Kent McCord is an American actor whose career spans over four decades in film and television. As of 2025, Kent McCord’s net worth is estimated at $1.3 million. Best known for his role as Officer Jim Reed on the popular police procedural series Adam-12, McCord has carved out a respected place in Hollywood history with consistent work, iconic television roles, and a dedication to the craft of acting.
This article explores Kent McCord’s net worth in the context of his long-standing career, industry contributions, major television appearances, personal background, and ongoing legacy. As we trace his path from uncredited movie appearances to network television fame, McCord’s story offers a fascinating example of steady success in an ever-changing entertainment industry.
Early Life and Entry Into Hollywood
Kent McCord was born Kent Franklin McWhirter on September 26, 1942, in Los Angeles, California. Raised in the city that would later be central to his professional life, McCord was exposed to the entertainment industry from an early age. He initially pursued athletics, excelling in football and track during his youth, before attending the University of Southern California.
It was during his college years that McCord’s path shifted toward acting. His clean-cut looks, natural presence, and interest in performance helped him land small roles, often uncredited, in various film projects. His early screen work includes background roles in five films released in 1964, including the Elvis Presley musical Viva Las Vegas.
These initial appearances gave McCord valuable exposure to the film set environment and introduced him to key figures in the entertainment industry.
The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet and Friendship with Ricky Nelson
Between 1962 and 1966, McCord secured a recurring role on the long-running family sitcom The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet. He played a version of himself, credited as “Kent,” in the latter seasons of the show. This opportunity not only gave him regular screen time but also forged a lifelong friendship with co-star and pop icon Ricky Nelson.
The connection to Nelson was more than professional. McCord considered Nelson a close friend and mentor, and their bond would influence both his personal and career choices. The show helped establish McCord as a reliable young actor capable of performing in a variety of roles.
Rise to Fame with Dragnet and Collaboration with Jack Webb
In 1967, McCord began appearing in the television revival of Dragnet, a classic police procedural series created by Jack Webb. His involvement in Dragnet 1967 marked a turning point in his career. The show emphasized realism in law enforcement storytelling, and McCord’s performances aligned perfectly with its straightforward, documentary-style tone.
Jack Webb took notice of McCord’s disciplined acting and screen presence. Impressed by his work ethic and authenticity, Webb cast McCord in what would become the defining role of his career—Officer Jim Reed in the NBC series Adam-12.
Adam-12: A Defining Television Role
From 1968 to 1975, Kent McCord starred as Jim Reed, a rookie police officer in Adam-12, opposite Martin Milner’s veteran character Pete Malloy. The series followed the two LAPD officers on their daily patrols in Los Angeles, offering a semi-documentary glimpse into modern policing at the time.
Adam-12 was both a commercial and cultural success. It stood out for its procedural accuracy and was praised for promoting a professional image of law enforcement. McCord’s portrayal of Officer Reed was widely respected for its realism, sincerity, and moral conviction. The role brought him national recognition and cemented his status as a television star.
Throughout the show’s seven-season run, McCord’s profile grew, leading to increased salary, fan admiration, and further opportunities within television. This period also marked significant growth in his personal earnings and contributed heavily to Kent McCord’s net worth.
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Post-Adam-12 Career and Notable Television Roles
After Adam-12 ended in 1975, McCord continued to work steadily in television. He avoided being typecast by choosing a variety of roles that demonstrated his range. His next major TV appearance came in 1980, when he portrayed Captain Troy in Galactica 1980, the short-lived sequel to the science fiction series Battlestar Galactica. Although the show had a brief run, it allowed McCord to expand his repertoire into science fiction.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, McCord took on diverse roles in both network and syndicated TV series. Some highlights include:
- Unsub (1989) – McCord starred as Alan McWhirter in this crime drama series focused on forensic investigations.
- SeaQuest 2032 (1994–1995) – He played Commander Scott Keller in the final season of the futuristic underwater adventure series.
- Renegade (1995–1997) – McCord had a recurring role on this action series starring Lorenzo Lamas.
- Silk Stalkings (1996–1998) – He appeared regularly in this crime drama known for its steamy plots and police investigations.
- JAG (1998–2000) – As a recurring guest star, he portrayed various high-ranking military figures in this military-legal procedural.
- Farscape (1999–2003) – In one of his more creatively ambitious roles, McCord portrayed Jack Crichton, father of the main character, in this Australian-American science fiction series.
These appearances allowed McCord to remain relevant in an industry constantly seeking new faces and formats. Each project added to his professional credibility and helped him build a consistent income stream, bolstering his financial stability over time.
Film Appearances and Supporting Roles
While Kent McCord is primarily recognized for his television work, he also appeared in several notable films throughout his career. His most prominent movie roles include:
- Airplane II: The Sequel (1982) – McCord had a small role in this follow-up to the original spoof film. While his part was limited, the movie’s commercial success introduced him to a broader comedic audience.
- Predator 2 (1990) – McCord played a supporting role in this science fiction action sequel. The film, starring Danny Glover, further demonstrated McCord’s adaptability and willingness to take on diverse projects.
While these roles did not dominate the box office, they helped broaden McCord’s industry appeal and increased his long-term residual earnings, contributing to Kent McCord’s net worth.
Personal Life and Industry Contributions
Outside of his acting career, McCord has maintained a relatively private personal life. He has been married to his wife Cynthia since the early 1960s, and the couple has three children. Their long-lasting marriage is a rarity in Hollywood, reflecting McCord’s grounded lifestyle and focus on family.
He has also remained active in professional guilds and organizations. In 1999, McCord was honored with the Ralph Morgan Award by the Screen Actors Guild, a recognition of his service and dedication to the union and his peers in the industry. This accolade symbolizes his standing within the entertainment community, not just as an actor, but also as a contributor to the welfare and rights of performers.
Long-Term Earnings and Financial Overview
As of 2025, Kent McCord’s net worth is estimated to be $1.3 million. This figure takes into account:
- Salary earnings from regular and recurring television roles
- Residuals from reruns and syndication of shows like Adam-12 and Farscape
- Royalties from DVD and streaming sales of classic series
- Appearance fees from conventions, interviews, and retrospectives
- Investment income and personal financial planning over a multi-decade career
While not among the top earners in Hollywood, McCord’s career demonstrates financial consistency, intelligent role selection, and a long-term approach to sustaining income in an unpredictable industry.
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Cultural Impact and Legacy
Kent McCord’s legacy is inseparable from his role in Adam-12, a show that helped redefine public perception of law enforcement during a critical era. His portrayal of Jim Reed was respectful, professional, and relatable. The show remains in syndication and continues to be used in police training and history programs for its authenticity.
Additionally, McCord’s contributions to science fiction television through roles in Farscape and Galactica 1980 have earned him a loyal fanbase in genre communities. His ability to span different television genres—from crime to sci-fi to legal drama—makes him one of the more versatile character actors of his generation.
Where is Kent McCord Today?
As of 2025, Kent McCord is enjoying retirement from active acting. While he occasionally appears at fan conventions, interviews, or retrospectives, he has largely stepped away from the public eye. He continues to live a quiet life, primarily in California, and remains respected by both fans and industry professionals.
His earlier work, particularly on Adam-12, continues to be streamed and viewed by new audiences, ensuring that his contributions remain part of television history. Though not a headline-grabbing celebrity, McCord’s impact is felt through the longevity of his roles and the professionalism he brought to every performance.
Conclusion: A Steady Legacy in Hollywood
Kent McCord’s net worth of $1.3 million reflects a career marked by dedication, talent, and integrity. While he may not have sought the spotlight in the way that some of his contemporaries did, he built a successful, long-lasting career that continues to resonate with audiences today.
From his early days on Ozzie & Harriet to his iconic role in Adam-12 and his enduring presence in science fiction television, McCord exemplifies what it means to be a working actor in Hollywood—committed, consistent, and respected. His financial standing may not reach blockbuster heights, but his cultural influence and industry recognition have left an indelible mark on American television.
FAQs
What is Kent McCord’s net worth in 2025?
Kent McCord’s net worth is estimated to be $1.3 million.
What is Kent McCord best known for?
He is best known for his role as Officer Jim Reed in the television series Adam-12.
Did Kent McCord act in films?
Yes, he appeared in movies like Airplane II: The Sequel and Predator 2, though his most notable work is in television.
Was Kent McCord involved in Farscape?
Yes, he portrayed Jack Crichton, the father of the lead character, from 1999 to 2003.
Is Kent McCord still acting?
As of 2025, McCord is retired from acting but occasionally participates in fan events and retrospectives.
Did Kent McCord receive any awards?
Yes, in 1999 he received the Ralph Morgan Award from the Screen Actors Guild for his contributions to the acting community.
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