Fred Savage is a name that resonates with fans of classic television, particularly those who grew up in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Best known for his iconic role as Kevin Arnold in the beloved television series The Wonder Years, Savage transitioned from a child star into a respected director and producer. Over the decades, Fred Savage has built a versatile career that extends far beyond acting. As of 2025, Fred Savage’s net worth is estimated to be around $14 million, thanks to a lifetime in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Fred Aaron Savage was born on July 9, 1976, in Highland Park, Illinois. He showed an early interest in acting, a passion supported by his family—his younger brother, Ben Savage, would also become a well-known actor. Fred began appearing in commercials and small television roles as a child.
His film debut came in 1986 with the fantasy movie The Boy Who Could Fly, but his first big break came just a year later with The Princess Bride (1987), in which he played the grandson being told the story. His performance in that cult classic brought him to the attention of casting directors and paved the way for his most famous role.
Breakthrough with The Wonder Years
At just 12 years old, Fred Savage landed the lead role of Kevin Arnold in The Wonder Years, a nostalgic coming-of-age series set in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The show debuted in 1988 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon.
Savage’s performance was critically acclaimed. He received several award nominations, including two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, making him the youngest actor ever nominated in that category at the time. He also won a Young Artist Award and two Viewers for Quality Television Awards.
The Wonder Years ran for six seasons until 1993, and during that time, Savage became one of the most recognized faces on American television. While child actors often struggle to transition to adult roles, Fred Savage chose a different path that would eventually expand his career.
Education and Career Transition
After the end of The Wonder Years, Savage took a step back from the limelight and focused on his education. He enrolled at Stanford University, where he studied English and graduated in 1999. This academic background played a crucial role in shaping his next phase in the entertainment world—not as an actor, but behind the scenes.
Directing and Producing: A Smart Career Pivot
Fred Savage made a calculated and successful shift into directing and producing. His early directorial efforts included episodes of well-known shows like Even Stevens and Drake & Josh, both major hits on the Disney Channel and Nickelodeon, respectively. He developed a reputation for being talented, efficient, and easy to work with—qualities that are invaluable in the industry.
Over time, Savage built an impressive resume, directing episodes of hit sitcoms like:
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Modern Family
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2 Broke Girls
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It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
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Party Down
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The Connors
He was also an executive producer and director for Phil of the Future, Wizards of Waverly Place, and Friends with Benefits. Perhaps most notably, he served as a producer and director for The Grinder, in which he also starred alongside Rob Lowe.
Savage's work behind the camera has been critically praised and commercially successful, solidifying his position as more than just a former child star. These roles have contributed significantly to his overall net worth.
Acting Comebacks and Voice Work
Though he largely transitioned to directing and producing, Fred Savage has not entirely stepped away from acting. He made guest appearances in popular shows like Law & Order: SVU, Family Guy, Boy Meets World (alongside his brother), and even took on more mature roles in films and TV movies.
He also did extensive voice work, including for animated shows like Oswald, a children’s series in which he voiced the titular character.
In 2015, he made a comeback to network television with The Grinder, which, although short-lived, was praised for its writing and performances. His comedic timing and chemistry with Rob Lowe were widely acknowledged.
Endorsements and Other Ventures
Fred Savage has appeared in various commercials and endorsements over the years, including for products like Nintendo, Honda, and Kodak during his youth. More recently, he’s participated in promotional campaigns for insurance and tech brands. While not the primary source of his wealth, these endeavors have added to his financial portfolio.
Additionally, Savage has dabbled in voice directing for animated shows and continued to act as a consultant for various productions—expanding his income streams even further.
Controversies and Career Setbacks
In 2022, Fred Savage faced controversy when he was fired from his executive producer and directing role for the reboot of The Wonder Years following allegations of inappropriate conduct on set. This was not the first time he had faced such allegations—there had been earlier accusations during the original run of The Wonder Years as well, though they were never proven.
The incident had an impact on his public image and may have temporarily affected some of his professional opportunities. However, as is often the case in Hollywood, reputations can be rehabilitated over time depending on public sentiment and future behavior.
Fred Savage Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Fred Savage’s net worth is estimated to be $14 million. This wealth has been accumulated from his:
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Acting career (especially The Wonder Years)
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Television directing and producing
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Voice acting and narration
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Endorsements and commercials
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Occasional guest appearances and film roles
Savage’s long-term involvement in Hollywood, paired with his adaptability and intelligence, has allowed him to maintain a steady income and build generational wealth. Unlike many child actors whose careers wane in adulthood, Fred Savage leveraged his early fame to carve out a more stable and lucrative career behind the camera.
Real Estate and Personal Life
Fred Savage reportedly owns property in the Los Angeles area, though he tends to keep his personal life private. He married Jennifer Lynn Stone in 2004, and the couple has three children. While not flamboyant with his wealth, Savage enjoys a comfortable lifestyle with his family and occasionally attends industry events.
Legacy and Impact
Fred Savage's legacy is unique. From being one of television's most iconic child stars to becoming a respected director and producer, his career has shown impressive versatility. He represents a rare success story of Hollywood child actors who not only survived fame but thrived in it by reinventing themselves.
Conclusion
Fred Savage's net worth of $14 million is a reflection of decades of consistent work, smart career moves, and a willingness to adapt. Whether remembered as Kevin Arnold or recognized for his directing prowess, Savage has solidified his place in Hollywood history—and his financial success underscores that achievement.
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