Bob Gunton, a seasoned American character actor, is widely recognized for his compelling portrayals of stern and often authoritarian figures. Best known for his unforgettable role as Warden Samuel Norton in the 1994 classic The Shawshank Redemption, Gunton has built a legacy of performances that span stage, television, and film. With a career stretching over five decades, Gunton has become a familiar face in Hollywood and Broadway alike, earning critical acclaim and fan admiration.
As interest grows in understanding Bob Gunton’s net worth, fans and industry observers alike want to know how this veteran actor has accumulated wealth through roles in major productions, including appearances in cult favorites like Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, and even Desperate Housewives. His career is a testament to the enduring power of talent, professionalism, and versatility in the entertainment industry.
Bob Gunton Quick Bio
Field | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Robert Patrick Gunton Jr. |
Famous As | Actor known for The Shawshank Redemption (Warden Samuel Norton) |
Date of Birth | November 15, 1945 |
Age (As of 2025) | 79 years old |
Place of Birth | Santa Monica, California, USA |
Nationality | American |
Height | 1.87 m (6 ft 2 in) |
Parents | Robert Patrick Gunton Sr. (father), Rose Marie Banovetz (mother) |
Spouse(s) | Carey Pitts Gunton (m. 2006–present), Annie McGreevey (m. 1980–2006) |
Children | Olivia Gunton |
Education | Paulist Seminary St. Peter’s College; University of California, Irvine |
Occupation | Actor (Film, TV, and Stage) |
Notable Works | The Shawshank Redemption, Ace Ventura, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, 24 |
Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $3 million – $5 million |
Social Media | Not active publicly |
Known For | Playing authoritative figures in film and television |
Early Life and Background
Robert Patrick Gunton Jr. was born on November 15, 1945, in Santa Monica, California, to a working-class family with strong Catholic values. His father, Robert Patrick Gunton Sr., was a labor union executive, and his mother, Rose Marie Banovetz, provided a nurturing presence that emphasized discipline and education.

Gunton attended Paulist Seminary St. Peter’s College, intending to become a priest, before shifting his focus to acting. He later studied at the University of California, Irvine, where he refined his craft and laid the groundwork for his future in performance arts. His early life was shaped by service, faith, and a deep commitment to education—all qualities that later translated into the disciplined, often intense characters he brought to life on screen.
How Old is Bob Gunton?
As of 2025, Bob Gunton is 79 years old. He was born on November 15, 1945, which places him among a distinguished generation of American actors who came of age during the transformative decades of the 20th century.
Despite his age, Gunton has remained active in various acting projects, both on television and in film. His longevity in the industry is a testament not just to his talent but also to his adaptability and dedication to the craft.
Parents – The Pillars of His Upbringing
Bob Gunton’s parents played a significant role in shaping his values and early worldview:
- Father: Robert Patrick Gunton Sr.
A labor union executive, his father’s profession likely exposed Bob to themes of leadership, discipline, and social responsibility—traits often reflected in the roles Bob would later portray. - Mother: Rose Marie Banovetz
Known for her strong moral compass and devotion to family, Rose Marie instilled in Bob a sense of emotional resilience and intellectual curiosity.
Together, his parents supported his academic and spiritual journey, even when he eventually transitioned from the seminary path to the performing arts.
Spouse – Bob Gunton’s Marital Journey
Bob Gunton Has Been Married Twice:

Annie McGreevey – His first marriage began in 1980 and lasted until 2006. McGreevey is also an actress, and the couple had one child together, Olivia Gunton.

Carey Pitts Gunton – He married Carey in 2006, and the two have maintained a relatively private yet steady relationship.
Gunton’s personal life, though not frequently publicized, reflects a man who values stability and privacy, even in the face of fame.
Bob Gunton Net Worth – A Breakdown of His Financial Success
As of 2025, Bob Gunton net worth is estimated to be between $3 million and $5 million. This wealth has been amassed through a decades-long acting career across multiple platforms—stage, television, and film.
Sources of income include:
- Major Hollywood productions like The Shawshank Redemption
- Long-term TV roles
- Broadway performances (e.g., Evita)
- Syndication royalties
- Possible investments or voice acting
His role as Warden Norton in The Shawshank Redemption remains one of his most financially impactful performances, thanks to the film’s enduring popularity and frequent replays across networks. Additional contributions from roles in TV shows and minor but significant appearances in franchises like Ghostbusters have further padded his earnings.
Personal Life and Relationships
Gunton has always maintained a low-key personal life, preferring to let his work speak for itself. His relationships with both of his spouses have stayed largely out of the spotlight, and his daughter, Olivia Gunton, has also avoided public life.

The actor is known among peers as reserved, highly professional, and deeply introspective—traits that echo the measured intensity he brings to the screen.
Business Ventures and Endorsements
There is no public record of Bob Gunton launching any businesses or engaging in brand endorsements. Unlike many Hollywood personalities who diversify their income streams through commercial ventures, Gunton appears to have stayed committed to the performing arts exclusively.
His financial success appears to have been built solely through his acting portfolio, which speaks to his consistency and success within that domain.
Social Media Presence
Bob Gunton is not active on social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, or YouTube. His absence from digital platforms aligns with his overall private demeanor, distinguishing him from a younger generation of actors who rely heavily on digital branding.
For fans seeking updates, most news about Gunton comes through entertainment news outlets, fan forums, or official film/TV credits.
Hobbies and Interests
While Bob Gunton hasn’t publicly spoken extensively about his hobbies, it is known that he has a deep appreciation for theater, classical music, and literature. His early seminary background also suggests an interest in theology and philosophy, and he has been described as intellectually curious and spiritually reflective.
Gunton’s deep voice and commanding presence are no accident—they are likely the result of years of vocal training and discipline, possibly linked to his early aspirations in religious oratory.
Bob Gunton in Ace Ventura: A Memorable Cameo
Bob Gunton appeared in the 1995 comedy sequel Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, starring Jim Carrey. Although his role was brief, it showcased his ability to transition into comedic territory—a refreshing departure from his usual authoritarian roles.
His portrayal, while secondary, added depth to a chaotic and humorous plot. For fans of Ace Ventura, his presence offered a moment of grounding seriousness, which only enhanced the comedic contrast of the film.
Bob Gunton in Ghostbusters: Exploring His Role
Gunton had a minor but notable part in Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021). Although not one of the main cast, his inclusion in the franchise signaled Hollywood’s continued appreciation for veteran character actors. His performance added credibility and gravitas to a film already steeped in nostalgic significance.
Searches like “bob gunton ghostbusters” reflect fan interest in spotting him across genres, even in roles that aren’t front and center.
Bob Gunton’s Television Work: Desperate Housewives and Beyond
One of Gunton’s most surprising yet acclaimed television appearances was in Desperate Housewives. Playing a recurring character, he added depth and tension to the already dramatic series, proving once again that his acting versatility extended beyond courtroom and prison drama.
The keyword “bob gunton desperate housewives” continues to trend in search due to fans recognizing his face and digging deeper into his acting catalog.
Bob Gunton Movies and TV Shows – A Rich Legacy
Over the decades, Bob Gunton has amassed an impressive list of movie and TV credits, including:
- The Shawshank Redemption (1994) – Warden Samuel Norton
- Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls (1995)
- Demolition Man (1993)
- The Glimmer Man (1996)
- Fracture (2007)
- 24 (TV Series) – Secretary of Defense Ethan Kanin
- Desperate Housewives (TV Series)
- Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021)
These roles not only define his range as an actor but also serve as pillars in understanding his financial and professional growth. Whether he’s delivering chilling monologues or adding structure to ensemble casts, Gunton’s screen presence is always impactful.
Conclusion – A Career Built on Talent, Consistency, and Respect
Bob Gunton’s journey is not one marked by loud headlines but by consistent, high-quality work across film, television, and stage. From Broadway stages to box office hits, he has earned a reputation for delivering performances that are both memorable and grounded in authenticity.
His net worth is a reflection of decades of dedication to acting, without the distractions of side hustles or media antics. In a world of fleeting fame, Bob Gunton stands out as a model of professionalism and sustained artistic integrity.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions About Bob Gunton
Q1: What is Bob Gunton’s net worth in 2025?
A: His net worth is estimated to be between $3 million and $5 million.
Q2: What is Bob Gunton best known for?
A: He is best known for playing Warden Samuel Norton in The Shawshank Redemption.
Q3: Did Bob Gunton appear in Ace Ventura?
A: Yes, he had a minor but memorable role in Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls.
Q4: Was Bob Gunton in Ghostbusters?
A: He appeared in Ghostbusters: Afterlife in a supporting role.
Q5: Is Bob Gunton married?
A: Yes, he is currently married to Carey Pitts Gunton. He was previously married to Annie McGreevey.
Q6: Does Bob Gunton have children?
A: Yes, he has one daughter named Olivia Gunton.
Q7: Does Bob Gunton use social media?
A: No, he is not active on any public social media platforms.
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