Steve Guttenberg is a name that instantly brings a sense of nostalgia for movie lovers who grew up in the 80s. As one of the most recognizable faces of that decade, Guttenberg was a comedic and dramatic powerhouse, appearing in numerous box office hits. With a career that spans over four decades, Steve Guttenberg’s journey through Hollywood is one of perseverance, talent, and adaptability.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born Steven Robert Guttenberg on August 24, 1958, in Brooklyn, New York, Steve is now 66 years old. He was raised in a Jewish household by his parents Ann Iris, a surgical assistant, and Jerome Stanley Guttenberg, an electrical engineer. His upbringing took place in the Queens neighborhood of Flushing before the family later moved to North Massapequa.
Guttenberg’s love for acting started early. As a high school student, he attended a summer program at Julliard, where he had the opportunity to study under the legendary John Houseman. It wasn’t long before his talent began to shine. While still a teenager, he landed a role in an off-Broadway production of The Lion in Winter. After graduating from Plainedge High School in 1976, Guttenberg spent a year at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Albany before making the leap to California to chase his acting dreams.
In a move that feels like a classic Hollywood story, Guttenberg’s big break came quickly. Within weeks of his arrival in Los Angeles, he appeared in a commercial for Kentucky Fried Chicken, portraying none other than Colonel Sanders.
A Meteoric Rise to Fame
Guttenberg’s first screen credit came in the 1977 TV movie Something for Joey. Small roles followed, but it was the 1982 film Diner that catapulted him to stardom. Directed by Barry Levinson, Diner became a cult classic, and Guttenberg’s performance was widely praised. Interestingly, he once revealed that he took a $5,000 pay cut just to secure top billing over Mickey Rourke – a decision that paid off handsomely when the film became a commercial success.
From there, Guttenberg’s career skyrocketed. His role in 1984’s Police Academy turned him into a household name. As Carey Mahoney, Guttenberg brought humor and heart to the franchise, appearing in four installments between 1984 and 1987.
In 1985, he starred in Cocoon, further solidifying his status as a box office draw. Cocoon was another smash hit, combining science fiction with heartwarming storytelling. The following year, Guttenberg starred in Short Circuit, yet another beloved film of the 80s.
Perhaps his biggest financial success came in 1987 with Three Men and a Baby, where he starred alongside Tom Selleck and Ted Danson. The film was a massive hit, leading to a sequel, Three Men and a Little Lady, in 1990.
The 90s and Beyond: Staying Relevant
As the 80s ended, Guttenberg’s career saw ups and downs. Films like High Spirits and Cocoon: The Return didn’t perform as well as expected, but he continued to land significant roles. In 1991, he made his Broadway debut in Prelude to a Kiss, proving his talent extended beyond the screen.
Throughout the 90s, Guttenberg appeared in films like It Takes Two (with Kirstie Alley and the Olsen twins) and Tower of Terror. He embraced television as well, landing memorable roles, most notably as Mayor Woody Goodman in Veronica Mars (2004).
Guttenberg also expanded his creative horizons, directing and producing films such as P.S. Your Cat is Dead (2002). His work behind the scenes earned him recognition as a versatile talent in Hollywood.
Recent Years and Personal Life
Even in recent years, Guttenberg continues to stay active. He appeared on Law & Order, Party Down, and returned to Broadway in 2012. In 2020, he made guest appearances in The Goldbergs and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. His ability to poke fun at himself while taking on new projects has helped him remain relevant in an ever-changing industry.
On the personal front, Guttenberg was married to model Denise Bixler from 1988 until 1991. In 2014, he began dating reporter Emily Smith. The couple announced their engagement in 2016 and tied the knot on January 19, 2019.
Guttenberg’s estimated net worth today stands at $12 million. He and his wife split their time between an Upper West Side apartment in New York and a stunning Spanish-style mansion in Los Angeles’ Pacific Palisades neighborhood. Interestingly, they often rent out the LA property for $12,000 to $20,000 per month.
A Legacy of Giving Back
Beyond acting, Guttenberg has devoted significant time to philanthropy. He founded Guttenhouse, a housing complex for former foster children, and has been involved in numerous charitable initiatives. He worked with hurricane relief efforts after Katrina and has supported various animal rights organizations.
In 2011, Guttenberg received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to his enduring impact on the entertainment industry. He was also honored with the Tony Randall Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008.
Steve Guttenberg’s career is a reminder that staying true to oneself, seizing opportunities, and giving back can create a lasting legacy. Whether you know him as Mahoney from Police Academy or as one of the three dads from Three Men and a Baby, one thing is clear – Steve Guttenberg is an enduring Hollywood icon.
