Lance Kerwin Net Worth was estimated between $1 million and $14 million at the time of his death in January 2023.
The beloved American actor who captivated audiences in the 1970s with his roles in Salem’s Lot and James at 15 left behind a legacy that goes far beyond his financial success.
His journey from a child actor to a teen idol, and later to ministry work, tells a story of talent, struggle, and redemption.
If you’re wondering how much Lance Kerwin was worth, what happened to him, or details about his personal life including his age, height, family, and relationships, you’ve come to the right place.
This complete biography covers everything you need to know about the late actor’s life, career, and financial legacy.
Quick Facts About Lance Kerwin
Here’s a snapshot of Lance Kerwin’s life and career at a glance:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lance Michael Kerwin |
| Birth Date | November 6, 1960 |
| Birth Place | Newport Beach, California, USA |
| Death Date | January 24, 2023 |
| Age at Death | 62 years old |
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 85 kg (187 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Net Worth | $1 million – $14 million (estimated) |
| Annual Income | Approximately $1 million (peak years) |
| Monthly Earnings | Around $85,000 (during acting career) |
| Famous For | Salem’s Lot, James at 15, The Loneliest Runner |
| Occupation | Actor, Minister |
| Years Active | 1974-1995, 2022 |
| First Wife | Kristen Lansdale |
| Second Wife | Yvonne Kerwin |
| Children | 5 (Savannah, Fox, Terah, Kailani, Justus) |
| Nationality | American |
| Cause of Death | Heart disease |
Lance Kerwin Net Worth: How Much Was He Really Worth?
Lance Kerwin’s wealth has been a topic of interest since his passing. Different sources report varying figures, but most agree that his estimated net worth ranged between $1 million and $14 million.
Some reports suggest his fortune was around $10 million in 2023, while more conservative estimates put it closer to $400,000 to $1 million.
Why Do Net Worth Estimates Vary So Much?
The variation in Lance Kerwin’s net worth comes from several factors:
Different Time Periods: Some sources estimate his wealth during his peak acting years in the 1970s and 1980s, while others focus on his financial situation at the time of his death. His career earnings were highest during the late 1970s when he starred in major TV productions.
Career Gaps: Kerwin stepped away from Hollywood in the 1990s to focus on ministry work. This career break significantly impacted his income and overall wealth accumulation.
When an actor leaves the entertainment industry for extended periods, their earning potential decreases.
Private Financial Information: Unlike some celebrities, Lance Kerwin kept his financial details private. Without public tax records or official statements, estimates rely on industry standards for what actors earned during that era.
Multiple Income Sources: Beyond acting, Kerwin may have had investments, real estate, and other assets that aren’t publicly documented. His ministry work likely provided some income, though typically less than acting roles.
Lance Kerwin’s Annual Income and Monthly Earnings
During his prime acting years, Lance Kerwin’s annual income was estimated at around $1 million per year. This translates to approximately $85,000 per month, which was substantial for a teen actor in the 1970s and early 1980s.
His career earnings came primarily from:
- Television series salaries
- TV movie appearances
- Film roles
- Residuals and royalties from popular shows
- Guest appearances and cameos
The Salem’s Lot star’s net worth grew significantly after his breakout roles. However, financial challenges later in life, including legal issues and long periods away from acting, likely reduced his overall fortune.
Early Life and Family Background
Lance Michael Kerwin was born on November 6, 1960, in Newport Beach, California. He came from a family deeply connected to the entertainment industry, which shaped his path toward acting from an early age.
Parents and Family Influence
Lance’s father, Don Kerwin, was an acting coach who understood the entertainment business inside and out. His expertise helped guide young Lance’s career from the beginning.
His mother, Lois Kerwin, worked as a talent agent, giving the family even stronger connections to Hollywood. With both parents in the industry, it was almost natural that Lance would follow in their footsteps.
Growing up in Lake Elsinore, California, Lance had five brothers, making for a lively household. The Kerwin family later moved to San Clemente, where Lance spent much of his childhood and teenage years.
Childhood and Early Interests
From a young age, Lance showed talent for performing. His parents recognized his natural abilities and helped nurture his skills.
Unlike many child actors who are pushed into the industry, Lance had genuine interest and enthusiasm for acting.
His upbringing in California, the heart of the American entertainment industry, gave him easy access to auditions and opportunities. By the time he was in his early teens, Lance was already booking roles on television.
Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
How tall was Lance Kerwin? This is one of the most searched questions about the actor. Lance Kerwin stood at 5 feet 11 inches tall (180 centimeters), which was a good height for an actor during his era.
Physical Stats and Appearance
During his acting career, Lance maintained a relatively athletic build. His weight was approximately 85 kilograms (187 pounds). He had distinctive features that made him memorable on screen:
- Eye Color: Brown
- Hair Color: Brown
- Build: Medium, athletic
- Complexion: Fair
- Distinctive Features: Expressive eyes, boyish charm
Lance’s physical appearance played a significant role in the types of roles he was cast in. His brown eyes were particularly expressive, allowing him to convey deep emotion in dramatic scenes. Directors often praised his ability to portray anguished characters with sensitivity and depth.
As a teen actor, Lance had a clean-cut, all-American look that made him perfect for wholesome television roles. However, he was also able to take on darker, more complex characters, as demonstrated in his horror role in Salem’s Lot.
Appearance Evolution Over the Years
Like many actors who started as children, Lance’s appearance changed significantly throughout his career. In his early roles on shows like Emergency! and Shazam!, he had a youthful, innocent look. By the time he starred in James at 15, he had matured into a convincing teenager dealing with real-life issues.
In later years, after stepping away from Hollywood, Lance adopted a more casual appearance, reflecting his new life focused on ministry rather than entertainment.
Acting Career and Famous Roles
Lance Kerwin’s acting career began in the early 1970s and spanned over two decades, with a brief comeback in 2022. His television roles and film work made him one of the most recognized teen actors of his generation.
Early Career Breakthrough (1974-1976)
Lance started landing TV series roles when he was just a teenager. His early appearances included:
Emergency! (1974): One of his first major roles was in this popular medical drama. The show gave him valuable experience working on a professional set.
The Healers (1974): Another medical drama where young Lance showed his acting potential.
Shazam! (1974-1975): Lance appeared in this superhero series, which was popular with young audiences.
The Greatest Gift (1974): An early role that helped establish him in Hollywood.
These early roles built his reputation as a reliable child actor who could handle dramatic material. Casting directors took notice, leading to bigger opportunities.
The Loneliest Runner (1976): A Turning Point
Lance Kerwin’s breakthrough came with the TV movie The Loneliest Runner in 1976. In this film, he played young John Curtis, a character dealing with bed-wetting and the shame surrounding it. The movie was actually written by Michael Landon based on his own childhood experiences.
This role demonstrated Lance’s ability to handle sensitive subject matter with maturity beyond his years. His performance was widely praised and opened doors to more substantial roles.
Salem’s Lot (1979): Horror Icon Status
Perhaps Lance Kerwin’s most famous role came in 1979 when he starred in the TV mini-series adaptation of Stephen King’s Salem’s Lot.
Playing Mark Petrie, a young boy fighting against vampires terrorizing a small town, Lance became part of horror television history.
Salem’s Lot was a massive success and remains a cult classic to this day. The mini-series introduced Lance to international audiences and cemented his status as a 1970s teen idol. Horror fans still remember his performance decades later.
The role showcased his versatility. Unlike his previous wholesome roles, Salem’s Lot required him to convey fear, courage, and determination in a supernatural thriller setting. His chemistry with co-star David Soul made the story believable and engaging.
James at 15/16 (1977-1978): Career Defining Success
James at 15 (later renamed James at 16) was Lance Kerwin’s signature role. This NBC television series followed a teenage boy navigating the challenges of adolescence, family issues, school, and first love.
The show was groundbreaking for its time, tackling real teen issues like:
- Family relocation and adjustment
- First romantic relationships
- Peer pressure
- Identity and self-discovery
- The complexities of growing up
Lance’s portrayal of James Hunter was authentic and relatable. Teenagers across America saw themselves in his character. The show ran for one season but made a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike.
Critical acclaim for James at 15 highlighted Lance’s acting skills and ability to carry a series as the lead. His talent for portraying anguished characters dealing with everyday challenges resonated with viewers. The show’s honest approach to teenage life was ahead of its time.
1980s Television Work
Throughout the 1980s, Lance continued working steadily in television:
Trapper John, M.D.: Guest appearances on this medical drama Murder, She Wrote: Working with Angela Lansbury in this mystery series The Mysterious Stranger: TV movie appearance Side Show: Continuing his TV movie work
While these roles weren’t as prominent as his earlier work, they kept Lance working in the entertainment industry and maintained his presence on screen.
Film Career
Lance also appeared in several movies during his career:
Outbreak (1995): One of his later film roles before stepping away from acting Enemy Mine (1985): Science fiction film appearance The Tenth Month (1979): TV movie Children of Divorce (1980): Drama film
His film work never reached the same heights as his television success, but these roles added to his overall body of work and career earnings.
Career Timeline Table
| Year | Project | Role/Type | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1974 | Emergency! | TV Series | Early career start |
| 1974 | The Healers | TV Series | Building experience |
| 1974-1975 | Shazam! | TV Series | Superhero genre |
| 1976 | The Loneliest Runner | TV Movie | Breakthrough role |
| 1977-1978 | James at 15/16 | Lead TV Series | Career-defining role |
| 1979 | Salem’s Lot | TV Mini-series | Horror icon status |
| 1980s | Various TV Shows | Guest Star | Steady work period |
| 1985 | Enemy Mine | Film | Sci-fi appearance |
| 1995 | Outbreak | Film | Pre-retirement role |
| 1995-2022 | Career Break | Ministry Work | 27-year hiatus |
| 2022 | The Wind & the Reckoning | Film | Final role/comeback |
The Wind & the Reckoning (2022): Final Performance
In 2022, after a 27-year absence from acting, Lance made a comeback with a role in The Wind & the Reckoning. This historical drama was his final performance before his death in January 2023.
The decision to return to acting came after years of ministry work and personal challenges. A fundraiser had been organized in 2021 to help Lance’s Hollywood comeback and support his family financially during difficult times, particularly during the pandemic.
Sadly, this would be Lance Kerwin’s last role. He passed away just months after the film’s release, making it a bittersweet ending to his acting career.
How Did Lance Kerwin Make His Money?
Understanding how Lance Kerwin made his money gives insight into his financial legacy. Unlike modern actors with multiple revenue streams, Lance’s income came primarily from traditional sources.
Primary Income: Television Acting
Lance’s wealth came mainly from his television roles. During the 1970s and early 1980s, television actors earned substantial salaries, especially on popular shows. As the lead in James at 15, Lance would have negotiated a significant per-episode fee.
Industry estimates suggest that lead actors in network television series during that era could earn:
- $10,000 to $25,000 per episode for popular shows
- Additional money from reruns and syndication
- Bonuses for ratings success
With James at 15 running for one full season, plus numerous TV movies and guest appearances, Lance accumulated considerable earnings during his peak years.
TV Movies and Mini-Series
TV movies were another major income source. Projects like The Loneliest Runner and Salem’s Lot paid well, especially for lead or prominent supporting roles. Mini-series like Salem’s Lot often had larger budgets and could pay actors more than regular series episodes.
Film Appearances
While Lance’s film career wasn’t as extensive as his television work, movies like Outbreak and Enemy Mine added to his overall income. Film roles typically pay more per project than television, though Lance had fewer of them.
Residuals and Royalties
One often-overlooked aspect of actor earnings is residuals. Every time a show or movie airs in reruns or is sold to streaming platforms, actors receive payments. Shows like Salem’s Lot, which became cult classics, likely generated residual income for years.
Why Lance Kerwin’s Fortune Wasn’t Larger
Given his success, you might wonder why Lance Kerwin’s net worth wasn’t higher. Several factors explain this:
Career Interruption: Lance stepped away from acting in the mid-1990s, cutting off his main income source for nearly three decades.
Child Actor Protections: While laws like the Coogan Law protect child actors’ earnings, management of these funds and family access can sometimes result in less money being saved than earned.
Personal Challenges: Lance faced personal struggles, including legal issues in Hawaii and financial difficulties that required a fundraiser in 2021.
Ministry Work: While fulfilling personally, ministry work typically pays far less than acting. Lance’s commitment to U-Turn for Christ and the Calvary Chapel meant choosing spiritual work over financial gain.
Limited Investments: Without evidence of major business ventures or significant investments, Lance’s wealth remained tied primarily to his acting earnings.
Income Comparison Table
| Income Source | Estimated Earnings | Time Period |
|---|---|---|
| James at 15 (TV Series) | $200,000 – $500,000 total | 1977-1978 |
| Salem’s Lot (Mini-series) | $50,000 – $100,000 | 1979 |
| Other TV Shows & Movies | $500,000 – $1,000,000 | 1974-1995 |
| Residuals & Royalties | $100,000 – $500,000 | 1974-2023 |
| Ministry Work | Minimal income | 1995-2023 |
| Total Estimated Career Earnings | $1 million – $14 million | Lifetime |
Personal Life: Wives, Relationships, and Children
Lance Kerwin’s personal life included two marriages and five children. While some search for information about “Lance Kerwin girlfriend,” he was actually married twice and focused on family life rather than dating.
First Marriage: Kristen Lansdale
Lance’s first wife was Kristen Lansdale. The couple married during Lance’s acting career, though exact dates aren’t widely publicized. From this marriage, Lance had his first child, daughter Savannah Kerwin.
The marriage eventually ended in divorce. The pressures of Hollywood, Lance’s growing desire to leave acting, and personal challenges likely contributed to the relationship’s difficulties.
Second Marriage: Yvonne Kerwin
Lance found lasting love with his second wife, Yvonne Kerwin. This marriage proved more stable and long-lasting. Together, they had four children:
- Fox Kerwin – Son
- Terah Kerwin – Daughter
- Kailani Kerwin – Daughter
- Justus Kerwin – Son
Yvonne stood by Lance through his transition from acting to ministry work, his personal struggles, and his health challenges. She was a supportive partner during his attempted comeback in 2022.
His Five Children
Lance Kerwin had five children total from his two marriages. Being a father was very important to him, especially in his later years when he focused on family and faith over career.
Savannah Kerwin, his eldest daughter from his first marriage, maintained a relationship with her father throughout his life.
His four children with Yvonne – Fox, Terah, Kailani, and Justus – grew up during Lance’s ministry years, experiencing a very different life from his Hollywood days.
Family Life Table
| Family Member | Relationship | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Don Kerwin | Father | Acting coach |
| Lois Kerwin | Mother | Talent agent |
| 5 Brothers | Siblings | Raised together in California |
| Kristen Lansdale | First Wife | Marriage ended in divorce |
| Savannah Kerwin | Daughter | From first marriage |
| Yvonne Kerwin | Second Wife | Long-term marriage, supportive partner |
| Fox Kerwin | Son | From second marriage |
| Terah Kerwin | Daughter | From second marriage |
| Kailani Kerwin | Daughter | From second marriage |
| Justus Kerwin | Son | From second marriage |
Did Lance Kerwin Have a Girlfriend?
People often search for “Lance Kerwin girlfriend,” but there’s no public information about girlfriends after his marriages.
Lance maintained privacy about his romantic life and was married for most of his adult life. His focus in later years was on his family and ministry work rather than dating.
Family Values and Faith
Family became increasingly important to Lance as he grew older. His decision to leave Hollywood was partly motivated by a desire to prioritize his family and faith over fame and fortune.
This choice, while reducing his income, gave him a different kind of wealth – strong family bonds and personal fulfillment.
Later Life and Ministry Work
In the 1990s, Lance Kerwin made a dramatic life change that surprised many fans. He stepped away from Hollywood to pursue ministry work, dedicating himself to faith-based service.
Transition to Ministry
Lance’s decision to leave acting wasn’t sudden. Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, he had been experiencing a spiritual awakening.
The pressures of Hollywood, personal struggles, and a search for deeper meaning led him toward religious faith.
By the mid-1990s, Lance had fully committed to ministry work. He became involved with U-Turn for Christ, a Christian outreach ministry focused on helping people make positive life changes.
U-Turn for Christ Ministry
U-Turn for Christ became Lance’s primary focus for many years. This organization worked with:
- People struggling with addiction
- Those seeking spiritual guidance
- Individuals looking to turn their lives around
- Communities in need of faith-based support
Lance wasn’t just a figurehead using his celebrity status. He actively participated in ministry activities, counseling, and outreach efforts. This hands-on approach demonstrated his genuine commitment to helping others.
Calvary Chapel in Hawaii
Lance also worked with Calvary Chapel, a network of evangelical Christian churches. He spent significant time in Hawaii, where he engaged in ministry work and tried to build a life focused on faith rather than fame.
The Calvary Chapel Association appreciated having someone with Lance’s background and life experience. His struggles and redemption story resonated with people seeking hope and change.
Challenges During Ministry Years
Lance’s later life wasn’t without difficulties. In Hawaii, he faced legal issues that brought unwanted attention. While specific details remain private, these challenges tested his commitment to his new path.
Financial struggles also emerged during these years. Ministry work doesn’t provide the income that Hollywood does.
By 2021, Lance’s financial situation had become difficult enough that friends and supporters organized a fundraiser to help him and his family.
Attempted Hollywood Comeback (2021-2022)
The 2021 fundraiser aimed to support Lance’s family and help fund a Hollywood comeback. After nearly three decades away from acting, Lance hoped to return to the screen.
The timing was challenging. The COVID-19 pandemic had disrupted the entertainment industry, making comebacks harder. However, Lance persisted, ultimately securing a role in The Wind & the Reckoning in 2022.
This comeback wasn’t about recapturing past glory. It was about providing for his family and perhaps finding closure on his acting career. Sadly, this would be his final performance.
Death and Lasting Legacy
On January 24, 2023, Lance Kerwin passed away at the age of 62. His death marked the end of a life that had touched millions through entertainment and ministry work.
Cause of Death
Lance Kerwin died from heart disease, according to reports. The specific type of heart condition wasn’t publicly detailed, but cardiovascular issues claimed his life just two months after his 62nd birthday.
Heart disease is a leading cause of death in America, affecting millions. Lance’s death highlighted the importance of heart health and medical care.
Announcement of His Passing
Lance’s daughter Savannah announced his death to the public. In a heartfelt statement, she shared the news with fans and asked for privacy for the family during their grieving period.
The announcement brought an outpouring of tributes from fans, fellow actors, and ministry colleagues who had known Lance throughout different phases of his life.
Industry Reaction
The entertainment industry mourned the loss of one of the 1970s’ most talented teen actors. Tributes highlighted:
His Acting Talent: Directors and co-stars remembered Lance’s natural ability and emotional depth.
Salem’s Lot Legacy: Horror fans and Stephen King enthusiasts particularly mourned, as Lance’s role in the mini-series remained iconic.
James at 15 Impact: Many people who grew up watching James at 15 shared how the show and Lance’s performance had impacted their teenage years.
Personal Kindness: Those who knew Lance personally spoke of his kindness, humility, and genuine nature.
Lance Kerwin’s Lasting Impact
Lance Kerwin’s legacy extends beyond his net worth or acting roles:
Television History: He’s remembered as one of the best teen actors of the 1970s, someone who brought authenticity to every role.
Salem’s Lot Immortality: His performance in this Stephen King adaptation ensures he’ll be remembered by horror fans for generations.
Representation of Real Teen Issues: James at 15 addressed topics other shows avoided, with Lance making these stories believable and impactful.
Inspiration for Others: His journey from Hollywood to ministry inspired people that life changes are possible and that success can be redefined.
Family Legacy: His five children carry forward his legacy, remembering him as a father who chose faith and family over fame.
Memorials and Tributes
Following his death, various tributes emerged:
- Online fan communities shared favorite scenes and episodes
- Horror websites published retrospectives of his Salem’s Lot performance
- Ministry organizations acknowledged his years of service
- Social media filled with memories from people whose lives he touched
Impact on 1970s Television
Lance Kerwin’s impact on 1970s TV can’t be overstated. During a golden age of television, he stood out as a young actor who could handle complex, emotional material. While other teen actors played superficial roles, Lance took on characters dealing with real issues.
His willingness to portray vulnerable, anguished characters opened doors for more honest teen-focused programming. Shows that came after James at 15 owed something to its groundbreaking approach.
Lance Kerwin vs. Other 1970s Teen Actors
How did Lance Kerwin’s net worth and career compare to other teen actors of his era? Let’s look at some comparisons:
Comparison Table: 1970s Teen Actors
| Actor | Famous For | Est. Net Worth | Career Path |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lance Kerwin | James at 15, Salem’s Lot | $1-14 million | Left Hollywood for ministry |
| Kristy McNichol | Family, Empty Nest | $7 million | Retired early due to health |
| Willie Aames | Eight is Enough | $100,000 | Financial struggles, ministry work |
| Leif Garrett | Teen idol singer/actor | $10,000 | Legal issues, addiction struggles |
| Scott Baio | Happy Days, Charles in Charge | $4 million | Continued acting, directing |
| Jodie Foster | Taxi Driver, Panic Room | $100 million | Became A-list adult actress |
| Tatum O’Neal | Paper Moon | $1.5 million | Struggled with addiction |
This comparison shows that Lance’s financial legacy was moderate compared to peers. Some, like Jodie Foster, transitioned to massive adult success. Others, like Lance and Willie Aames, left Hollywood for ministry. Some faced serious struggles.
What Made Lance Different?
Lance Kerwin chose a path few others did. While many child actors either:
- Struggled with addiction and legal issues
- Fought to continue acting with limited success
- Retired quietly
Lance actively chose a new life direction. His ministry work wasn’t a fallback plan but a genuine calling. This decision cost him financially but gave him purpose and fulfillment that Hollywood couldn’t provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What was Lance Kerwin’s net worth when he died?
Lance Kerwin’s net worth at the time of his death was estimated between $1 million and $14 million. Different sources give different estimates, with some suggesting approximately $10 million and others reporting more conservative figures around $400,000 to $1 million.
The variation comes from the difficulty in assessing his assets, career earnings over decades, and financial situation after years away from acting.
2. How old was Lance Kerwin when he died?
Lance Kerwin was 62 years old when he passed away on January 24, 2023. He was born on November 6, 1960, meaning he had celebrated his 62nd birthday just two and a half months before his death. He died relatively young, with heart disease being the reported cause.
3. What was Lance Kerwin’s most famous role?
Lance Kerwin’s most famous roles were Mark Petrie in Salem’s Lot (1979) and the title character in James at 15 (1977-1978).
Salem’s Lot remains a cult classic horror mini-series, while James at 15 was groundbreaking for addressing real teenage issues. Both roles defined his career and are what he’s best remembered for today.
4. Was Lance Kerwin married?
Yes, Lance Kerwin was married twice. His first wife was Kristen Lansdale, with whom he had one daughter, Savannah.
After their divorce, he married Yvonne Kerwin, with whom he had four more children: Fox, Terah, Kailani, and Justus. He remained married to Yvonne until his death in 2023.
5. How many children did Lance Kerwin have?
Lance Kerwin had five children total. He had one daughter, Savannah, from his first marriage to Kristen Lansdale.
From his second marriage to Yvonne Kerwin, he had four more children: sons Fox and Justus, and daughters Terah and Kailani. His children were very important to him, especially during his ministry years when family became his priority.
6. How tall was Lance Kerwin?
Lance Kerwin’s height was 5 feet 11 inches (180 centimeters). This was a good height for an actor and contributed to his on-screen presence.
He weighed approximately 85 kilograms (187 pounds) during his acting career. He had brown eyes and brown hair, with an expressive face that made him perfect for dramatic roles.
7. What caused Lance Kerwin’s death?
Lance Kerwin died from heart disease at age 62. The specific type of heart condition wasn’t publicly disclosed, but cardiovascular disease was listed as the cause of death. He passed away on January 24, 2023, in San Clemente, California, where he had lived for many years.
8. Did Lance Kerwin have a girlfriend?
There’s no public information about Lance Kerwin having a girlfriend after his marriages. He was married twice and remained married to his second wife, Yvonne, until his death.
During his later years focused on ministry and family, Lance kept his personal life very private. He wasn’t known to be dating anyone, as he was committed to his wife and family.
9. Where was Lance Kerwin from?
Lance Kerwin was from Newport Beach, California, where he was born on November 6, 1960. He was raised in Lake Elsinore, California, and later lived in San Clemente, California.
He spent significant time in Hawaii during his ministry years but returned to California, where he passed away. He was a native Californian who stayed connected to his roots throughout his life.
10. Is Lance Kerwin still alive?
No, Lance Kerwin is not alive. He passed away on January 24, 2023, at the age of 62 from heart disease. His death was announced by his daughter Savannah, and tributes poured in from fans, fellow actors, and ministry colleagues. While he’s no longer with us, his legacy lives on through his iconic roles in Salem’s Lot and James at 15.
11. What happened to Lance Kerwin after he left Hollywood?
After leaving Hollywood in the mid-1990s, Lance Kerwin dedicated his life to ministry work. He worked with U-Turn for Christ, a Christian outreach organization, and was involved with Calvary Chapel in Hawaii. He focused on helping people struggling with addiction and life challenges.
Though he faced financial difficulties and legal issues during this time, he remained committed to his faith. In 2022, he briefly returned to acting for The Wind & the Reckoning before his death in early 2023.
12. How much did Lance Kerwin make per episode of James at 15?
While exact salary figures aren’t public, industry estimates suggest that lead actors in network television series during the late 1970s could earn $10,000 to $25,000 per episode.
Given that James at 15 was a network show and Lance was the lead, his per-episode salary was likely in this range. Combined with residuals and his other work, this contributed significantly to his overall career earnings.
13. What TV shows did Lance Kerwin appear in?
Lance Kerwin appeared in numerous TV shows, including:
- Emergency! (1974)
- The Healers (1974)
- Shazam! (1974-1975)
- The Greatest Gift (1974)
- The Loneliest Runner (1976) – TV Movie
- James at 15/16 (1977-1978) – Lead Role
- Salem’s Lot (1979) – Mini-series
- Trapper John, M.D. (1980s)
- Murder, She Wrote (1980s)
- The Mysterious Stranger – TV Movie
- Various other guest appearances throughout the 1970s and 1980s
14. Did Lance Kerwin win any awards for his acting?
While Lance Kerwin received critical acclaim for his performances, specific major award wins aren’t widely documented.
However, he was ranked #82 on VH1’s 2005 list of “The Greatest: 100 Greatest Kid Stars,” which recognized his impact as one of America’s leading boy actors of the late 1970s. His performances in Salem’s Lot and James at 15 earned praise from critics and audiences alike.
15. What was Lance Kerwin doing before he died?
Before his death, Lance Kerwin had returned to acting for the first time in 27 years. He appeared in the 2022 film The Wind & the Reckoning, which was released shortly before his death.
A fundraiser in 2021 had helped support his comeback and assist his family financially. He was living in California with his family and had expressed hope for more acting opportunities. Sadly, he passed away in January 2023, just months after his comeback role.
Conclusion
Lance Kerwin’s net worth may have been estimated between $1 million and $14 million, but his true wealth can’t be measured in dollars. His legacy includes iconic performances that defined 1970s television, a courageous career change to follow his faith, and a family that loved him deeply.
From his breakthrough role in The Loneliest Runner to becoming a teen idol through James at 15, and finally achieving horror immortality in Salem’s Lot, Lance Kerwin left his mark on entertainment history. His ability to portray vulnerable, authentic characters made him stand out among his peers and created television that still resonates today.
Lance’s later life showed even greater courage. Leaving the fame and fortune of Hollywood to dedicate himself to ministry work demonstrated character and conviction. While this choice reduced his financial success, it gave him purpose and allowed him to help others find hope and redemption.
At age 62, Lance’s life was cut short by heart disease, but his impact continues. His five children carry forward his legacy. Fans still watch and cherish his performances. And those he helped through U-Turn for Christ and Calvary Chapel remember his kindness and dedication.
Lance Kerwin was more than his net worth, more than his famous roles, and more than a 1970s teen actor. He was a talented performer, a dedicated minister, a loving father, and a man who chose faith over fame. His story reminds us that success can be redefined, that second acts are possible, and that legacy is about impact, not income.
Whether you remember him as the brave boy fighting vampires in Salem’s Lot, the relatable teenager in James at 15, or the man who walked away from Hollywood to follow his calling, Lance Kerwin’s life was remarkable. His financial legacy may be modest, but his impact on television history and the lives he touched is priceless.
Rest in peace, Lance Kerwin. Your performances live on, your ministry work made a difference, and your memory continues to inspire.
