Learn about Tony Dow’s net worth, age, wife, children, and cause of death. Tony Dow was a versatile and highly regarded American actor, director, producer, and sculptor. Born and raised in the Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles, he was deeply passionate about acting from a young age. He gained fame through his role as Wally Cleaver in the iconic sitcom “Leave It to Beaver,” which aired from 1957 to 1963, and became widely recognized for his talent.
After the conclusion of the sitcom, Tony diversified his career, engaging in various jobs, including construction work, while never losing his love for art. Eventually, he rekindled his passion for sculpting and achieved significant recognition for his work in the field. His remarkable career as an artist and entertainer endured until his passing in July 2022, following a prolonged battle with liver cancer.
Profile Summary
Tony Dow’s Biography
Tony Dow, known for his portrayal of Wally Cleaver in “Leave It to Beaver,” was an American actor, director, and producer. Born on April 13, 1945, in Hollywood, California, he gained prominence through his role in the popular TV series, which aired from 1957 to 1963. After the show ended, he continued to appear in various TV shows and movies, including “The Love Boat” and “The Beverly Hillbillies.” Further adding to his accomplishments, Dow also directed multiple episodes of “Leave It to Beaver” and other television programs. Apart from his work in entertainment, he established himself as an esteemed sculptor, showcasing his bronze sculptures at exhibitions across the United States and Europe.
Tony Dow’s Career
Besides acting, Tony Dow demonstrated his proficiency in directing, producing, writing, and sculpting. His directing debut occurred in 1989 with an episode of “The New Lassie,” followed by numerous directorial projects on well-known series such as “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” “Crusade,” “Harry and the Hendersons,” “Get a Life,” and “Babylon 5.” Additionally, he ventured into producing, receiving credits for “It Came from Outer Space II” in 1996 and “The Adventures of Captain Zoom in Outer Space” in 1995. Dow also served in the US National Guard, worked in the construction industry, and found solace in sculpting when faced with clinical depression. His talents were acknowledged internationally when he was chosen to represent the United States at an exhibition in Paris in 2008, further solidifying his legacy as a versatile and influential figure.
Tony Dow’s Military Service
Amidst his endeavors, Tony Dow briefly stepped away from acting in the late 1960s to fulfill his commitment to the California National Guard (CNG). However, his stance as a conscientious objector, refusing to carry a weapon, resulted in his receiving a less-than-honorable discharge from the military. Despite this, Dow advocated for peace and non-violent conflict resolution, establishing himself as a noteworthy advocate for individual conscience and the right to object to actions conflicting with personal beliefs.
Tony Dow’s Marriages
Tony Dow married Carol Marie Marlow in 1969, producing a child before their marriage ended in 1980. His second wife, Lauren Shulkind, an accomplished mosaic artist, accompanied Dow for over four decades, residing in a transformed retreat for artists in Topanga Canyon, Los Angeles County.
Tony Dow’s Net Worth and Age
As of 2023, Tony Dow’s net worth is estimated at $4 million, reflecting his extensive career in Hollywood and his later pursuit as a sculptor. He passed away at the age of 76 on July 27, 2022, after battling liver cancer.
