Jobeth Williams was born on January 1, 1948, which means she’ll be celebrating her 77th birthday in 2025. She’s a talented American actress who has been making waves in film, television, and theater since the early 1970s. Williams really made a name for himself with standout performances in films like Poltergeist and the TV show The Young Lawyers. Throughout the years, she’s taken on roles as a director and producer, making a notable impact in the entertainment world. By 2025, Jobeth Williams net worth of about $50 million, thanks to her work in acting, producing, and various other projects in the industry.
Even with all her achievements, she keeps her personal life pretty private, putting her energy into her art and humanitarian work away from the limelight. JoBeth Williams has been married to TV and film director John Pasquin since 1982. They’ve got two sons, Will and Nick. Also, JoBeth has a step-daughter named Sarah from John Pasquin’s earlier marriage.
Social Profiles
Quick Bio
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Margaret JoBeth Williams |
Date of Birth | December 6, 1948 |
Place of Birth | Houston, Texas, USA |
Nationality | American |
Education | B.A. in English from Brown University |
Occupation | Actress, Director |
Years Active | 1974–present |
Spouse | John Pasquin (m. 1982) |
Children | Two sons |
Notable Works | Poltergeist, The Big Chill, Kramer vs. Kramer |
Awards & Nominations | Academy Award nomination (short film On Hope), Three Primetime Emmy nominations |
Estimated Net Worth | $50 million |
Who Is JoBeth Williams?
At 76 years old, JoBeth Williams, who was born on December 6, 1948, is still very active and involved in the entertainment and arts scene. She was recently seen in person at the 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards and is still actively involved with the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, now serving as President Emeritus. Williams has been busy keeping her acting portfolio lively with roles in films like Not Without Hope (2025), Cash for Gold (2024), and Chantilly Bridge (2023). She’s also staying active on television and at public events.
Jobeth Williams Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, JoBeth Williams’ net worth is thought to be about $50 million. She’s built her fortune with a successful and varied career as both an actress and director, landing memorable roles in films like Poltergeist, The Big Chill, and Kramer vs. Kramer. Besides acting, she also got an Academy Award nomination for her first time directing with the short film On Hope. Williams makes money from residuals, endorsements, and some savvy real estate investments, like a valuable Bel Air property she sold for millions.
She’s been married to director John Pasquin since 1982, and together they’ve made quite a few profitable real estate deals over the years. Her mix of talent, determination, and smart money management has really helped her build a significant net worth.
Year | Estimated Net Worth | Notes |
---|---|---|
1990s | Approx. $5 million | Early success from acting roles in films and TV, growing reputation in Hollywood |
2000s | Approx. $20 million | Expanded career as actress and director, multiple TV and film credits, award nominations |
2010s | Approx. $40 million | Continued acting roles, involvement in Screen Actors Guild Foundation leadership |
2020-2025 | Approx. $50 million | Current estimated net worth, includes earnings from acting, directing, producing, and investments |
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Business Ventures and Income Sources
- JoBeth Williams has built her career as an actress in film, television, and theater since the 1970s, and that’s where she primarily earns her income. She’s really made a name for herself with her successful roles, getting both praise and some nice financial perks along the way.
- In addition to acting, she’s taken on roles as a director and producer for different projects, which has really boosted her earnings and impact in the entertainment industry.
- JoBeth and her husband John Pasquin have been involved in some impressive real estate deals, like selling a Bel-Air estate, which has definitely added to their wealth.
- When it comes to fundraising and grant-writing, she really knows her stuff. She’s got a solid track record of raising substantial capital campaign funds, showing that she’s actively engaged in both business and philanthropic efforts, not just in the entertainment world.
- Other Ventures: Although there aren’t many publicly documented startups or business ventures directly linked to her, her involvement in various industry roles, like her leadership in the Screen Actors Guild Foundation, hints at a range of income sources connected to the entertainment industry and charitable efforts.
Real State Ownership and Properties
- Back in 1997, JoBeth Williams and her husband John Pasquin bought a spacious 2.5-acre estate in Bel Air, Los Angeles, for around $6 million. This Mediterranean-style villa, crafted by the well-known architect Gerard Colcord, boasts a range of luxurious amenities. It includes seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a guesthouse, staff quarters, and a stunning resort-style pool.
- Back in January 2020, they put this amazing Bel Air property on the market for almost $30 million, showing just how much real estate values have gone up. This home has some really elegant living spaces, featuring beamed ceilings, cozy stone fireplaces, a formal dining area, a billiards room, and beautifully manicured gardens.
- After that, the couple sold their Bel Air home for $18.5 million in late 2020.
- That year, they bought a new Italianate-style home in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood for $9.8 million. This spacious 6,000-square-foot home features four bedrooms and six bathrooms, along with a wine cellar, library, office, and gym. You’ll also find multiple fireplaces, a swimming pool, and plenty of outdoor living space to enjoy.
Personal Life
- JoBeth Williams has been happily married to director and producer John Pasquin since March 14, 1982. Their marriage has lasted more than forty years, showcasing a solid personal and professional bond.
- The couple has two sons, Will and Nick Pasquin. Also, John Pasquin has a daughter named Sarah from a previous marriage, which means JoBeth is a stepmother too.
- JoBeth Williams comes from a family with her parents being Frances Fay Adams and Frederic Roger Williams. Not much is known about her siblings, as she likes to keep her family life under wraps.
- JoBeth and John have worked together on a few projects, like the TV series “The Client” from 1995 to 1996, showing how their personal and professional lives have intertwined.
- JoBeth Williams is known for being professional and keeping her personal life private. She steers clear of public scandals and puts her energy into her career and family.
- Philanthropy and Leadership: Since 2009, she’s been the president of the Screen Actors Guild Foundation, showing her dedication to helping actors and giving back to the arts community.
Career Journey
- JoBeth Williams kicked off her acting career in the early 1970s, making her mark on various television series and soap operas. She became quite well-known for her role as Brandy Schlooe in the soap opera Guiding Light, which she was part of from 1977 to 1981.
- So, her first big film was in the well-known Kramer vs. Kramer back in 1979, which really got people talking. She showed her range by taking on roles in comedies like Stir Crazy (1980) and really made a name for herself as Diane Freeling in the horror classic Poltergeist (1982) and its sequel, Poltergeist II (1986). Some other notable films are The Big Chill from 1983 and Teachers from 1984.
- Television Acclaim (1980s – 1990s): Williams snagged three Primetime Emmy nominations for his roles in TV films and series like Adam (1983), Baby M (1988), and even made a guest appearance on Frasier (1994). She was in the legal drama series The Client from 1995 to 1996.
- In 1994: She stepped into the director’s chair for the first time with her short film On Hope, and it even snagged an Academy Award nomination for Best Live Action Short Film.
- Throughout the 2000s to the 2020s: Williams kept showing up on our screens, taking on a variety of mature and complex characters. You might remember him from popular shows like Dexter in 2007 and Private Practice from 2009 to 2011. She embraced motherly and important supporting roles in films, making a name for herself as a well-respected character actress.
- Leadership and Philanthropy: JoBeth has been the president of the Screen Actors Guild Foundation since 2009, making a real impact in the acting community.
- In recent years, she’s been keeping busy with film and TV projects. You might have seen her in movies like Cash for Gold (2024), and she’s also staying involved in theater and other creative pursuits.
Television Work & Recurring Roles
Along with popular TV movies like Adam and Baby M, Williams also appeared in series such as The Client (1995–96) and Payne (1999). He had recurring roles in shows like Dexter, Private Practice, Hart of Dixie, and Your Family or Mine. Her guest appearance on Frasier in 1994 got her an Emmy nomination, which really highlighted her versatility.
Directorial Ventures & Industry Influence
Williams made her directorial debut with the short film On Hope in 1994, and it even got nominated for an Academy Award, showcasing her talent behind the camera. As the President (and now President Emeritus) of the SAG Foundation, she has been at the forefront of initiatives that support and uplift performing artists.
Legacy, Awards, and Impact
Legacy
JoBeth Williams has had an impressive career that stretches over fifty years, and she’s recognized for her ability to shine in both film and television. She’s particularly remembered for her iconic roles in Poltergeist and The Big Chill, which really helped shape the landscape of 1980s cinema. She’s had a really impressive career, juggling acting, directing, and producing, all while taking on a leadership role in the Screen Actors Guild Foundation. Williams has really made a mark in the world of storytelling, especially when it comes to creating strong characters and improving how women are represented in Hollywood.
Awards & Recognitions
She’s picked up quite a few impressive awards, including:
- In 1995, I was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film for my work as a director on On Hope.
- She received three Primetime Emmy Award nominations: one for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Special for “Adam” in 1983, another for “Baby M” in 1988, and one for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series for “Frasier” in 1995.
- So, there was a Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Performance by an Actress in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television for Baby M back in 1989.
- Got a Saturn Award nomination for Best Actress for Poltergeist back in 1983.
- Kansas City Film Critics Circle Award for Best Actress for American Dreamer in 1985.
- I received the Career Achievement Award from WorldFest Houston back in 2002.
Received the Award of Excellence from Bearfest at the Big Bear Lake International Film Festival in 2002.
Impact
Aside from her impressive artistic accomplishments, Williams has really stepped up as a strong supporter for actors and the arts community. She’s been serving as the president, and later as President Emeritus, of the Screen Actors Guild Foundation since 2009. She really shows her commitment to helping others grow and supporting her fellow actors, which highlights her important role in the film and television world.
Physical Measurements
- Height: 5 feet 7 inches (1.70 meters)
- Weight: Approximately 119 pounds (54 kilograms)
- Body Measurements: Bust 34 inches, Waist 24 inches, Hips 35 inches (86.5-61-89 cm)
- Bra Size: 32B
- Hair Color: Dark Brown
- Eye Color: Light Brown
Struggles with Mental Health, Addiction & Homelessness
JoBeth Williams opened up about her family history, mentioning that her dad, a part-time opera singer, faced challenges with alcoholism and bitterness, which ultimately led to his passing when she was just 16. Throughout her career, she has pulled from her own experiences, like dealing with depression after several miscarriages. This has really added depth and empathy to her roles that tackle emotional and psychological challenges.
She’s taken on some really intricate characters and tackled themes around mental health. For instance, she played a child psychologist in the film Child in the Night, which dives into issues like childhood trauma, anxiety, and PTSD. She really dives deep into mental health struggles in her work, drawing from her own life experiences.
Even though there aren’t any public reports of her dealing with addiction or homelessness herself, it’s obvious that she really understands these struggles through her roles and interviews. JoBeth has also been active in charitable work with the Screen Actors Guild Foundation, lending a hand to actors who are going through tough times. This really shows her commitment to supporting those who are struggling with mental health and other personal challenges.
Current Status
By 2025, JoBeth Williams is still a well-known and respected presence in the entertainment world. Even though she has fewer leading roles now compared to the start of her career, she’s still keeping busy with work in both TV and film. She has transitioned from leading roles to taking on more mature, character-focused parts, including recurring roles in well-known TV shows like Dexter and Private Practice.
Williams has made a smooth shift into directing too, with her short film On Hope even snagging an Academy Award nomination. She’s also the President Emeritus of the Screen Actors Guild Foundation, showing her leadership and generosity in the acting community.
Even though things in Hollywood have changed, particularly when it comes to age and the roles available for actresses, JoBeth Williams keeps a consistent presence in the industry by choosing her acting roles carefully, directing, and mentoring others. People really admire her for being so versatile, professional, and for all the great things she keeps doing in the arts.
Public Perception & Media Coverage
- JoBeth Williams is a talented and versatile actress, celebrated for her memorable roles in classic films like Kramer vs. Kramer, Poltergeist, and The Big Chill. She can really shine in all kinds of genres, whether it’s horror, drama, or comedy, and that’s earned her a lot of respect in the industry.
- She’s been nominated for three Primetime Emmy Awards, which really shows how much people appreciate her strong performances, particularly in TV movies and guest roles.
- Media outlets often shine a light on her as a beloved figure from those classic 1980s films. They love to talk about her ongoing contributions, not just as an actress but also as a leader in the acting community, especially with her work at the Screen Actors Guild Foundation.
- People see Williams as someone who’s professional, relatable, and really dedicated to what she does. She keeps a pretty low profile, which has really helped her steer clear of scandals and keep a good public image over her long career.
- Williams is still closely linked to her role as Diane Freeling in Poltergeist, a film that continues to be celebrated and talked about over 40 years after it came out, keeping her presence alive in popular culture.
- She really loves theater! In interviews and profiles, people often highlight her dedication to acting, showing that her commitment goes beyond just the usual film and TV roles.
FAQs
How old is JoBeth Williams in 2025?
JoBeth Williams was born on December 6, 1948, so she’ll be 76 years old in 2025.
Is JoBeth Williams still active in acting?
Absolutely! JoBeth Williams is still going strong in the entertainment world, taking on recent film roles and making appearances. She’s still involved in theater and shows up at public events.
What are some of JoBeth Williams’ most famous roles?
She’s really famous for her performances in Poltergeist (1982), The Big Chill (1983), and Kramer vs. Kramer (1979). She was in TV series like The Client and popped up in guest roles on Dexter and Frasier.
Has JoBeth Williams received any awards or nominations?
She’s received three Emmy Award nominations and even got an Academy Award nod for her directing debut with the short film On Hope back in 1994.
Who is JoBeth Williams married to?
She’s been happily married to director and producer John Pasquin since 1982. They’ve got two sons together.
What leadership roles does JoBeth Williams hold
Williams has been the President and later the President Emeritus of the Screen Actors Guild Foundation, where he’s made a big impact in helping actors and others in the industry.
Did JoBeth Williams do anything besides acting?
Absolutely, she’s not just a director but also a leader in the acting community, thanks to her involvement with the SAG Foundation.
Where was JoBeth Williams born?
She hails from Houston, Texas, USA.
What is JoBeth Williams’ estimated net worth?
As of 2025, her net worth is estimated to be around $50 million, thanks to her long career in film and TV, directing, and some savvy investments.
Conclusion
JoBeth Williams is the perfect example of a Hollywood multi-hyphenate. She’s not just an acclaimed actress; she’s also a respected director and an influential leader in the industry. She’s got an estimated net worth of $50 million, has made creative contributions for decades, and is still going strong in 2025. Her legacy is definitely secure and truly inspiring. Williams is always active, both on screen and off, showing just how versatile and determined she is in the entertainment world. If you liked this deep dive, drop a comment below, share your favorite JoBeth Williams moment, and follow along for more profiles that highlight experience, expertise, authority, and trust in entertainment.
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