Bill Murray, the legendary actor, comedian, and writer, is one of the most recognizable figures in Hollywood. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $30 million, a reflection of his decades-long career in entertainment and business ventures.
Early Life and Education
Born on September 21, 1950, in Evanston, Illinois, William James Murray grew up in Wilmette, a suburb of Chicago, with his eight siblings. Raised in a devout Irish-Catholic family, Murray developed an early love for American folklore, reading biographies of historical figures like Kit Carson and Davy Crockett.
Murray attended Loyola Academy, a Jesuit high school, where he caddied at local golf courses to help fund his education. His talents extended beyond academics; he was the lead singer of a rock band called the Dutch Masters and participated in high school and community theater.
After graduation, Murray enrolled at Regis University in Denver, Colorado, with plans to pursue medicine. However, he dropped out and returned to Illinois, where a fateful arrest for attempting to smuggle cannabis led him to reconsider his path. Soon after, he joined Chicago’s renowned improvisational comedy troupe, The Second City, at the suggestion of his brother.
The Rise to Fame: Saturday Night Live and Hollywood Breakthrough
Murray’s career took off when he joined “The National Lampoon Radio Hour” in New York, where he worked alongside comedy legends like John Belushi. His major breakthrough came when he joined “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) in its second season, stepping in after Chevy Chase’s departure. Murray’s three seasons on SNL (1977-1980) showcased his improvisational brilliance and cemented his place as a comedy icon.
His transition to film was equally successful. In 1979, he starred in “Meatballs,” which became a sleeper hit. However, it was “Ghostbusters” (1984) that propelled him into superstardom. The supernatural comedy grossed nearly $300 million worldwide and became the highest-grossing film of that year.
Diversifying Roles and Career Choices
Following the massive success of “Ghostbusters,” Murray pursued more eclectic roles. He starred in “The Razor’s Edge” (1984), a dramatic departure from his usual comedic fare, although it was not a commercial success. Disheartened, he took a brief hiatus to study philosophy and history at the Sorbonne in Paris.
Murray returned to the big screen with hits like “Scrooged” (1988) and “Ghostbusters II” (1989). He also co-directed “Quick Change” (1990), his only directorial effort to date.
Throughout the 1990s, Murray balanced mainstream comedies like “What About Bob?” (1991) and “Groundhog Day” (1993) with indie films and ensemble casts. His performance in Wes Anderson’s “Rushmore” (1998) earned him widespread critical acclaim and a Best Supporting Actor award, paving the way for more dramatic roles.
Critical Acclaim and Awards
Murray reached a career pinnacle with “Lost in Translation” (2003), directed by Sofia Coppola. His portrayal of a melancholic actor in Tokyo earned him a Golden Globe, a BAFTA Award for Best Actor, and an Academy Award nomination.
He has since appeared in several critically acclaimed films, including “Broken Flowers” (2005), “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou” (2004), “Moonrise Kingdom” (2012), and “St. Vincent” (2014). Murray won a Primetime Emmy for his role in HBO’s “Olive Kitteridge” (2014) and received the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2016.
Business Ventures and Other Interests
Beyond acting, Murray is a savvy businessman. He co-owns Murray Bros. Caddy Shack, a popular restaurant near St. Augustine, Florida, with his brothers. He also holds stakes in two minor league baseball teams: the St. Paul Saints and the Charleston RiverDogs.
His investments extend to real estate and other entrepreneurial ventures, although he has remained relatively private about his full portfolio. Despite his wealth, Murray is famously elusive, often choosing roles based on personal interest rather than financial incentive.
Salary and Earnings
Murray’s financial success stems from both acting and business. He earned $8 million for “What About Bob?” and $10 million for “Groundhog Day.” His “Ghostbusters” paycheck, including backend profits, remains one of his most lucrative deals.
His net worth also reflects his ability to balance blockbuster roles with passion projects. Whether starring in Wes Anderson films or lending his voice to animated hits like “The Fantastic Mr. Fox” and “The Jungle Book,” Murray’s choices have ensured both critical and commercial success.
Personal Life and Legacy
Bill Murray’s personal life is marked by his humility and eccentricity. Married twice, Murray has six children and divides his time between residences in South Carolina, New York, and Massachusetts.
Despite controversies surrounding his unpredictable on-set behavior, Murray remains a beloved figure in Hollywood. His influence extends beyond acting, shaping how modern comedians approach their craft.
As of 2025, at age 74, Murray continues to work selectively, focusing on projects that align with his artistic sensibilities. His enduring appeal lies in his ability to balance humor with humanity, leaving a lasting legacy in both film and comedy.
