David Caruso Net Worth, Personal Life, Career, Bio [2024]

David Caruso, a household name in television, is renowned for roles that defined crime dramas. His portrayal of Detective John Kelly in “NYPD Blue” and Lieutenant Horatio Caine in “CSI: Miami” earned him admiration and recognition. Caruso’s acting career is marked by determination, a sharp focus on craft, and the ability to bring characters to life with depth and realism.

Born and raised in New York, Caruso didn’t have an easy start. His journey to stardom was full of hurdles and professional challenges. Yet, his passion for acting kept him motivated even in his teenage years. Over the years, he evolved into a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, with fans across the globe. This article uncovers Caruso’s personal and professional life, from his formative years and big breaks to his relationships and ventures beyond acting.

Name	David Stephen Caruso
Date of Birth	January 7, 1956
Age	68 (as of 2024)
Profession	Actor, Businessman
Notable TV Roles	Detective John Kelly (NYPD Blue), Lieutenant Horatio Caine (CSI: Miami)
Film Appearances	An Officer and a Gentleman, First Blood, Kiss of Death, Proof of Life
Net Worth	Approximately $35 million

Early Life

David Caruso was born on January 7, 1956, in Forest Hills, Queens, New York. Growing up in a Roman Catholic household, he was raised by his mother, Joan, a librarian, after his father, Charles, a magazine and newspaper editor, left the family when Caruso was only two. This early departure by his father left a lasting impact, with Caruso often saying he “had to father himself.” This experience, however, seemed to fuel his ambition and independence, shaping his character both on and off-screen.

Caruso attended Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Catholic School and later Archbishop Molloy High School, where he graduated in 1974. During these years, his interest in acting began to blossom. As a teenager, he worked as a cinema usher, watching hundreds of movies while absorbing the craft and presence of Hollywood stars. This exposure to classic cinema inspired him and introduced him to the artistry of film, instilling in him a strong desire to pursue acting.

Career

David Caruso’s career journey began humbly in the early 1980s with minor roles in films such as An Officer and a Gentleman and First Blood. While these roles were small, they offered him initial exposure to Hollywood and helped him build valuable industry connections. Caruso’s dedication soon paid off, as he secured a breakthrough role in the popular television series NYPD Blue in 1993.

Caruso’s portrayal of Detective John Kelly in NYPD Blue instantly captivated audiences and earned him widespread acclaim. His performance was celebrated for its realism and intensity, which eventually led him to win a Golden Globe Award. Despite the success, Caruso left NYPD Blue after only one season due to unsuccessful salary negotiations. His decision to depart at the peak of the show’s popularity shocked fans and critics alike and marked a risky career move.

In 2002, Caruso returned to television with CSI: Miami, where he played Lieutenant Horatio Caine, a role that would redefine his career. His portrayal of Caine became iconic, known for its dramatic one-liners and unforgettable sunglasses move. CSI: Miami enjoyed ten successful seasons, making Caruso a television legend. His role in the series brought him new levels of fame and financial success, solidifying his place in TV history.

Net Worth and Sources of Income

As of 2024, David Caruso’s net worth is estimated to be around $35 million. Much of this wealth stems from his prominent roles in NYPD Blue and CSI: Miami, where he became one of the highest-paid television actors of his time.

During his peak years on CSI: Miami, Caruso was reportedly earning up to $375,000 per episode. This substantial salary not only provided him with financial stability but also allowed him to invest in ventures beyond acting. His decision to leave NYPD Blue early might have been a setback at the time, yet his comeback with CSI: Miami proved financially rewarding, ultimately securing his position as a television heavyweight.

Outside of acting, Caruso has diversified his income sources. After retiring from television, he ventured into the art business and co-owns a clothing store named “Steam on Sunset” in South Miami. These business pursuits demonstrate his interest in entrepreneurial endeavors, allowing him to maintain financial growth even after stepping away from the screen.

Personal Life

David Caruso’s personal life has been as eventful as his career, marked by multiple relationships and notable legal matters. He has been married three times. His first marriage to actress Cheri Maugans lasted from 1979 to 1984. After their split, Caruso married Rachel Ticotin, another actress known for her role in Total Recall. They were together from 1984 to 1987 and share a daughter, Greta, born during their marriage.

In 1996, Caruso married Margaret Buckley. This marriage also ended in divorce in 2007, adding to the complex dynamics of his personal life. In addition to his marriages, Caruso had a long-term relationship with Liza Marquez. Although they never married, the couple had two children, Marquez and Paloma, before their relationship ended on challenging terms.

After their split, Marquez filed a lawsuit against Caruso, alleging fraud, breach of their settlement agreement, and infliction of emotional distress. This legal battle became public, highlighting some of the personal struggles Caruso faced outside his acting career.

Frequently Asked Questions [F.A.Q]

What is David Caruso’s current occupation?

Since retiring from acting in 2012, David Caruso has focused on business ventures. He is involved in the art world and co-owns a clothing store in South Miami called “Steam on Sunset.” These pursuits enable him to remain professionally active while staying out of the spotlight, allowing him to pursue his interests outside of acting in a fulfilling way.

What is David Caruso’s Net Worth?

As of 2024, David Caruso’s net worth is estimated to be around $35 million. Much of this wealth stems from his prominent roles in NYPD Blue and CSI: Miami, where he became one of the highest-paid television actors of his time.

What are some notable films David Caruso has appeared in?

Caruso’s film career includes roles in An Officer and a Gentleman, First Blood, Kiss of Death, and Proof of Life. Although he gained greater recognition on television, these films showcase his versatility as an actor and provide insight into his work before he became a TV icon.

Wrapping Up

David Caruso’s life and career are a fascinating journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of television’s most memorable actors. Known for his dedication and distinct on-screen presence, Caruso’s portrayals of Detective John Kelly and Lieutenant Horatio Caine have left an enduring mark on the genre of crime drama. His career path, though marked by bold choices and occasional setbacks, showcases his resilience and willingness to take risks.

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