Barry Williams is best known for his portrayal of Greg Brady in the hit TV show The Brady Bunch. This role made him a household name during the 1970s and helped shape his career in television, music, and theater. While The Brady Bunch initially struggled to achieve top ratings, its syndication success propelled Williams into pop culture stardom.
His enduring popularity has led to various ventures throughout the entertainment industry, contributing to his current net worth. In this article, we will discuss his early life, career trajectory, and personal life, offering a comprehensive look at the man behind the famous character.
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Early Life
Barry William Blenkhorn, known to fans as Barry Williams, was born on September 30, 1954, in Santa Monica, California. Growing up in Pacific Palisades, he was surrounded by the entertainment industry, which significantly influenced his path in life. His mother, Doris May Moore, encouraged him to pursue his passion for acting.
From a young age, Barry showed an interest in performing arts, participating in school plays and local theater productions. By age 13, he made his television debut in Dragnet in 1967, marking the beginning of his journey in show business.
Barry was the youngest of three sons in a family with English, Scottish, and German roots. His early exposure to acting came from both his environment and his determination. He admired his neighbor, actor Peter Graves, and even sought advice from him on how to succeed in Hollywood. This mentorship, along with his early acting lessons, helped Barry sharpen his skills and prepare for the big opportunities that would eventually come his way.
At the age of 11, he made a significant decision to change his last name from Blenkhorn to Williams, aiming for a more marketable name in the entertainment industry. His dedication to becoming a performer was clear early on, and by the time The Brady Bunch came along, Barry was ready for the limelight.
Career
Barry Williams’ career reached new heights in 1969 when he was cast as Greg Brady in The Brady Bunch. The show followed a blended family with six children and quickly became a beloved sitcom. Although it wasn’t a top-rated show during its initial run, its syndication turned The Brady Bunch into a cultural phenomenon. For Barry, Greg Brady was a career-defining role, making him one of the most recognizable faces on television.
However, the fame that came with being Greg Brady wasn’t always a smooth ride. The role typecast him in Hollywood, making it difficult to land other diverse acting roles. Despite these challenges, Barry continued to work in television, taking on guest-starring roles in shows like General Hospital, Highway to Heaven, and That ’70s Show. While many actors find it difficult to transition after a career-defining role, Barry adapted by expanding his talents into musical theater.
After The Brady Bunch ended in 1974, he shifted focus to the stage, performing in well-known musicals like Grease, West Side Story, and The Sound of Music. His versatility as an entertainer allowed him to stay relevant in the entertainment industry long after his sitcom days were over.
In 1988, Barry even made his Broadway debut in Romance/Romance. His ability to move between television, theater, and music has helped him maintain a long-lasting career, proving that he is far more than just Greg Brady.
Personal Life
Barry Williams’ personal life has been eventful, with several marriages and relationships throughout the years. He has been married three times. His first marriage to Diane Martin began in 1990 but ended in divorce just two years later in 1992. After that, in 1999, he married his second wife, Ella Mary Matt, with whom he had a son named Eric. However, their marriage also ended in divorce in 2005, although Barry remained an active part of his son’s life.
In 2012, Barry had a daughter, Samantha Rose, from a long-term relationship with Elizabeth Kennedy. Despite the end of their romantic involvement, Barry continued to co-parent Samantha. In 2017, Barry tied the knot for the third time with his current wife, Tina Mahina. The couple has been happily married and currently resides in Branson, Missouri.
Beyond marriage and relationships, Barry has also been open about some personal challenges. He discussed how drinking affected his life and career during a stint on Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew. Through it all, he has maintained a positive outlook, balancing his professional life with his role as a father and husband.
Net Worth
Barry Williams’ career has spanned over five decades, earning him recognition and financial success. As of 2023, his net worth is estimated to be around $6 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his diverse work in television, musical theater, music, and even as an author. While The Brady Bunch remains his most notable source of fame, Barry has built a lasting career by expanding into various entertainment ventures.
His earnings from The Brady Bunch came not just from the show’s initial run but also from its syndication, merchandise, and reunion specials. Additionally, his involvement in musical theater tours and his Broadway debut in Romance/Romance added to his financial portfolio. Barry also released a best-selling autobiography titled Growing Up Brady: I Was A Teenage Greg, which further solidified his public presence and contributed to his income.
Real estate investments have also played a role in Barry’s financial standing. Notably, his family’s Malibu beachfront property, which was once rented out for significant sums, sold for over $5.8 million in 2019, adding to his wealth. Today, Barry continues to perform with his musical group, Barry Williams and the Traveliers, which helps maintain his financial stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
What is Barry Williams’ net worth?
Barry Williams has an estimated net worth of $6 million as of 2024. His wealth has come from his acting career, particularly his role on The Brady Bunch, as well as musical theater performances and book royalties.
How old is Barry Williams?
Barry Williams was born on September 30, 1954, making him 69 years old as of 2024.
Is Barry Williams married?
Yes, Barry Williams is currently married to Tina Mahina. The couple tied the knot on July 9, 2017. Before this, Williams was married twice—first to Diane Martin from 1990 to 1992, and then to Eila Mary Matt from 1999 to 2005.
Does Barry Williams have children?
Yes, Barry Williams has two children. He has a son, Brandon Eric Williams, born in 2003 from his second marriage, and a daughter, Samantha Rose Williams, born in 2012 from his relationship with Elizabeth Kennedy.
Where does Barry Williams live now?
Barry Williams currently resides in Branson, Missouri, where he performs with his musical group, Barry Williams and the Traveliers.
Wrapping Up
Barry Williams’ career and personal life reflect both resilience and adaptability. From his early days as Greg Brady on The Brady Bunch to his ventures in musical theater and music, Barry has shown a remarkable ability to reinvent himself. He has maintained a steady presence in the entertainment world despite facing challenges like typecasting and personal struggles. His estimated net worth of $6 million highlights the financial success that followed his hard work and dedication across multiple fields.
