Eric Christian Olsen, born on May 31, 1977, in Eugene, Oregon, is a remarkable American actor with a net worth estimated at $13 million. Known for his dynamic portrayals across various genres, Olsen has become a household name, particularly for his role as Detective Marty Deeks in the CBS television series “NCIS: Los Angeles”. His career spans over two decades, showcasing his versatility and dedication to the craft of acting.
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Who is Eric Christian Olsen
Eric Christian Olsen is an American actor born on May 31, 1977, in Eugene, Oregon. He has built a successful career in both television and film, showcasing his versatility as an actor through a variety of roles. Olsen is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Investigator Marty Deeks on the CBS television series “NCIS: Los Angeles,” a role he has played since joining the show in its first season and becoming a series regular in the second season.
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Before his rise to fame on “NCIS: Los Angeles,” Olsen appeared in several movies and TV shows that helped establish his career in the entertainment industry. Some of his notable film roles include Austin in “Not Another Teen Movie” and Lloyd Christmas in “Dumb and Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd.” His early work also includes appearances on television shows such as “ER,” “The Loop,” and “Community,” where he often played comedic roles that showcased his range and timing.
Eric’s background is quite interesting. He was born to Jeanne (née Donstad), a non-denominational chaplain, and Paul V. Olsen, a professor of English, and head track and cross country coach. He has an older brother, David, who works as his stunt double and is married to Olsen’s “NCIS: Los Angeles” co-star, Daniela Ruah, making their professional and personal lives closely intertwined.
Olsen’s early life was spent in Bettendorf, Iowa, where he developed an interest in acting and participated in local theatre performances. He trained in improv with ComedySportz Quad Cities and pursued interests in sports and languages during his high school years. Despite starting college at Hope College in Holland, Michigan, he later moved to Los Angeles to attend Pepperdine University, though his acting career took off before he completed his degree.
Beyond acting, Olsen has shown interest in production and has worked behind the scenes on various projects. He is married to actress Sarah Wright, and the couple has three children. They are also known for their philanthropic efforts, particularly in environmental advocacy and cancer awareness. Eric Christian Olsen’s career, marked by a blend of comedic and dramatic roles, has made him a well-regarded figure in Hollywood.
Early Life and Education
Raised in a nurturing environment by his parents, Jeanne, a non-denominational chaplain, and Paul V. Olsen, a professor and coach, Eric’s childhood was rooted in Bettendorf, Iowa. He showed a broad range of interests from sports to languages and theater, reflecting his multifaceted personality. His brother, David Olsen, not only shares his journey in the entertainment industry as a stunt double but is also married to Eric’s co-star, Daniela Ruah, further intertwining their personal and professional lives.
Career and Success
Eric’s journey in the acting world began with roles in productions like “Arthur’s Quest” and a memorable appearance on “ER”. His big break came through the teen comedy “Not Another Teen Movie”, followed by roles in “The Hot Chick” and “Dumb and Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd”. His career trajectory continued upwards with significant roles in “Cellular”, “Beerfest”, and “The Last Kiss”, among others. His portrayal of Detective Marty Deeks in “NCIS: Los Angeles” has been a defining role, showcasing his adeptness at blending drama and humor.
Personal Life and Relationships
In 2012, Eric married actress Sarah Wright, and the couple has since welcomed three children, making family a central part of his life. Their shared passions and philanthropic efforts, particularly in environmental advocacy and cancer awareness, highlight their commitment to making a positive impact.
Eric Christian Olsen Net Worth
Eric Christian Olsen has an estimated net worth of $13 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his successful career as an actor in both television and film. Best known for his role as Detective Marty Deeks on the CBS television series “NCIS: Los Angeles”, Olsen has been a staple in the entertainment industry since the late 1990s. His performances in movies such as “Not Another Teen Movie,” “The Hot Chick,” and “Dumb and Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd,” along with his long-standing role in “NCIS: Los Angeles,” have significantly contributed to his financial success. Additionally, his involvement in various projects as a producer and his ventures into writing have also likely contributed to his net worth.
FAQs and Interesting Facts
- Is Eric Christian Olsen related to Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen? No, despite sharing a surname, Eric is not related to the Olsen twins.
- Are David Paul Olsen and Eric Olsen twins? No, David is Eric’s older brother and works as his stunt double.
- Does Eric Christian Olsen have any children? Yes, Eric and Sarah Wright have three children.
- Why is Eric Christian Olsen famous? Eric is primarily known for his role as Detective Marty Deeks on “NCIS: Los Angeles”.
- What is Eric Christian Olsen doing now? Beyond acting, Eric is involved in production and recently ventured into writing and producing for television.
- Eric Christian Olsen movies include notable titles like “Not Another Teen Movie”, “The Hot Chick”, and “Dumb and Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd”.
Conclusion
Eric Christian Olsen’s journey from a curious child in Iowa to a respected actor in Hollywood is a testament to his talent and hard work. With a net worth of $13 million, his career reflects significant achievements and contributions to the entertainment industry. As he continues to evolve as an actor, producer, and writer, Eric’s influence extends beyond the screen, making him a celebrated figure in and out of the limelight.
