Donald Lee Stroud, widely known as Don Stroud, is a legendary American actor, musician, and surfer whose career spans over 100 films and more than 175 television shows. Born on September 1, 1943 in Honolulu, Hawaii, he earned a reputation as a character actor known for playing villains and tough characters. From early surfing days to Hollywood action roles, his journey reflects dedication and talent.
Throughout his career, Don Stroud has starred in iconic movies like Coogan’s Bluff, Joe Kidd, Bloody Mama, The Amityville Horror, and the James Bond film, Licence to Kill. His television appearances include Hawaii Five-O, The A-Team, Mike Hammer, Nash Bridges, and Pensacola: Wings of Gold. Fans remember him for his beach blond, hulky, and handsome persona that perfectly complemented his tough-guy roles.
With a foundation built on surfing background and Hawaiian Eye, Don Stroud moved to Los Angeles, pursuing Hollywood opportunities and creating a legacy that continues to inspire aspiring actors and performers.
| Attribute | Detail | Short Explanation |
| Full Name | Donald Lee Stroud | Name |
| Nickname | Don Stroud | Common |
| Birth Date | 1-Sep-43 | DOB |
| Age | 82 years old | Age |
| Birth Place | Honolulu, Hawaii | Hawaii |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) | Tall |
| Occupations | Actor, musician, surfer | Jobs |
| Years Active | 1967–present | Career |
| Film Count | Over 100 films | Movies |
| TV Shows | Over 175 television shows | Series |
| Character Type | Villains, tough characters | Roles |
| Notable Films | Coogan’s Bluff, Joe Kidd, Bloody Mama | Famous |
Basic Information of Don Stroud Net Worth
Donald Lee Stroud, born September 1, 1943, is now 82 years old. Standing at 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m), he carries the presence of a seasoned actor, musician, and surfer. He began his professional career in 1967 and remains active to the present day, showcasing his enduring dedication to Hollywood.
Throughout these years, his years active highlight a remarkable span filled with challenging roles and consistent work across films and television shows, emphasizing the breadth of his character actor career. His age, birthplace, and physical stature made him ideal for action and villain roles that shaped his public image.
Understanding these basic details provides context when evaluating Don Stroud net worth, as longevity and versatility directly influence an actor’s financial success.
| Attribute | Details | Notes |
| Full Name | Donald Lee Stroud | Actor, musician, surfer |
| Birth Date | 1-Sep-43 | Age 82 |
| Birth Place | Honolulu, Hawaii | Hawaiian roots |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) | Ideal for action roles |
| Occupations | Actor, musician, surfer | Versatile career |
| Years Active | 1967–present | Over 100 films, 175 TV shows |
| Known For | Villains, tough characters | Signature roles |
| Early Work | Hawaiian Eye, stunt double | Surfing background |
| Family | Clarence Stroud, Ann McCormack, Duke Stroud | Actor lineage |
| Residence | Honolulu, Hawaii | Returns to roots |
Early Life & Background
Born to Clarence Stroud, a vaudeville actor of The Stroud Twins, and Ann McCormack, a renowned singer, Don Stroud spent his childhood in Honolulu, Hawaii. Under the guidance of his stepfather, Paul Livermore, he grew up on Waikiki Beach, mastering the art of surfing and connecting with mentors who shaped his athletic and artistic foundation.
By age 16, he earned a black belt in Kajukenbo, demonstrating discipline beyond the professional surfer life. At 17, he won the Mākaha Junior Championship and placed fourth in the Duke Kahanamoku International Surfing Championship, highlighting early competitive achievements. These early accomplishments helped forge the resilience and strength he later brought to his roles.
His upbringing intertwined Hawaiian culture, surfing lifestyle, and family influence, laying a foundation for a career that blends physical prowess with artistic skill. These elements indirectly impact the calculation of Don Stroud net worth through both fame and legacy.
| Category | Details | Notes |
| Parents | Clarence Stroud, Ann McCormack | Father vaudeville, mother singer |
| Stepfather | Paul Livermore | Guided upbringing, Waikiki mentor |
| Birthplace | Honolulu, Hawaii | Native city, beach culture |
| Childhood | Waikiki Beach, surfing | Learned ocean skills, discipline |
| Martial Arts | Kajukenbo, black belt, age 16 | Strength, focus, tough persona |
| Surfing Achievements | Mākaha Junior Championship, age 17 | Fourth place in Duke Kahanamoku International Championship |
| Siblings | Duke Stroud | Brother also actor |
| Mentors | Blackout, Mud, Buckshot, Rabbit, Steamboat | Local surfing guides shaping skill |
| Early Exposure | Performance, discipline, competition | Built resilience for acting |
| Legacy | Surfing + Martial Arts + Family Influence | Foundation for career and Don Stroud net worth |
Entry into Acting
While working as a lifeguard at Waikiki Beach, Don Stroud was discovered by Troy Donahue for Hawaiian Eye, serving as a stunt double in surfing scenes. At 18, he impressed onlookers and was hired immediately, transitioning from the ocean to Los Angeles and the bright lights of Hollywood.
In Los Angeles, he balanced multiple roles, including bouncer, parking cars, and nightclub manager at the famed Whisky A Go-Go on Sunset Strip, a venue hosting legends like Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix. Sidney Poitier recognized his talent here, guiding him into a serious acting career and connecting him with influential talent agents.
This phase of his life illustrates the blend of discipline from surfing background and street-smart adaptability, establishing a pathway that contributed to Don Stroud net worth over decades.
| Event | Location/Context | Significance |
| Discovered by Troy Donahue | Hawaiian Eye, Waikiki Beach | Became stunt double, started Hollywood acting career |
| Moved to Los Angeles | Hollywood, Whisky A Go-Go, Sunset Strip | Worked as bouncer, parking cars, nightclub manager, learned industry skills |
| Guidance by Sidney Poitier | Whisky A Go-Go, Hollywood connections | Received talent agent connections, launched professional acting career, foundational to Don Stroud net worth |
Film Career
Don Stroud debuted in films like Games 1967 and The Ballad of Josie 1967, quickly signing a five-film contract with Universal Pictures. Roles in Madigan 1968, Coogan’s Bluff 1968, and Joe Kidd 1972 solidified his reputation alongside Clint Eastwood.
He co-starred in Roger Corman productions such as Bloody Mama 1970 and Von Richthofen and Brown 1971, later taking on roles in Murph the Surf 1975, Death Weekend 1976, The Killer Inside Me 1976, The Amityville Horror 1979, and The Buddy Holly Story 1978. In Licence to Kill 1989, he played a memorable James Bond villain, demonstrating his signature portrayal of villains and tough characters.
From crime films to action films and exploitation films, his consistent presence and range highlight his long-term contributions to Hollywood, directly affecting the growth of Don Stroud net worth.
| Film Title | Year / Role | Notes / Highlights |
| Games | 1967 / Norman | Debut film, introduced character actor persona |
| The Ballad of Josie | 1967 / Bratsch | Early role showcasing tough characters |
| Madigan | 1968 / Hughie | Signed Universal Pictures contract |
| Coogan’s Bluff | 1968 / James Ringerman | Clint Eastwood co-star, action role |
| Joe Kidd | 1972 / Lamarr | Featured as villain, western crime film |
| Bloody Mama | 1970 / Herman Barker | Roger Corman film, top billing over Robert De Niro |
| Von Richthofen and Brown | 1971 / Roy Brown | Aviation scenes, survived plane crash |
| Murph the Surf | 1975 / Jack Murphy | Played real-life jewel thief, martial arts fight |
| Death Weekend | 1976 / Lep | Horror/thriller, reinforced villain roles |
| The Killer Inside Me | 1976 / Elmer | Co-starred in crime film, action scenes |
| The Buddy Holly Story | 1978 / Jesse Charles | Played live drums, music integration |
| The Amityville Horror | 1979 / Father Bolen | Cult horror film, supporting role |
| Licence to Kill | 1989 / Colonel Heller | James Bond villain, iconic action |
| Other Films | 1970s–1990s | Exploitation cinema, diverse action and crime roles |
Television Career
On television, Don Stroud first appeared in The Road West 1967, followed by roles under his Universal contract in series such as Barnaby Jones, Cannon, Charlie’s Angels, Ironside, Hawaii Five-O, Marcus Welby M.D., Starsky & Hutch, and The Streets of San Francisco.
He played Captain Pat Chambers in Mickey Spillane’s Mike Hammer and its sequel, starred as The Great Kahuna in The New Gidget, and appeared in Nash Bridges and Pensacola: Wings of Gold. His brief 2011 return to Hawaii Five-0 showcased enduring relevance and adaptability.
These long-term television appearances reinforce his legacy as a versatile character actor and contribute significantly to Don Stroud net worth through royalties and recognition.
| Year / Era | Series / Show | Role / Notes |
| 1967 | The Road West | Nino, debut role, NBC western |
| 1968 | Hawaii Five-O | Guest appearance, multiple episodes |
| 1974 | Barnaby Jones | Chuck Summers, crime story |
| 1973 | Cannon | Marty Brand, detective genre |
| 1974 | Gunsmoke | Pete Murphy / Foss, classic western |
| 1984 | Mike Hammer | Captain Pat Chambers, recurring role |
| 1986 | The New Gidget | The Great Kahuna, four episodes |
| 1996-2001 | Nash Bridges | Recurring role, police drama |
| 1996-2000 | Pensacola: Wings of Gold | Major role, military-themed series |
| 2011 | Hawaii Five-0 | Bartender, cameo, second season |
Personal Life
Don Stroud survived a dramatic plane crash during Von Richthofen and Brown 1971, rescuing the pilot by treading water for nearly an hour. In the late 1980s, while trying to stop a mugging incident in New York City, he was stabbed multiple times, resulting in partial facial paralysis and permanent vision loss in one eye.
These experiences demonstrate resilience and personal courage that transcend his acting career. They add to the narrative of a life lived fully, combining athletic skill, professional risk, and human perseverance, indirectly shaping the enduring value associated with Don Stroud net worth.
Family & Relationships
Don Stroud married Teri Sullivan on July 27, 1994, and was previously married to Linda Hayes (September 11, 1982 – divorced) and Sally Ann Stroud (February 18, 1973 – divorced). His parents, Clarence Stroud and Ann McCormack, with stepfather Paul Livermore, created a strong foundation for his Hawaiian upbringing.
He shares the acting legacy with his brother Duke Stroud, and they remain influential in entertainment circles. Despite no children, his family connections and mentorship impact Hollywood and reinforce his name in the public consciousness.
| Parent | Spouse | Sibling |
| Clarence Stroud – vaudeville actor | Teri Sullivan – married July 27, 1994 | Duke Stroud – actor |
| Ann McCormack – singer | Linda Hayes – married September 11, 1982, divorced | Influenced career growth |
| Paul Livermore – stepfather | Sally Ann Stroud – married February 18, 1973, divorced | Mentorship & support in Hollywood |
Trivia & Facts
Don Stroud constantly played villain roles, earned a karate black belt, and performed live drums for The Buddy Holly Story. He remains a celebrated professional surfer and appeared as a Playgirl magazine nude centerfold 1973.
His guest roles in Hawaii Five-O 1968 and Hawaii Five-0 2010, along with his Honolulu residence, reflect his continued ties to Hawaiian culture and physicality. Participation in exploitation cinema expanded his portfolio and contributed to Don Stroud net worth.
| Fact / Event | Details | Explanation |
| Villain Roles | Frequently cast as villains and tough characters in films and television shows | Known for intense on-screen personas |
| Karate Black Belt | Holds a black belt in Kajukenbo, showcasing discipline and combat skill | Martial arts influenced his stunt and fight scenes |
| Live Drums | Played live drums for The Buddy Holly Story while filming | Adds realism and musical talent to acting |
| Professional Surfer | Competed professionally, placed fourth in the Duke Kahanamoku International | Early surfing background built athleticism |
| Playgirl Magazine | Appeared as nude centerfold 1973 | Diversified public exposure and media presence |
| Hawaii Five-O Appearances | Featured in Hawaii Five-O 1968 and Hawaii Five-0 2010 | Maintained connection with Hawaiian roots |
| Exploitation Cinema | Participated in exploitation films like Bloody Mama | Built cult following and screen versatility |
| Honolulu Residence | Lives in Honolulu, Hawaii | Returns to roots, reflecting personal and cultural ties |
Salary
His known daily salary includes The Deadly Avenger 1992 at $1,000 per day, illustrating early compensation in Hollywood that, along with consistent work, compounds to his current Don Stroud net worth.
| Project/Film | Year | Salary / Earnings |
| The Deadly Avenger | 1992 | $1,000/day |
| Bloody Mama | 1970 | Top billing |
| Coogan’s Bluff | 1968 | Film contract |
| The Buddy Holly Story | 1978 | Drums live |
| Licence to Kill | 1989 | Bond villain |
| Hawaiian Eye | 1959 | Stunt double |
| The New Gidget | 1986 | TV series |
| Nash Bridges | 1996–2001 | Recurring |
| Pensacola: Wings of Gold | 1996–2000 | Recurring |
Filmography & Television Credits
With over 100 films, 175 television appearances, and 200 television shows spanning the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and 2010s, Don Stroud showcases an extensive career. His consistent work in Hollywood reinforces his career longevity, underpinning the financial and cultural value measured in Don Stroud net worth.
| Year | Title | Role / Notes |
| 1967 | Games | Norman, film |
| 1967 | The Ballad of Josie | Bratsch, film |
| 1968 | Madigan | Hughie, film |
| 1968 | Coogan’s Bluff | James Ringerman, Clint Eastwood film |
| 1972 | Joe Kidd | Lamarr, action film |
| 1970 | Bloody Mama | Herman Barker, Roger Corman |
| 1971 | Von Richthofen and Brown | Roy Brown, plane crash scene |
| 1975 | Murph the Surf | Jack Murphy, jewel thief |
| 1976 | Death Weekend | Lep, horror/thriller |
| 1976 | The Killer Inside Me | Elmer, crime film |
| 1978 | The Buddy Holly Story | Jesse Charles, played live drums |
| 1979 | The Amityville Horror | Father Bolen, cult horror |
| 1989 | Licence to Kill | James Bond villain, action film |
| 1967–2001 | TV Series | Hawaii Five-O, The Road West, Barnaby Jones, The Streets of San Francisco, guest appearances |
| 1986–1987 | The New Gidget | The Great Kahuna, TV series |
| 1996–2001 | Nash Bridges | Recurring role, TV series |
| 1996–2000 | Pensacola: Wings of Gold | TV series role |
FAQs
What is Don Stroud’s net worth?
Don Stroud’s net worth is the result of decades-long work as an actor, musician, and surfer, appearing in over 100 films and more than 175 television shows. His earnings from Hollywood films, television roles, and special appearances have contributed to his impressive financial standing.
How did Don Stroud start his acting career?
Don Stroud began as a stunt double for Troy Donahue on Hawaiian Eye, after being discovered while surfing in Waikiki Beach, Hawaii. He then moved to Los Angeles, worked as a bouncer and nightclub manager, and was guided into acting by Sidney Poitier, setting the foundation for his net worth.
Which films contributed the most to Don Stroud’s net worth?
Movies like Coogan’s Bluff, Joe Kidd, Bloody Mama, The Buddy Holly Story, and Licence to Kill significantly boosted Don Stroud net worth. His work in action films, crime films, and exploitation cinema showcased his talent for playing villains and tough characters, creating lasting earnings.
Did Don Stroud earn from television as well?
Yes, Don Stroud earned consistently from television series such as Hawaii Five-O, The New Gidget, Mike Hammer, Nash Bridges, and Pensacola: Wings of Gold. His multiple guest appearances and long-term contracts with networks contributed to his overall net worth.
What unique skills added to Don Stroud’s value as an actor?
Don Stroud’s black belt in karate, professional surfing, and ability to play live drums for films like The Buddy Holly Story gave him a unique edge. These skills made him a versatile character actor, enhancing his earning potential and Don Stroud net worth.
How did personal challenges impact Don Stroud’s career?
Surviving a plane crash during Von Richthofen and Brown 1971 and being stabbed during a mugging incident did not stop Don Stroud. His resilience allowed him to continue working in films and television, indirectly sustaining and increasing his net worth over time.
What is the role of family in Don Stroud’s life and career?
Don Stroud comes from a family of performers. His father, Clarence Stroud, was a vaudeville actor, and his brother, Duke Stroud, is also an actor. These connections and a supportive upbringing in Honolulu helped him maintain a steady career, which contributes to his financial success.
Did Don Stroud have any notable earnings outside acting?
Beyond acting, Don Stroud earned from appearances in Playgirl magazine as a nude centerfold in 1973 and other entertainment ventures. Combined with earnings from film salaries, including The Deadly Avenger 1992, these added to his net worth.
How long has Don Stroud been active in Hollywood?
Don Stroud has been active since 1967, appearing in over 100 films and 200 television shows across decades. His career longevity, spanning 1960s to 2010s, played a major role in building his net worth steadily.
Where does Don Stroud live now?
A10: Don Stroud returned to Honolulu, Hawaii, living with his wife Teri Sullivan. Maintaining a residence in his home state reflects his roots in Hawaiian culture and continues to be a part of his personal legacy tied to his net worth.