Dennis Quaid Biography
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Dennis William Quaid |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 9, 1954 |
| Age | 72 years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Houston, Texas, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actor, musician |
| Years Active | 1975-present |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) |
| Spouse | Married Laura Savoie (2020-present) |
| Children | 3 |
| Net Worth | ~$45 million |
| Known For | The Right Stuff, The Parent Trap, Far from Heaven, The Rookie |
Early Life & Background
Quaid grew up in a Baptist household; his mother was a real-estate agent and his father an electrician. He attended the University of Houston but dropped out to pursue acting, following in the footsteps of older brother Randy Quaid.
Career Journey
Early Career
Quaid's breakout came with the astronaut drama The Right Stuff, where he played Gordon Cooper. His charisma carried comedic sci-fi (Innerspace) and romantic dramas (The Big Easy).
Established Career
Quaid received critical acclaim for Far from Heaven (2002), earning Golden Globe and SAG nominations. He starred in sports drama The Rookie, family hit The Parent Trap, disaster movie The Day After Tomorrow, and faith-based films like I Can Only Imagine. In 2026 he leads the Paramount+ series American Outlaw and tours with his band Dennis Quaid & The Sharks promoting a gospel-blues album.
Filmography (Selected)
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1983 | The Right Stuff | Gordon Cooper | Breakthrough |
| 1987 | Innerspace | Lt. Tuck Pendleton | Sci-fi comedy |
| 1998 | The Parent Trap | Nick Parker | Family classic |
| 2002 | Far from Heaven | Frank Whitaker | Award-winning drama |
| 2002 | The Rookie | Jim Morris | Inspirational sports film |
| 2004 | The Day After Tomorrow | Jack Hall | Disaster blockbuster |
| 2019 | A Dog's Journey | Ethan Montgomery | Family sequel |
| 2026 | American Outlaw (series) | Wes Hardin | In production |
Awards & Nominations
| Year | Award | Category | Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Golden Globe Awards | Best Supporting Actor | Far from Heaven | Nominated |
| 2003 | Screen Actors Guild Awards | Outstanding Supporting Actor | Far from Heaven | Nominated |
| 2010 | Emmy Awards | Outstanding Lead Actor (TV Movie) | The Special Relationship | Nominated |
| 2011 | Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame | Motion Pictures | Career | Honored |
Net Worth & Income Sources
Estimated Net Worth: ~$45 million (2026)
Quaid earns from film salaries, television projects, touring with his band, and investments in Austin real estate and aviation ventures. He endorses health supplements and partners with outdoor brands.
Personal Life
Quaid has been married four times and maintains close relationships with his children, including actor Jack Quaid. He lives between Nashville and Los Angeles, flying his own plane to sets and writing gospel-inspired songs.
Philanthropy & Advocacy
He supports international charity World Vision, advocates for neonatal healthcare after his twins survived a hospital medication overdose, and donates to veterans and addiction-recovery programs. Quaid launched the podcast The Pet Project to help shelter animals find homes.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram: @dennisquaid shares tour dates, film updates, and family moments.
- Facebook: Official page promotes music releases and charity initiatives.
Lesser-Known Facts
- Quaid is a licensed pilot and accomplished golfer.
- He authored the 2024 memoir Stories from the Road, blending acting tales with spiritual reflections.
- He practices transcendental meditation and credits it for long-term sobriety.
- Quaid voice-acts for animated series, including narrating ESPN's Big Shot.
Latest News & Updates (2026)
Quaid is shooting American Outlaw in New Mexico while recording a gospel-blues album produced by Dave Cobb. He is also executive-producing a biopic about musician Jerry Lee Lewis for Netflix.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Dennis Quaid?
Dennis Quaid is an American actor and musician known for films like The Right Stuff and The Parent Trap.
What is Dennis Quaid most famous for?
He is best known for charismatic roles in Innerspace, The Rookie, Far from Heaven, and numerous family dramas.
Is Dennis Quaid active on social media?
Yes. Quaid engages fans on Instagram and Facebook, promoting tours and charitable causes.