John Ratzenberger, one of the most recognizable voices and faces in entertainment history, has built a unique career that spans live-action sitcoms, blockbuster animations, and entrepreneurship. Best known for his role as Cliff Clavin on Cheers and for voicing characters in nearly every Pixar film, Ratzenberger’s net worth stands at an impressive $25 million as of 2025.
Early Life and Education
John Dezso Ratzenberger was born on April 6, 1947, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, making him 78 years old in 2025. He grew up in a working-class family. His mother, Bertha, worked at Remington Arms, and his father, Dezso, drove a truck for Texaco. Of Austrian, Polish, and Hungarian descent, Ratzenberger was raised in a community that valued hard work and perseverance.
He attended St. Ann’s School and later Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut. His early work experiences included jobs like tractor operator at the Woodstock Festival in 1969, showcasing his hands-on, blue-collar roots. In 1970, Ratzenberger moved to London, where he lived for over a decade, starting his acting career while working construction jobs.
Career Beginnings and Film Work
Ratzenberger’s first steps into acting began in London, performing in a comedy duo called Sal’s Meat Market alongside Ray Hassett. He started securing background and minor roles in films during the late 1970s. His first role came in 1976’s “The Ritz,” followed by parts in major movies like Firefox, Gandhi, and Outland.
In “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back” (1980), Ratzenberger had a small role as Major Derlin, earning him a place in one of the most successful franchises of all time.
The Cheers Breakthrough
In 1982, Ratzenberger auditioned for Cheers, aiming for the role of Norm Peterson. Though he didn’t land the part, he pitched the idea of a “know-it-all barfly,” which the producers loved. That’s how Cliff Clavin, the eccentric mailman known for bizarre trivia and white socks, was born.
Ratzenberger appeared in 274 out of the 275 episodes of Cheers, making him a staple of the beloved series throughout its 11-season run from 1982 to 1993. He received two Emmy nominations in 1985 and 1986 for his performance. At the height of the show, he earned around $200,000 per episode, which translates to about $10 million per season today when adjusted for inflation.
Pixar’s Lucky Charm
Ratzenberger transitioned seamlessly into voice acting, becoming a fixture in Pixar’s universe. His first voice role was in 1995 as Hamm the Piggy Bank in Toy Story. From that point forward, he voiced a character in every Pixar film through 2020’s “Onward,” including:
- Mack the Truck in Cars
- John in Wall-E
- Fritz in Inside Out
- Bill the Crab in Finding Dory
- Yeti in Monsters, Inc.
Though he did not voice a character in Soul (2020), Pixar included a cameo of his likeness as a nod to his status as their “good luck charm.”
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Business Success
In 1989, Ratzenberger co-founded Eco-Pak Industries, a company focused on producing biodegradable packaging materials. Their product, SizzlePak, was a sustainable alternative to foam packing peanuts. In 1992, the company was sold to Ranpak Corp. for a large sum, though John retained equity.
He later founded the Nuts, Bolts, and Thingamajigs Foundation, promoting awareness around the importance of skilled trades in America. He also became a board member of Center for America in 2010, further supporting workforce development and small business advocacy.
In 2016, Ratzenberger launched thegiftbox.com, a subscription e-commerce platform, and in 2020, co-founded American Made Advertising to help small businesses impacted by the pandemic.
Television Appearances and Personal Life
Outside his iconic roles, John has made appearances on Dancing with the Stars, Last Comic Standing, and even Hell’s Kitchen. His personality, often reflecting patriotic and entrepreneurial values, made him a favorite among American audiences.
Ratzenberger was married to Georgia Stiny for 19 years before divorcing in 2004. Together, they have two children: James John (born 1987) and Nina Katherine (born 1989).
He is also known for his political involvement, especially within Republican circles, and even considered a run for U.S. Senate in 2012.
Real Estate Holdings
In 1994, Ratzenberger built a custom 6,500-square-foot estate on Vashon Island in Washington, which he later sold in 2001 for $1.62 million. The property is now worth an estimated $4–5 million. In 2011, he bought a waterfront property in Milford, Connecticut, for $1.13 million. After listing it in October 2023 for $2.45 million, it sold in April 2024 for $1.67 million.
Box Office Power
With appearances in Pixar’s billion-dollar franchises and Star Wars, John Ratzenberger’s total worldwide box office earnings exceed $6 billion, placing him among the top-grossing actors of all time—just behind giants like Samuel L. Jackson.
Final Thoughts
John Ratzenberger’s net worth of $25 million in 2025 is not just the result of television and voice acting, but also smart investments, entrepreneurial success, and relentless work ethic. From Cheers to Toy Story, from sustainable business ventures to championing the skilled workforce, Ratzenberger’s legacy is deeply woven into American pop culture and economic growth.
He continues to inspire as an actor, entrepreneur, and advocate—a true embodiment of versatility and longevity in the entertainment industry.
