Last Updated on February 19, 2024 by Robert Williamson
Jack Klugman, whose net worth was estimated to be around at $5 million, made a significant impact on American television and the entertainment industry.
He was renowned for his outstanding skills and captivating on-screen presence, earning a special spot in the hearts of audiences through iconic characters in timeless TV shows like ‘The Odd Couple’ and ‘Quincy, M.E.’
However, there’s more to his legacy than just his acting career; there’s also a financial narrative to explore concerning this legendary actor.
Jack Klugman biography
| Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jack Klugman |
| Date of Birth | April 27, 1922 |
| Place of Birth | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Date of Passing | December 24, 2012 |
| Place of Passing | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Resting Place | In the city of Los Angeles, there lies the Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park. |
| Education | Carnegie Mellon University |
| Years Active | 1950–2012 |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Spouses | Brett Somers (m. 1953; div. 1977), Peggy Crosby (m. 2008) |
| Children | 2, including Adam |
| Relatives | Brian Klugman (grand-nephew) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5 million |
| Career Highlights | Iconic roles in “The Odd Couple” and “Quincy, M.E.” Two Primetime Emmy Awards, Memorable appearances on “The Twilight Zone,” Passion for Thoroughbred racing |
| Notable Works | Klugman’s notable work includes “The Odd Couple,” “Quincy, M.E.,” and more. |
| Awards and Honors | Primetime Emmy Awards (1964, 1971, 1973), Golden Globe Award (1974), Tony Award nomination (1960), TV Land Award (2004) for “The Odd Couple” |
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Jack Klugman Early Life and Family
Jack Klugman was born on April 27, 1922, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as the youngest of six children in the Klugman family.
His parents, Rose and Max Klugman, were Russian-Jewish immigrants.
Rose worked as a hat maker, while Max was a house painter.
This family background would shape Jack’s identity and values, influencing his journey in the world of entertainment.
Jack Klugman Education and Early Doubts
Jack Klugman’s educational journey and early doubts about his career choice were marked by uncertainty.
He attended Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie Mellon University) in Pittsburgh, where he initially aspired to pursue acting.
However, during his time at the institute, one of his drama teachers expressed skepticism about his suitability for an acting career, suggesting that he might be better suited for a different path.
Despite these early doubts, Klugman’s passion for acting ultimately prevailed, propelling him towards a successful career in the entertainment industry.
Jack Klugman’s Passion for the Sport
1.”Passion for the Track” explores Jack Klugman’s deep love for thoroughbred racing, a passion that paralleled his acting career.
2.”Thrills at the Derby” delves into Jaklin Klugman’s impressive performance, finishing third in the 1980 Kentucky Derby, a highlight of Jack’s racing endeavors.
3.”El Rancho De Jaklin” unveils Klugman’s affection for his horses, spotlighting his equine sanctuary and its significance in his life.
4.”From the Screen to the Track” showcases how Klugman seamlessly balanced his acting and racing passions, creating a unique and multifaceted legacy.
Jack Klugman Marriage to Brett Somers and Family
Jack Klugman’s personal life included a significant chapter marked by his marriage to actress Brett Somers. The two tied the knot in 1953, and their union resulted in a family that included two children, Adam and David.
Interestingly, Adam had a cameo as a child playing the character of Oscar Madison in two flashbacks on the TV series “The Odd Couple,” a role made famous by his father.
Additionally, from Brett Somers’s previous marriage, Jack Klugman became the stepfather to Leslie Klein, who was married to Jim Fyfe, an actor and theater director.
Klugman and Somers’ marriage lasted for over two decades, but they faced challenges along the way.
The couple separated in 1974 and officially divorced in August 1977. Notably, they did not make their divorce public, which led to misconceptions that they remained married but separated for the rest of Somers’s life.
Sadly, in 2007, Brett Somers passed away from cancer at the age of 83. After her death, Jack Klugman went on to marry Peggy Crosby in February 2008, shortly after Somers’s passing.
Jack Klugman Marriage to Peggy Crosby
In 1988, Jack Klugman began a relationship with Peggy Crosby. They married in February 2008, shortly after the passing of Brett Somers.
Klugman’s marriage to Peggy Crosby represented a new chapter in his personal life, showcasing his resilience and capacity for love even after facing challenges in previous relationships.
Jack Klugman Relationship with Barbara Neugass and Legal Dispute
In the late 1980s, Jack Klugman was in a significant relationship with actress Barbara Neugass. However, their romance eventually came to an end in 1992, leading to a legal dispute.
Barbara Neugass filed a palimony suit, seeking financial support and claiming a share of Klugman’s assets due to their past relationship.
This legal battle shed light on the complexities that can arise in personal relationships, even for public figures like Klugman.
Ultimately, the court ruled against Barbara Neugass’s claim for financial support, bringing an end to the legal dispute.
Jack Klugman Military Service
Jack Klugman, the acclaimed actor, also had a noteworthy military service record.
During World War II, he served in the United States Army, contributing to the war effort as a part of his patriotic duty.
His service experiences played a significant role in shaping his life and career.
Jack Klugman Acting Debut
Jack Klugman embarked on his acting journey in the world of entertainment in 1950.
His debut marked the beginning of a remarkable career in stage, film, and television.
Klugman’s early days in the industry were filled with dedication and the pursuit of his passion for acting.
His initial steps set the stage for the iconic roles and memorable performances that would follow in the decades to come.
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Jack Klugman Television Guest Appearances
Throughout his illustrious career, Jack Klugman made notable guest appearances on various television shows, leaving a lasting impression with his talent and versatility. Some of his memorable guest roles include:
1.Alfred Hitchcock Presents (1957): Klugman portrayed George Benedict in the episode titled “Mail Order Prophet.”
2.Gunsmoke (1958): In the episode “Buffalo Man,” he took on the role of Earl Ticks.
3.General Electric Theater (1958): Klugman appeared as Murphy in “The Young and Scared.”
4.The Twilight Zone (1960-1963): He graced this iconic series with his presence in multiple episodes, playing characters like Joey Crown, Jesse Cardiff, Captain Ross, and Max Phillips.
5.The Fugitive (1963): In the episode “Everybody Gets Hit in the Mouth Sometimes,” Klugman portrayed Gus Hendricks.
6.Fame Is the Name of the Game (1966): He took on the character of Ben Welcome in this television film.
7.Garrison’s Gorillas (1967): Klugman appeared as Gus Manners in the episode titled “Banker’s Hours.”
8.Then Came Bronson (1969): He played Dr. Charles Hanrahan in the episode “The Runner.”
Jack Klugman First Primetime Emmy Win
In 1964, Jack Klugman achieved a significant milestone by winning his first Primetime Emmy Award.
He received this honor in the category of “Outstanding Single Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role” for his work on the television series “The Defenders.”
This Emmy win marked a pivotal moment in his career, validating his exceptional talent and dedication to acting.
It was the first of several Emmy wins that would follow in his illustrious career, solidifying his reputation as an outstanding actor.
Becoming Oscar Madison: On Broadway and Television
Jack Klugman’s journey from the Broadway stage to television stardom was defined by his iconic portrayal of Oscar Madison.
In 1965, he took on the role of Oscar Madison in the original Broadway production of “The Odd Couple,” originally played by Walter Matthau.
This transition marked a pivotal moment in Klugman’s acting career, setting the stage for his memorable television role.
Jack Klugman and Tony Randall: The Dynamic Duo
In the television adaptation of “The Odd Couple,” Jack Klugman and Tony Randall formed a dynamic and unforgettable duo.
Their on-screen chemistry and comedic synergy were pivotal to the show’s success.
Klugman’s portrayal of Oscar Madison, alongside Randall’s Felix Unger, created a dynamic and memorable partnership that left an enduring mark on television history.
Their ability to complement each other’s performances and deliver humor with precision elevated the show to iconic status.
Beyond Acting: “The Odd Couple Sings” Album by Jack Klugman
In addition to his acting career, Jack Klugman and his co-star Tony Randall ventured beyond the small screen.
They recorded an album titled “The Odd Couple Sings,” a musical endeavor that showcased their talents in a different light.
This album, released in 1973, featured songs performed by Klugman and Randall, accompanied by Roland Shaw and The London Festival Orchestra and Chorus.
Their foray into the world of music added another dimension to their collaborative partnership and further solidified their place in the hearts of fans and critics alike.
Quincy, M.E: Jack Klugman Medical Examiner
From 1976 to 1983, Jack Klugman starred in the title role of “Quincy, M.E.,” where he portrayed a medical examiner with a knack for solving crimes.
His exceptional performance earned him four Primetime Emmy Award nominations during the series’ run and solidified his reputation as a versatile and accomplished actor.
Business Ventures: Jack’s Corn Crib
During the 1980s, Jack Klugman ventured into the business world by licensing his name for use in a popcorn franchise called “Jack’s Corn Crib.”
This move reflected his interest in diversifying his business interests beyond the realm of entertainment.
1990s to 2010s: Battling Illness and Continuing Career (1990-2010)
- Throat Cancer and Four Years Away (1989-1993)Klugman had cancer in his throat, which he first got in 1974. This illness stopped him from working as an actor for four years.
- Revivals and TV Reunions (1993-2007)Klugman returned to acting in the 1990s and 2000s. He acted in old plays again and reunited with his TV friend Tony Randall in TV shows and movies.
- Quiz Show Triumph: “Going for Gold” (1993)Klugman appeared on a British quiz show called “Going for Gold,” where famous people competed against regular people. He won the show.
- Film Roles and Stage Revivals (1994-2008)Klugman acted in different movies and played old roles again in plays. Some of the movies he acted in were serious, and others were funny.
- Legal Battle with NBC (2008-2010)Klugman went to court against NBC Television because he didn’t get all the money he was supposed to from his show “Quincy M.E.” They settled the case in 2010, but the terms of the agreement were not made public.
- Final On-Screen Role and Health Challenges (2010)Klugman’s last time acting on TV or in movies was in a scary movie called “Camera Obscura” in 2010. He was also supposed to act in a play called “Twelve Angry Men” in 2012, but he couldn’t because he was sick.
Jack Klugman Theater Roles: On-Stage Performances
| Production | Role | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| “Golden Boy” | Frank Bonaparte | March 12 – April 6, 1952 |
| “A Very Special Baby” & “Time Table” | Carmen | November 14 – 17, 1956 |
| “Gypsy: A Musical Fable” | Herbie | May 21, 1959 – March 25, 1961 |
| “Tchin-Tchin” | Caesario Grimaldi (Replacement) | April 22 – May 18, 1963 |
| “The Odd Couple” | Oscar Madison (Replacement) | November 8, 1965 – July 2, 1967 |
| “Horse Johnson’s Remarkable Unintentional Transformation” | Horse Johnson | December 18, 1968 – December 21, 1968 |
| “Lyndon” | Lyndon Johnson | February 26, 1984 – March 11, 1984 |
| “I’m Not Rappaport” | Nat (Replacement) | November 19, 1985 – January 17, 1988 |
| “Three Men on a Horse” | Patsy | April 13 – May 16, 1993 |
| “The Sunshine Boys” | Willie Clark | December 8, 1997 – June 28, 1998 |
Jack Klugman Filmography
| Year | Film | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1952 | Grubstake (Apache Gold) | Role not specified |
| 1956 | Time Table | Frankie Page |
| 1957 | 12 Angry Men | Juror No. 5 |
| 1958 | Cry Terror! | Vince, a thug |
| 1962 | Days of Wine and Roses | Jim Hungerford |
| 1963 | I Could Go On Singing | George |
| 1963 | The Yellow Canary | Lt. Bonner |
| 1963 | Act One | Joe Hyman |
| 1965 | Hail, Mafia (Je vous salue, mafia!) | Phil |
| 1968 | The Detective | Dave Schoenstein |
| 1968 | The Split | Harry Kifka |
| 1969 | Goodbye, Columbus | Ben Patimkin |
| 1971 | Who Says I Can’t Ride a Rainbow! | Barney |
| 1976 | Two-Minute Warning | Sandman |
| 1996 | The Twilight of the Golds | Mr. Stein |
| 1996 | Dear God | Jemi |
| 2005 | When Do We Eat? | Artur |
| 2010 | Camera Obscura | Sam (final film role) |
Jack Klugman Television
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1950 | Suspense | Louie | Episode: “Murder at the Mardi Gras” |
| 1953 | Colonel Humphrey Flack | Role not specified | 2 episodes |
| 1954 | Rocky King Detective | Role not specified | Episode: “Return for Death” |
| 1954 | Inner Sanctum | Various roles | 3 episodes |
| 1954–1956 | Justice | Role not specified | 4 episodes |
| 1955 | Producers’ Showcase | Jackie | Episode: “The Petrified Forest” |
| 1955 | Treasury Men in Action | Role not specified | Episode: “The Case of the Betrayed Artist” |
| 1955–1956 | Goodyear Television Playhouse | Role not specified | 2 episodes |
| 1955–1956 | Armstrong Circle Theatre | Role not specified | 2 episodes |
| 1957 | Alfred Hitchcock Presents | George Benedict | Episode: “Mail Order Prophet” |
| 1958 | Gunsmoke | Earl Ticks | Episode: “Buffalo Man” |
| 1958 | General Electric Theater | Murphy | Episode: “The Young and Scared” |
| 1957 | General Electric Theater | Peter Tong | Episode: “A New Girl In His Life” |
| 1958 | Kiss Me, Kate | Gunman | Television film |
| 1959 | The Walter Winchell File | Allie Sunshine | Episode: “Demise Arrives in a Compact Form: Case #37” |
| 1959 | Naked City | Mike Greco | ABC-TV, S1-Ep 19: “The Shield” |
| 1960–1963 | The Twilight Zone | Max Phillips, Jesse Cardiff, Captain Ross and Joey Crown | Multiple episodes |
| 1961 | Follow the Sun | Steve Bixel | Episode: “Busman’s Holiday” |
| 1961 | Target: The Corruptors! | Otto Dutch Kleberg, Greg Paulson | Episodes: 1×02 Pier 60, 1×18 Chase the Dragon |
| 1961 | Straightaway | Buddy Conway | Episode: “Die Laughing” |
| 1962 | The New Breed | Floyd Blaylock | Episode: “All the Dead Faces” |
| 1962 | Cain’s Hundred | Mike Colonni | Episode: “Women of Silure” |
| 1962 | Naked City | Peter Kannick | Episode: “King Stanislaus and the Knights of the Circular Stable” |
| 1963 | The Untouchables | Solly Girsch | Episode: “An Eye for An Eye” |
| 1963 | Naked City | Arthur Crews | Episode: “Stop the Parade! A Baby Is Crying!” |
| 1963 | Arrest and Trial | Celina | Episode: “The Quality of Justice” |
| 1963 | The Fugitive | Buck Harmon | Episode: “Terror at High Point” (Season 1, Episode 13) |
| 1964 | The Virginian | Charles Mayhew | Episode: “Roar from the Mountain” |
| 1964 | The Defenders | Joe Larch | Episode: “Blacklist” |
| 1964 | The Great Adventure | John Brown | Episode: “The Night Raiders” |
| 1964 | Insight | Carny | Episode: “The Kid Show” |
| 1964–1965 | Harris Against the World | Alan Harris | 13 episodes |
| 1965 | Kraft Suspense Theatre | Ozzie Keefer | Episode: “Won’t It Ever Be Morning?” |
| 1965 | Ben Casey | Dr. Bill Justin | Episode: “A Slave Is on the Throne” |
| 1965 | The Fugitive | Gus Hendricks | Episode: “Everybody Gets Hit in the Mouth Sometimes” (Season 2, Episode 24) |
| 1965 | Insight | Weiss | Episode: “The Prisoner” |
| 1966 | Fame Is the Name of the Game | Ben Welcome | Television film |
| 1967 | Garrison’s Gorillas | Gus Manners | Episode: “Banker’s Hours” |
| 1969 | Then Came Bronson | Dr. Charles Hanrahan | Episode: “The Runner” |
| 1970 | The Bold Ones: The New Doctors | Leland Rogers | Episode: “The Diamond Millstone” |
| 1970 | The Name of the Game | Captain Garrig | Episode: “The Time Is Now” |
| 1970–1975 | The Odd Couple | Oscar Madison | 114 episodes |
| 1972 | Banyon | Role not specified | Episode: “The Lady Killers” |
| 1973 | Poor Devil | Burnett J. Emerson | Television film |
| 1974 | The Underground Man | Sheriff Tremaine | Television film |
| 1976 | One of My Wives Is Missing | Inspector Murray Levine | Television film |
| 1976–1983 | Quincy, M.E. | Dr. R. Quincy, M.E. | 147 episodes |
| 1979 | Password Plus | Himself | Game Show Participant / Celebrity Guest Star |
| 1979 | Insight | Packy Rowe | Episode: “Rebirth of Packy Rowe” |
| 1986–1987 | You Again? | Henry Willows | 26 episodes |
| 1989 | Around the World in 80 Days | Capt. Bunsby | Miniseries |
| 1993 | The Odd Couple: Together Again | Oscar Madison | Television film |
| 1994 | Parallel Lives | Senator Robert Ferguson | Television film |
| 1995 | Shining Time Station: Second Chances | Max Okowsky | Television film |
| 1997 | Diagnosis: Murder | Dr. Jeff Everden | Episode: “Physician, Murder Thyself” |
| 1999 | Diagnosis: Murder | Lt. Harry Trumble | Episode: “Voices Carry” |
| 1999 | Brother’s Keeper | Jack | Episode: “An Odd Couple of Days” |
| 2000 | The Outer Limits | Joe Walker | Episode: “Glitch” |
| 2000 | Third Watch | Stan Brandolini | Episode: “Run of the Mill” |
| 2002 | Crossing Jordan | Dr. Leo Gelber | Episode: “Someone to Count On” |
Jack Klugman Estimated Net Worth
Jack Klugman net worth is estimated to be in the range of $1 million to $5 million.
His primary source of wealth came from his career as a television actor. The exact figure of his salary remains unverified.
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Jack Klugman Passing
Jack Klugman, the acclaimed actor, passed away on December 24, 2012, in Los Angeles, CA, concluding an illustrious career spanning over six decades.
His iconic television roles remain a lasting testament to his profound influence on entertainment.
In Summation
Klugman illustrious career and legendary portrayals continue to resonate with viewers, and his name remains emblematic of excellence within the entertainment sphere.
His departure marked the conclusion of an era, yet his heritage perseveres through the timeless characters and enduring influence he bestowed upon the industry.
His contributions to both television and theater will always be venerated, ensuring the perpetuation of his name and work for generations to come.