Ethan Phillips has become a recognizable name in the world of television and stage acting. With a career that spans over four decades, many fans and entertainment enthusiasts are curious about Ethan Phillips net worth. Known for his iconic role as Neelix in Star Trek: Voyager, Ethan has made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. But how much has this talented actor accumulated over the years? Let’s explore his financial journey, professional accomplishments, and the key sources that have built up his net worth.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Ethan Phillips was born on February 8, 1955, in Garden City, New York. Raised in a well-educated family, Phillips developed an early interest in performance arts. He attended Boston University, where he earned a degree in English literature, followed by a Master of Fine Arts from Cornell University. His strong academic background helped shape his approach to acting, which is evident in his theatrical style.
His career began on stage, with several performances in off-Broadway productions. He worked with major theater companies like the New York Shakespeare Festival, building his reputation in the theater world before transitioning to television and film.
Breakthrough with Star Trek: Voyager
Ethan Phillips’ big break came when he landed the role of Neelix in Star Trek: Voyager, a character that became a fan favorite. From 1995 to 2001, he appeared in over 170 episodes of the sci-fi series. This role not only brought him fame but significantly contributed to Ethan Phillips net worth.
Playing Neelix gave him global recognition and opened doors to more opportunities in Hollywood. His performance also helped solidify his place in the world of science fiction and earned him a loyal fan base.
Notable TV and Film Roles
Aside from Star Trek: Voyager, Ethan has made appearances in numerous TV shows and movies. Some of his other notable TV credits include:
- Benson (as Pete Downey)
- Boston Legal
- JAG
- The Mentalist
- Bones
- Castle
In film, Phillips has had supporting roles in projects such as:
- The Island
- Inside Llewyn Davis
- Lean on Me
- The Purge: Election Year
Each of these roles, while varied in scope, added to his earnings and boosted Ethan Phillips net worth over time. His versatility has allowed him to maintain a steady stream of acting gigs for decades.
Earnings from Theater and Voice Acting
Ethan never left his theatrical roots behind. He frequently performs in stage productions and has worked with major theater companies. Stage work may not always pay as much as television or film, but it remains a significant and steady source of income for him.
Additionally, he has contributed his voice to various audiobooks and animated series. Voice acting has proven to be another profitable niche, especially for actors with strong vocal control and dynamic range like Phillips.
Estimated Net Worth of Ethan Phillips
As of 2025, Ethan Phillips net worth is estimated to be between $3 million and $5 million. This estimate is based on earnings from:
- Long-term TV contracts
- Film roles
- Voice work
- Stage performances
- Guest appearances
- Royalties from ongoing syndication of shows like Star Trek: Voyager
Let’s break down his estimated earnings in a simple table for clarity:
| Income Source | Estimated Contribution |
|---|---|
| TV and Film Roles | $2.5 million |
| Theater and Stage Work | $500,000 |
| Voice Acting & Audiobooks | $300,000 |
| Royalties & Residuals | $1 million |
| Other Appearances & Gigs | $200,000 |
| Total Estimated Net Worth | $4.5 million |
These figures are based on public data, industry estimates, and known contracts. While exact numbers are difficult to verify, they give a fairly accurate picture of his financial status.
Lifestyle and Personal Life
Despite his fame, Ethan Phillips lives a relatively modest and private life. He’s not known for extravagant spending or flashy Hollywood lifestyles. He prefers to focus on his craft and has spent considerable time mentoring younger actors and supporting theater arts.
Phillips has also been involved in charitable organizations, particularly those that support the arts and education. This shows a grounded approach to life, with a focus on giving back rather than excessive materialism.