Jonathan Vincent Voight, born on December 29, 1938, in Yonkers, New York, is an iconic American actor whose career spans over six decades. Known for his versatility across film and television, Voight has delivered memorable performances in classics like Midnight Cowboy, Coming Home, and Runaway Train, earning both critical acclaim and a lasting legacy in Hollywood.
Quick Facts of Jon Voight
| Full Name | Jonathan Vincent Voight |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 29, 1938 |
| Place of Birth | Yonkers, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | B.A. in Drama, The Catholic University of America |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 1960s–present |
| Notable Works | Midnight Cowboy, Coming Home, Runaway Train, Deliverance |
| Spouse | Marcheline Bertrand (ex-wife) |
| Children | Angelina Jolie, James Haven |
| Net Worth | $55 million |
| Awards | Academy Award for Best Actor, 4 Golden Globes |
Early Life and Family Background
Jon Voight was born to Barbara and Elmer Voight, growing up in a culturally rich environment. His father was a professional golfer, and his mother had a strong interest in the arts. Jon has two brothers: Barry Voight, a geologist, and Chip Taylor, a songwriter famous for hits like “Wild Thing.”
He discovered his passion for acting while at Archbishop Stepinac High School and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in Drama from The Catholic University of America. Early theater training gave him the foundation to become one of Hollywood’s most respected actors.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Voight’s early career included theater and television roles in the 1960s, with a Broadway debut in The Sound of Music (1961) as Captain Von Trapp. His breakout film role came as Joe Buck in Midnight Cowboy (1969), earning critical acclaim and his first Academy Award nomination.
In 1972, Voight starred in the survival drama Deliverance, showcasing his intensity and range. His performance in Coming Home (1978) as Luke Martin, a paralyzed Vietnam War veteran, won him the Academy Award for Best Actor, cementing his status as a Hollywood heavyweight.
Other notable films include Runaway Train (1985), Heat (1995), Mission: Impossible (1996), and Ali (2001), where he portrayed broadcaster Howard Cosell.
Television Success
Voight’s portrayal of Mickey Donovan in Ray Donovan earned him widespread acclaim and a Golden Globe Award. His television roles added depth to his career, blending raw intensity with complex characters, and reinforcing his versatility as an actor.
Personal Life and Relationships
Voight married actress Marcheline Bertrand in 1971, with whom he had two children: Angelina Jolie and James Haven. The couple divorced in 1980.
His relationship with Angelina was strained for many years but later reconciled. Voight has remained private about other romantic relationships in recent years while expressing pride in his children’s successes, particularly Angelina’s humanitarian work.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Jon Voight’s estimated net worth is $55 million, earned through decades in film, television, endorsements, and investments. He owns properties in Los Angeles and is known for his passion for classic cars. Despite his wealth, Voight remains grounded, prioritizing family and the craft of acting over fame.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Voight was considered for Superman (1978), a role later played by Christopher Reeve.
- He is the father of Oscar-winning actress Angelina Jolie.
- Known for political activism, often sharing conservative views publicly.
- Supports veterans, children’s welfare, and disaster relief through charitable work.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Voight has contributed to charities like Operation Smile and the American Red Cross, supporting children’s health and veteran services. His legacy is defined by versatility, resilience, and dedication to acting, influencing generations of performers and filmmakers.
Current Relevance and Future Plans
Even in his 80s, Voight continues acting in films such as Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and reprising his role in Ray Donovan. His influence on pop culture is enduring, inspiring actors and filmmakers while maintaining his commitment to challenging, socially relevant projects.
