment, Swayze took a hiatus from the entertainment industry and focused on raising horses on his ranches in California and New Mexico.
One particularly noteworthy incident occurred when Patrick was forced to make an emergency landing while flying a plane with his dogs. Although Swayze was unharmed, numerous witnesses stated that he appeared to be very intoxicated. Some witnesses even stated that Patrick asked for help as he tried to hide a bottle of wine and a 30-pack of beer from the wreckage. However, Swayze never faced criminal charges.
It was determined that the alcohol was stored in a compartment that was inaccessible during flight, and the cause of his intoxication was mostly carbon monoxide poisoning from the plane’s engine and excessive cigarette smoking.
Patrick Swayze’s Battle with Pancreatic Cancer
In 2007, Swayze was diagnosed with late-stage pancreatic cancer after complaining of stomach pains. He underwent chemotherapy and experimental anti-cancer drugs at Stanford University Medical Center and initially responded well to treatments.
Despite receiving surgery to remove the cancerous part of his stomach and making public appearances, the cancer later reappeared in his liver. Swayze initially denied reports of the spread but eventually admitted to having a “tiny” cancerous growth in his liver.
In 2009, Swayze’s condition worsened, and he was hospitalized with pneumonia, a complication of his chemotherapy treatments. Despite receiving treatment for cancer, Swayze continued to smoke cigarettes, having smoked three packs a day at one point in his life.
Patrick Swayze Dies at 57
Actor Patrick Swayze has died at the age of 57, 20 months after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. His publicist confirmed that the official cause of death was due to the cancer. Swayze was known for his roles in popular films such as “Dirty Dancing” and “Ghost.”
Patrick Swayze’s Estate Sells for $2.9 Million
In 2015, Patrick Swayze’s estate in the San Fernando Valley sold for $2.9 million in an off-market deal. The 3,000-square-foot residence sits on a 4.5-acre plot of land and includes a swimming pool, horse corral, hot walker, and additional buildings. The proceeds of the sale reportedly went to Swayze’s wife, Lisa Niemi.
