Peter Graves, born Peter Aurness, began his acting career in the late 1940s, initially taking on small roles in films and television shows. His breakthrough came in the early 1950s when he was cast in the television series “Fury,” playing the lead role of Jim Newton, a rancher who took in troubled youngsters. This role brought him significant recognition and set the stage for his subsequent success in the industry.

Peter Graves’ Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Peter Graves’ net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. This figure reflects his successful career in the entertainment industry, spanning over six decades.

Career

Peter Graves, born Peter Duesberg, is an American actor best known for his role as Jim Phelps in the television series “Mission: Impossible.” He also appeared in numerous films, including “Airplane!” and “10.” Graves’ career spanned over six decades, with his last acting credit in 2010.

Other Ventures

In addition to his acting career, Graves also ventured into directing and producing. He directed several episodes of “Mission: Impossible” and produced the television movie “The Return of Sam McCloud.” He also narrated numerous documentaries and audiobooks.

Assets

Graves’ assets include his residence in Los Angeles, California, valued at around $2 million. He also owned a ranch in Montana, which he used as a retreat. His extensive collection of classic cars is another notable asset, including a 1957 Porsche 356 and a 1966 Ford Mustang.

Annual Income

Peter Graves’ annual income varied throughout his career. At the height of his career, he was earning around $100,000 per episode of “Mission: Impossible.” His income also included residuals from his films and television appearances, as well as his directing and producing work. However, his exact annual income is not publicly disclosed.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Peter Graves

**Frequently Asked Questions: Peter Graves Net Worth**

1. What was Peter Graves’ net worth?

Peter Graves’ net worth was estimated to be around $20 million at the time of his death.

2. How did Peter Graves make his money?

Peter Graves made his fortune through his successful acting career, spanning over six decades. He was best known for his roles in television shows like “Mission: Impossible” and “FBI: The Untold Stories,” as well as films such as “Airplane!”

3. What was Peter Graves’ salary per episode on Mission: Impossible?

Peter Graves earned $15,000 per episode during the first season of “Mission: Impossible,” which is equivalent to approximately $120,000 in today’s value.

4. Did Peter Graves have any children?

Yes, Peter Graves had two children with his wife Joan Endress, whom he married in 1955. They had a son named Andrew and a daughter named Claudia.

5. What happened to Peter Graves’ wife after his death?

After Peter Graves’ death in 2010, his wife Joan Endress continued to live in their home in Los Angeles. She passed away in 2016 at the age of 90.

6. What was Peter Graves’ cause of death?

Peter Graves died of a heart attack at the age of 83 on March 14, 2010.

7. Did Peter Graves serve in the military?

Yes, Peter Graves served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. He was a B-17 pilot and flew 52 combat missions.

8. What was Peter Graves’ birth name?

Peter Graves’ birth name was Peter Duesler Aurness. He changed his name to Peter Graves when he started his acting career.

9. Did Peter Graves win any awards for his acting?

Yes, Peter Graves won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama for his role in “Mission: Impossible” in 1971. He also won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 1971.

10. What was Peter Graves’ height?

Peter Graves was 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters) tall.