Birth Name
David Lemuel Keith
Birth Date
1954 May 8
Birth Location
Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
Height
180 cm
Professions
IMDb ID
Wikipedia Article
# David Keith
David Keith is a prominent American actor and director known for his versatile performances in film and television. Born on May 8, 1954, in Knoxville, Tennessee, USA, Keith stands at a height of 180 cm. His career spans several decades, during which he has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, showcasing his talent across a variety of genres. He is notable for his compelling portrayals in both leading and supporting roles, establishing a reputation as a reliable and skilled performer.
Quick Facts: David Keith, born on May 8, 1954, in Knoxville, Tennessee, USA, is 180 cm tall. He is an actor and director known for his work in film and television, active since the late 1970s and recognized by audiences for his engaging performances.
Early Life and Education
David Keith was raised in a family that fostered a deep appreciation for the arts. His father, who worked as a businessman, and his mother, a homemaker, supported their son’s early interests in acting and performance. Growing up in Knoxville, Keith was exposed to various forms of entertainment from an early age, and he frequently participated in school plays and community theater performances. His passion for acting was evident, and he often found solace in the world of storytelling.
Keith attended the University of Tennessee, where he initially pursued a degree in drama. His time at the university allowed him to hone his craft and develop a solid foundation in acting techniques. It was during these formative years that he cultivated a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of character development, qualities that would later serve him well in his professional career.
Career
David Keith's career in the entertainment industry began in the late 1970s. His early roles were often small, but he quickly began to attract attention for his natural talent and charisma. His first notable performance came with a role in the 1980 film "The Great Santini," where he played the character of Ben Meechum, a troubled young man whose relationship with his strict father is put to the test. This role marked the beginning of his ascent in Hollywood, allowing him to showcase his dramatic abilities.
During the 1980s, Keith continued to build his filmography with a series of diverse roles. He starred in "Firestarter," a film based on Stephen King's novel, where he played the character Andy McGee, a father with psychokinetic abilities. This film not only solidified his status as a leading man but also introduced him to a broader audience. His ability to portray complex characters with emotional depth resonated with viewers and critics alike.
The peak of Keith's career came in the late 1980s and early 1990s when he starred in several successful films, including "An Officer and a Gentleman" and "The Curse." His performances in these films were widely praised, earning him nominations and accolades from various film organizations. Additionally, Keith ventured into television, landing roles in popular series that showcased his versatility as an actor.
In the years that followed, David Keith expanded his career beyond acting by taking on producing and directing roles. He directed the 1997 film "The Last Man Club," which highlighted his creative vision and ability to tell compelling stories from behind the camera. His willingness to explore different facets of filmmaking demonstrated his passion for the industry and his desire to contribute to the art form in various capacities.
In recent years, Keith has continued to work in film and television, taking on roles that reflect his evolving interests and experiences. He has embraced the opportunities to work with new filmmakers and collaborate on innovative projects, ensuring that he remains relevant within the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood.
Personal Life
Beyond his professional endeavors, David Keith has maintained a relatively private personal life. He has been married twice and has children, balancing the demands of family life with his career in the spotlight. Known for his down-to-earth personality, Keith is regarded as approachable and genuine, traits that have endeared him to both fans and colleagues.
In his free time, Keith enjoys a variety of hobbies, including outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. His love for nature often provides him with a sense of tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the entertainment industry. He is also an advocate for various charitable causes, often using his platform to raise awareness and support for those in need.
Keith's public image is that of a dedicated and hardworking artist who values authenticity. His commitment to his craft and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level have solidified his status as a respected figure in Hollywood.
Appearance
David Keith is characterized by his tall stature and commanding presence, standing at 180 cm. Over the years, his appearance has evolved as he has taken on a variety of roles. He is known for his expressive blue eyes and strong facial features, which lend themselves well to the diverse characters he portrays.
Throughout his career, Keith has sported various hairstyles, from longer locks during his early career to shorter, more refined styles in his later years. His hairstyles often reflect the characters he embodies, allowing him to immerse himself fully in each role. As for tattoos, Keith has been known to keep a relatively clean appearance, focusing more on his acting than any body art.
Filmography Overview
David Keith is known for his work in a diverse range of projects, from feature films to television series. He has built a reputation for portraying complex characters that resonate with audiences, often bringing emotional depth and nuance to his performances. His filmography includes dramas, thrillers, and action films, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Keith's ability to transition between genres has allowed him to maintain a dynamic career, appealing to various audiences. He is particularly recognized for his roles in films that explore themes of family, conflict, and personal struggle, often drawing on his own experiences to inform his performances.
Awards and Achievements
Throughout his career, David Keith has received recognition for his contributions to film and television. His performances have garnered critical acclaim, and he has been nominated for several awards, including prestigious accolades within the film industry. While he may not have received an extensive collection of awards, his work has been celebrated by fans and peers alike, solidifying his status as a respected actor.
Keith's legacy is not solely defined by awards but rather by the impact he has made on audiences through his performances. His ability to evoke emotion and connect with viewers has left a lasting impression, ensuring that his work will be remembered for years to come.
Legacy
David Keith's influence on cinema and culture is notable. His performances have inspired a generation of actors and filmmakers, demonstrating the power of storytelling through acting. Keith's commitment to his craft and his willingness to tackle challenging roles have made him a role model for aspiring performers who seek to make their mark in the industry.
What sets David Keith apart is not just his talent but also his authenticity. He has managed to navigate the complexities of Hollywood while staying true to himself, creating a legacy that is both impactful and enduring. His contributions to film and television continue to resonate with audiences, making him a significant figure in the history of American cinema.
Net Worth
When it comes to estimating the net worth of David Keith, the seasoned actor whose name might not pop up in every mainstream conversation, we can look at a variety of external sources to get a sense of his financial standing. Websites like Celebrity Net Worth, WealthyGorilla, and TheRichest provide numbers ranging from $1 million to $3 million. However, these estimates often vary significantly due to different methodologies and the fact that they may rely on outdated information or incomplete data. For instance, some sites might factor in only his earnings from film roles while ignoring potential revenue streams from television appearances, endorsements, or other ventures.
Additionally, it’s essential to recognize the limitations inherent in these platforms. They might not fully account for the fluctuations in an actor's career, such as the impacts of a recent resurgence in popularity or the effects of long gaps between projects. These estimates are often snapshots in time, failing to capture the entire picture of an actor's financial journey. So, while these figures provide a ballpark, they may not represent the full story behind David Keith's earnings and assets.
Now, let’s dive into the logic of estimating an actor's earnings, particularly in relation to David Keith's filmography. In Hollywood, the payment scale for supporting actors has changed dramatically over the decades. During the 1980s and 1990s, when Keith was most active in film, the compensation for a supporting role could range significantly. For example, a smaller part in a blockbuster might yield anywhere from $100,000 to $500,000, while a more prominent role might secure up to a million or even more, depending on the film's budget and the actor's billing position.
Film budgets are crucial in this discussion. A higher-budget film typically allows for larger salaries, while independent films with smaller budgets can often only afford to pay their stars in the low six figures or even less. David Keith has starred in a variety of films, from big-budget affairs to indie projects, and his role size in each project has undeniably influenced his negotiating power. If he was billed as a lead or even a prominent supporting actor, he likely had more leverage to negotiate a better deal.
Television roles also play a significant part in an actor's income. For a seasoned actor like Keith, appearing in a TV series can bring in decent money, especially if the show runs multiple seasons. Compensation per episode can vary widely, but for someone with Keith's level of experience and recognition, rates could hover around $20,000 to $50,000 per episode for supporting roles, depending on the show's popularity and network.
With all this in mind, let's summarize David Keith's major films, their approximate budgets, and my estimated earnings for him in each film:
| Film Title | Approximate Budget | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Officer and a Gentleman | $6 million | $300,000 |
| The Great Santini | $4 million | $200,000 |
| Firestarter | $15 million | $500,000 |
| White of the Eye | $1.5 million | $125,000 |
| Behind Enemy Lines | $40 million | $600,000 |
| Green Lantern | $200 million | $400,000 |
Now, let’s discuss how I arrived at these estimates. In "An Officer and a Gentleman," which came out in 1982, Keith played a memorable role that contributed significantly to the film's success. Given the film's budget of $6 million and its eventual box office success, I estimate his earnings at around $300,000, reflecting a typical rate for a supporting actor in an acclaimed film during that period.
In "The Great Santini," released in 1979, his role was pivotal, and with a budget of $4 million, I estimate he earned about $200,000. This film was a critical success that likely offered him a solid paycheck, though the budget was modest by today's standards.
"Firestarter," a Stephen King adaptation released in 1984, had a budget of $15 million, and I estimate Keith earned around $500,000 for his role. The film's popularity and the involvement of high-profile actors likely allowed him to negotiate a decent salary.
"White of the Eye," while not as well-known, had a budget of $1.5 million. I estimate he made about $125,000, which aligns with the lower compensation often seen in indie films of that era.
In "Behind Enemy Lines," released in 2001 with a budget of $40 million, I place Keith's earnings at around $600,000. The film's sizable budget and star-studded cast likely provided him with a substantial payday.
Finally, for "Green Lantern," which had a staggering budget of $200 million, his earnings are estimated at $400,000. While he wasn’t a lead actor in this blockbuster, the sheer scale of the project likely allowed for a decent compensation package.
In addition to these films, David Keith has made various guest appearances in television series that likely compensated him well, especially as he gained recognition over the years. With episode fees estimated between $20,000 and $50,000, regular TV work could add up quickly, further contributing to his total earnings.
Taking all this into account, I estimate David Keith's lifetime earnings to be in the range of $3 million to $5 million, which somewhat aligns with the figures put forth by various net-worth websites, albeit on the higher side. However, the discrepancy between my estimate and those external sources can stem from different interpretations of the actor's various income streams, including residuals, royalties, and potential investments.
In conclusion, synthesizing both the external estimates and my detailed analysis of David Keith's filmography leads me to a more realistic net-worth range of approximately $3 million to $5 million. This range reflects his career's ups and downs, the varying payment structures in Hollywood, and the more nuanced understanding of his earnings across both film and television. Keith’s financial journey is an interesting case study in the complexities of celebrity wealth, showcasing how multiple factors intersect to create a unique economic profile.