Eric Stoltz, born September 30, 1961, in Whittier, California, is an American actor, director, and producer whose career spans more than four decades. Known for his Golden Globe–nominated performance in Mask (1985), his cult roles in Pulp Fiction (1994) and Some Kind of Wonderful (1987), and his extensive television work, Stoltz has built a reputation as a versatile and resilient figure in Hollywood.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Eric Cameron Stoltz |
| Birthdate | September 30, 1961 |
| Birthplace | Whittier, California, USA |
| Education | San Marcos High School; University of Southern California (left early) |
| Breakthrough Role | Mask (1985) |
| Major Films | Mask, Some Kind of Wonderful, Pulp Fiction, Killing Zoe, Little Women |
| Major TV Roles | Chicago Hope, Once and Again, Caprica |
| Directing Credits | Glee, Grey’s Anatomy, Nashville |
| Height | 5ft 11 or 180.3 cm tall |
| Net Worth (2026) | $5–7 million |
| Recognition | Golden Globe nomination, respected actor/director |
Early Life and Family Background
Eric Cameron Stoltz was born to Jack Stoltz and Evelyn B. Stoltz. Raised in Whittier, California, he grew up in a household that valued creativity and discipline. His father was a school teacher, while his mother was a violinist. This artistic environment influenced Stoltz’s early interest in music and performance. He played piano and violin, performing at local events, and developed confidence on stage.
Childhood Influences
- Exposure to music and theater from a young age.
- Encouragement from family to pursue creative endeavors.
- Early performances in community theater and school productions.
Education
Stoltz attended San Marcos High School in Santa Barbara, where he was active in drama and music. He briefly studied at the University of Southern California, but left to pursue acting full-time. He later trained with acting coaches in New York, immersing himself in theater productions and honing his craft.
Career Beginnings (1978–1984)
Eric Stoltz began his career with small roles in television and stage productions. His film debut came with Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982), where he played a supporting role. Though not a breakout, it introduced him to Hollywood audiences.
Early Struggles
Like many actors, Stoltz faced challenges in securing consistent roles. His dedication to craft and natural charisma, however, earned him recognition among casting directors.
Breakthrough Roles (1985–1990)
Mask (1985)
Stoltz’s portrayal of Rocky Dennis in Mask brought him critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination. The role showcased his ability to embody complex characters and earned him respect in the industry.
Back to the Future (1985)
Stoltz was originally cast as Marty McFly in Back to the Future. He filmed several weeks before being replaced by Michael J. Fox. Though a setback, this incident became a famous Hollywood anecdote and demonstrated Stoltz’s resilience.
Some Kind of Wonderful (1987)
In this John Hughes classic, Stoltz starred as Keith Nelson, cementing his reputation as a leading man of the 1980s.
Film Career Highlights (1990–2005)
Stoltz’s filmography includes diverse roles across drama, comedy, and independent cinema:
- Killing Zoe (1993) – cult crime drama.
- Pulp Fiction (1994) – memorable role as Lance, the drug dealer.
- Little Women (1994) – supporting role in the acclaimed adaptation.
- Rob Roy (1995).
- Anaconda (1997).
- The Rules of Attraction (2002).
- The Butterfly Effect (2004).
His choices reflect a balance between mainstream films and independent projects, showcasing versatility.
Television Career
Stoltz transitioned successfully into television:
- Mad About You (1994).
- Chicago Hope (1994–1995).
- Once and Again (2000–2002).
- Caprica (2010).
- Guest roles in Law & Order, Will & Grace, and more.
Television provided Stoltz with steady work and opportunities to explore complex characters.
Directing and Producing
Beyond acting, Stoltz has directed episodes of popular series:
- Glee.
- Grey’s Anatomy.
- Nashville.
- Caprica.
His work behind the camera demonstrates his multifaceted talent and ability to guide actors and shape narrative flow.
Personal Life
Stoltz is known for maintaining a private lifestyle. He married Bernadette Moley in 2005, and they have one daughter, born in 2007. Stoltz values privacy and focuses on his craft rather than celebrity.
Eric Stoltz leads a very private life. He has been married to singer Bernadette Moley since 2005, and together they have one daughter, born in 2007. Stoltz deliberately avoids the spotlight, preferring a quiet family life while continuing his work in film and television.1
Family and Relationships
- Spouse: Eric Stoltz married Bernadette Moley, an Irish-born singer and former Disney animator, in 2005.
- Children: The couple has one daughter, born in 2007.
- Past Relationships: Before settling down, Stoltz was linked to several actresses in the 1980s and 1990s, including Jennifer Jason Leigh and Bridget Fonda. These relationships were widely reported but Stoltz himself rarely commented publicly.
Lifestyle and Privacy
- Residence: Stoltz divides his time between Los Angeles and other locations, depending on his directing and acting projects.
- Privacy: He is known for being extremely private, rarely giving interviews about his personal life. Unlike many Hollywood actors, Stoltz avoids red‑carpet events unless directly tied to his professional work.
- Values: His lifestyle emphasizes family, artistic integrity, and discretion. He prefers to let his work speak for itself rather than cultivate celebrity status.
Private Life Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Spouse | Bernadette Moley (married 2005) |
| Children | One daughter (born 2007) |
| Past Partners | Jennifer Jason Leigh, Bridget Fonda (1980s–1990s) |
| Lifestyle | Family‑oriented, private, avoids media spotlight |
| Residence | Primarily Los Angeles |
| Values | Privacy, artistic integrity, balance between career and family |
Eric Stoltz’s private life reflects a deliberate choice to step away from Hollywood’s celebrity culture. By marrying outside the acting industry and focusing on family, he has maintained stability and avoided the turbulence often associated with fame. His discretion has helped him sustain a long career without the distractions of tabloid attention. This balance between professional achievement and personal privacy enhances his reputation as a respected, grounded figure in Hollywood.
Lifestyle and Values
- Family-oriented.
- Prefers privacy over public exposure.
- Advocates for artistic integrity.
Net Worth
As of 2026, Stoltz’s net worth is estimated at $5–7 million. His income sources include acting, directing, producing, and occasional stage work.
As of 2026, Eric Stoltz’s net worth is estimated between $5 million and $7 million. His wealth comes primarily from his long career as an actor in film and television, supplemented by directing and producing work, as well as occasional stage performances.
Net Worth Overview
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): $5–7 million.
- Primary Sources of Income:
- Acting in films and television.
- Directing episodes of popular series (Glee, Grey’s Anatomy, Nashville).
- Producing projects, including Caprica.
- Occasional stage work and independent cinema.
- Financial Profile: Stoltz’s earnings reflect steady, consistent success rather than blockbuster wealth.
Income Sources
- Film Career:
- Mask (1985) brought him critical acclaim and financial recognition.
- Roles in Some Kind of Wonderful, Pulp Fiction, Killing Zoe, Little Women, and The Butterfly Effect contributed to his steady income.
- Television:
- Long‑term roles in Chicago Hope and Once and Again.
- Caprica (2010) added both acting and producing credits.
- Directing:
- Directed episodes of Glee, Grey’s Anatomy, and Nashville.
- Behind‑the‑camera work provided reliable income and industry respect.
Net Worth Summary Table
| Source of Wealth | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Film Acting | Major income from mainstream and independent films |
| Television Acting | Steady income from long‑term series roles |
| Directing | Consistent earnings from directing episodes of hit shows |
| Producing | Additional revenue from projects like Caprica |
| Stage Work | Occasional contributions from theater performances |
| Estimated Net Worth (2026) | $5–7 million |
Eric Stoltz’s financial profile reflects the career of a versatile, steady performer. While he never became a blockbuster star, his consistent work across film, television, and directing has ensured financial stability. His net worth of $5–7 million highlights a career built on resilience, adaptability, and dedication to craft rather than celebrity.
Analysis
Eric Stoltz’s career illustrates resilience and adaptability. Despite setbacks, such as being replaced in Back to the Future, he built a diverse portfolio across film and television. His transition into directing highlights his creative depth. Financially, his net worth reflects steady success rather than blockbuster wealth. Stoltz’s legacy lies in his commitment to storytelling, both as an actor and director, making him a respected figure in Hollywood’s evolving landscape.
Conclusion
Eric Stoltz remains a versatile and respected figure in Hollywood. His journey from early struggles to acclaimed performances and directing success reflects a career built on talent, resilience, and integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Eric Stoltz
Who is Eric Stoltz?
Eric Stoltz (born September 30, 1961) is an American actor, director, and producer. He is best known for his Golden Globe–nominated role in Mask (1985), his cult performance in Pulp Fiction (1994), and his starring role in Some Kind of Wonderful (1987).
What is Eric Stoltz’s net worth?
As of 2026, Eric Stoltz’s net worth is estimated between $5 million and $7 million, earned through acting, directing, producing, and occasional stage work.
What are Eric Stoltz’s most famous roles?
His most notable performances include:
- Rocky Dennis in Mask (1985)
- Keith Nelson in Some Kind of Wonderful (1987)
- Lance in Pulp Fiction (1994)
- Appearances in Killing Zoe (1993), Little Women (1994), Rob Roy (1995), Anaconda (1997), and The Butterfly Effect (2004)
Was Eric Stoltz in Back to the Future?
Yes. Eric Stoltz was originally cast as Marty McFly and filmed several weeks of scenes before being replaced by Michael J. Fox. This remains one of Hollywood’s most famous casting changes.
Is Eric Stoltz married?
Yes. Eric Stoltz married Bernadette Moley, an Irish singer and former Disney animator, in 2005.
Does Eric Stoltz have children?
Yes. Eric Stoltz and Bernadette Moley have one daughter, born in 2007.
How old is Eric Stoltz in 2026?
Eric Stoltz is 64 years old in 2026.
Has Eric Stoltz won any awards?
He received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in Mask (1985). While he has not won major mainstream awards, he is widely respected for his contributions to independent cinema and television.
What is Eric Stoltz’s family background?
Eric Stoltz was raised in Whittier, California. His father was a school teacher, and his mother was a violinist, which influenced his early interest in music and performance.
Why is Eric Stoltz considered influential?
Eric Stoltz is considered influential because of his versatility across film, television, and directing. His career demonstrates resilience, especially after setbacks like Back to the Future, and his work in independent cinema has inspired many actors and filmmakers.
References (1)
1Eric Stoltz – Wikipedia.