Phoebe Cates net worth stands at an impressive $35 million in 2025, earned through her iconic 1980s film career and smart business ventures.
The former actress, best known for her unforgettable roles in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” and “Gremlins,” has built lasting wealth even after stepping away from Hollywood three decades ago.
While many 80s stars faded into obscurity, Phoebe Cates made a different choice.
She walked away from acting at the height of her fame to focus on family and entrepreneurship, proving that success in Hollywood doesn’t always mean staying in the spotlight forever.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About Phoebe Cates
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Phoebe Belle Cates Kline |
| Net Worth | $35 Million (2025) |
| Age | 61 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birth Date | July 16, 1963 |
| Birth Place | New York City, New York, USA |
| Height | 5 ft 7 in (1.70 m) |
| Profession | Former Actress, Model, Entrepreneur |
| Husband | Kevin Kline (married since 1989) |
| Children | Owen Kline, Greta Kline |
| Famous For | Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Gremlins |
| Business | Blue Tree Boutique (Owner) |
| Years Active | 1982-2001 (Acting) |
What is Phoebe Cates Net Worth in 2025?
Phoebe Cates’ net worth is estimated at $35 million as of 2025. This fortune comes from her successful acting career in the 1980s and 1990s, her boutique business, real estate investments, and ongoing royalties from her classic films.
The Gremlins actress earned substantial income during her peak years in Hollywood. Films like “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” (1982) and “Gremlins” (1984) were massive box office successes. “Gremlins” alone grossed over $212.9 million worldwide, establishing Phoebe Cates as a bankable star.
Her net worth has remained stable and even grown since retirement thanks to:
- Streaming royalties from her classic films on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and HBO Max
- Blue Tree boutique profits from her Madison Avenue store (2005-2020)
- Real estate appreciation in Manhattan and upstate New York
- Smart investments managed alongside her husband
Unlike many former actresses whose wealth diminishes after leaving Hollywood, Phoebe Cates’ financial status has remained solid through diversification and careful management.
Combined Net Worth with Kevin Kline
When combined with her husband Kevin Kline’s fortune, the family’s total net worth reaches approximately $70 million. Kevin Kline, an Academy Award-winning actor, has his own successful career spanning over four decades.
| Person | Individual Net Worth | Primary Income Source |
|---|---|---|
| Phoebe Cates | $35 Million | Acting, Business, Real Estate |
| Kevin Kline | $35 Million | Acting, Theater, Film |
| Combined | $70 Million | Entertainment & Business |
This power couple represents one of Hollywood’s most enduring marriages, with both maintaining successful careers while prioritizing family life. Their combined wealth reflects decades of smart career choices and financial planning.
Phoebe Cates Age and Early Life
Phoebe Cates is 61 years old as of 2025, having been born on July 16, 1963. Despite her age, she maintains a low profile and rarely makes public appearances, preferring privacy over celebrity status.
Birth Date and Family Background
Phoebe Belle Cates was born in New York City to a fascinating family. Her father, Joseph Cates (born Joseph Katz), was a prominent Broadway and television producer who helped create the game show “The $64,000 Question.” Her mother, Lily, was born in China and brought an international perspective to the family.
Growing up in Manhattan, Phoebe had two sisters—older sister Valerie and younger sister Alexandra—and one brother, Phillip Cates. The Cates family was deeply connected to the entertainment industry, which naturally influenced Phoebe’s career path.
She attended the Professional Children’s School in New York, an institution famous for educating young performers. Later, she received training at the prestigious Juilliard School, one of the world’s finest performing arts conservatories.
Early Modeling Career
Phoebe Cates began modeling at just 10 years old, appearing in teen magazines like “Seventeen.” Her natural beauty and photogenic features made her a sought-after teen model throughout the 1970s.
However, modeling wasn’t her true passion. At 14, Phoebe earned a scholarship to the School of American Ballet, where she planned to pursue professional dance. Unfortunately, a serious knee injury ended her ballet dreams before they could fully take flight.
About her modeling career, Phoebe later admitted: “It was just the same thing, over and over. After a while I did it solely for the money.” This dissatisfaction pushed her toward acting, where she could express creativity and emotion rather than just posing for cameras.
Her father encouraged this transition, famously telling her: “What are you going to do, model for the rest of your life?” This pivotal conversation led Phoebe Cates to pursue the acting career that would make her a Hollywood icon.
Phoebe Cates Career Highlights
Phoebe Cates’ acting career spanned nearly two decades, from 1982 to 2001. During this time, she starred in several iconic films that defined 1980s cinema and continue to entertain audiences today through streaming platforms.
Breakthrough: Fast Times at Ridgemont High
Phoebe Cates’ breakthrough came with “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” in 1982. Playing Linda Barrett, she delivered what Rolling Stone magazine called “the most memorable bikini-drop in cinema history”—a scene that became one of the most iconic moments in 1980s film.
The movie was a massive cultural phenomenon, capturing teenage life in America with unprecedented authenticity. In 2005, the Library of Congress selected the film for preservation in the National Film Registry for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”
“Fast Times at Ridgemont High” launched multiple careers, including those of Sean Penn, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Forest Whitaker. However, Phoebe Cates’ performance stood out, making her one of the most recognizable faces of the decade.
The film’s success opened countless doors for the young actress, establishing her as a bankable star who could carry major studio productions.
Gremlins Franchise Success
In 1984, Phoebe Cates starred in “Gremlins” as Kate Beringer, solidifying her status as a Hollywood leading lady. The horror-comedy, directed by Joe Dante and produced by Steven Spielberg, became one of the year’s biggest hits.
“Gremlins” grossed $212.9 million worldwide against a $11 million budget—a massive return that made it one of 1984’s top-performing films. Phoebe’s role as the department store employee who befriends the adorable-yet-dangerous Mogwai creatures resonated with audiences worldwide.
She reprised her role in 1990’s “Gremlins 2: The New Batch,” which, while not as successful as the original, still performed respectably at the box office. Years later, she even provided her voice for the “Lego Dimensions” video game in 2015, introducing Kate Beringer to a new generation.
The Gremlins franchise remains beloved today, with both films regularly appearing on streaming platforms and cable television, generating ongoing royalty payments for Phoebe Cates.
Other Notable Films
Beyond her two most famous roles, Phoebe Cates appeared in several other notable films:
| Year | Film | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1982 | Paradise | Sarah | Film debut (controversial nudity) |
| 1983 | Private School | Christine Ramsey | Teen comedy |
| 1984 | Lace (TV) | Lili | Miniseries |
| 1987 | Date with an Angel | Patty Winston | Romantic comedy |
| 1988 | Bright Lights, Big City | Amanda | Drama with Michael J. Fox |
| 1989 | Shag | Carson McBride | Coming-of-age film |
| 1991 | Drop Dead Fred | Elizabeth Cronin | Cult classic comedy |
| 1993 | Bodies, Rest & Motion | Carol | Independent film |
| 2001 | The Anniversary Party | Sally Therrian | Final film role |
“Drop Dead Fred” (1991) became a cult classic despite mixed critical reception. Playing opposite Rik Mayall’s imaginary friend character, Phoebe delivered a performance that resonated with audiences who appreciated the film’s quirky humor.
Throughout her career, Phoebe Cates also sang, recording songs like “How Do I Let You Know” and “Just One Touch” for the “Private School” soundtrack, as well as the theme song for “Paradise.”
Why She Left Hollywood
In the mid-1990s, at the peak of her earning potential, Phoebe Cates made a surprising decision: she walked away from acting. Her retirement wasn’t due to lack of opportunities—she was turning down major roles.
Phoebe was originally cast as Steve Martin’s daughter in “Father of the Bride” (1991) but dropped out when she became pregnant with her first child. This decision marked the beginning of her exit from Hollywood.
In a 1998 interview, Kevin Kline explained their arrangement: “We have agreed to alternate so that we’re never working at the same time… whenever it’s been her slot to work, Phoebe has chosen to stay with the children.”
Phoebe Cates quit acting to embrace motherhood fully. She wanted to be present for her children’s daily lives, not missing milestones while on location for film shoots. This decision reflected her values: family over fame, presence over paychecks.
Her last official screen credit came in 2001 with “The Anniversary Party,” which she did as a favor to her friend Jennifer Jason Leigh, who directed the film. Since then, Phoebe has stayed firmly retired from Hollywood, with no intention of returning.
This retirement demonstrates remarkable discipline and clarity about priorities—qualities that distinguish Phoebe Cates from many of her 1980s contemporaries who continued chasing roles well into their later years.
Phoebe Cates Husband: Kevin Kline
Phoebe Cates is married to Kevin Kline, one of Hollywood’s most respected actors. Their marriage has lasted over 35 years, making them one of the entertainment industry’s most enduring couples.
How They Met
Phoebe and Kevin first crossed paths in 1983 when she auditioned for “The Big Chill.” Although she didn’t get the role, the meeting left an impression on both actors. At the time, both were involved with other people—Phoebe was dating Stavros Merjos, and Kevin was in another relationship.
Two years later, in 1985, they reconnected at New York City’s Public Theatre when both were single. The timing was finally right, and they began dating seriously. Their relationship developed away from the Hollywood spotlight, grounded in New York’s theater community rather than the Los Angeles film scene.
Kevin Kline, already an established theater actor with a Tony Award, appreciated Phoebe’s intelligence and down-to-earth personality. She, in turn, was drawn to his talent and dedication to his craft.
Marriage and Family Life
Phoebe Cates and Kevin Kline married on March 5, 1989, in a private ceremony in New York. Unlike many celebrity weddings, theirs was intimate and focused on close friends and family rather than media attention.
The couple welcomed their first child, son Owen Joseph Kline, on October 14, 1991. Their daughter, Greta Simone Kline, was born on March 21, 1994. Both children were raised primarily in Manhattan, with summers spent at the family’s property in Garrison, New York.
Their parenting philosophy centered on normalcy and privacy. Despite having famous parents, Owen and Greta attended regular schools and were shielded from excessive media attention. This approach allowed them to develop their own identities and interests.
The Kline-Cates family has maintained an unusually low profile for Hollywood standards. They rarely walk red carpets together and decline most interview requests about their personal lives. This privacy has undoubtedly contributed to their marriage’s longevity.
For decades, they’ve lived at 1125 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, one of New York’s most exclusive addresses. Their apartment, depending on layout, is worth between $10 million and $20 million. In 2019, Bette Midler listed the building’s penthouse for $50 million, indicating the premium value of this address.
Their Children’s Careers
Both of Phoebe Cates and Kevin Kline’s children have pursued creative careers, though neither followed directly in their parents’ footsteps into mainstream Hollywood.
Owen Kline (born 1991) chose filmmaking and acting. He appeared in his first film at age 14 in Noah Baumbach’s “The Squid and the Whale” (2005), playing Frank Berkman alongside Jeff Daniels. The performance earned critical acclaim and showcased natural talent.
However, Owen didn’t pursue acting aggressively. Instead, he focused on writing and directing. In 2022, he wrote and directed “Funny Pages,” an independent film that premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. His work shows a preference for quirky, artistic projects over commercial mainstream fare—a choice that reflects his parents’ values.
Greta Kline (born 1994) found success in music. Performing under the stage name “Frankie Cosmos,” she’s become a respected indie rock musician and singer-songwriter. Her lo-fi, confessional style has garnered a dedicated following.
Greta has released multiple albums, including “Zentropy” (2014), “Next Thing” (2016), and “Close It Quietly” (2019). Her music explores personal themes with intimate, stripped-down instrumentation. She’s toured internationally and built a career entirely separate from her parents’ fame.
Both children appeared alongside their parents in “The Anniversary Party” (2001), marking one of the rare times the entire family worked together professionally.
The success of Owen and Greta validates Phoebe’s decision to leave Hollywood. By prioritizing family, she raised two well-adjusted, talented individuals who’ve found their own creative paths without relying on their parents’ connections.
Life After Acting: Blue Tree Boutique
After retiring from acting, Phoebe Cates didn’t simply disappear. In 2005, she opened Blue Tree, an upscale boutique on Manhattan’s Madison Avenue at 1283 Madison Avenue (between 91st and 92nd Streets).
Blue Tree quickly became a beloved neighborhood fixture, offering carefully curated items that reflected Phoebe’s personal taste:
- Women’s apparel from emerging and established designers
- Jewelry and accessories with unique, artisanal pieces
- Home décor items ranging from candles to decorative objects
- Gift boxes and specialty items for special occasions
- Fragrances and beauty products
- Books on fashion, design, and lifestyle topics
The boutique’s aesthetic combined bohemian charm with sophisticated elegance. Regular customers included celebrities, Upper East Side residents, and fashion enthusiasts who appreciated Phoebe’s eye for distinctive merchandise.
Unlike many celebrity business ventures that rely on the star’s name alone, Blue Tree succeeded because of genuine effort and taste. Phoebe was often present at the store, personally selecting merchandise and interacting with customers. This hands-on approach created a loyal following.
The store operated successfully for 15 years, becoming as much a destination as a shopping venue. However, Blue Tree closed permanently in 2020, likely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic’s devastating impact on retail businesses.
While closed, Blue Tree represented an important chapter in Phoebe Cates’ post-Hollywood life. It proved she could build something meaningful outside entertainment, transitioning from actress to successful entrepreneur.
The boutique’s revenue contributed to her overall net worth, though exact figures were never publicly disclosed. Industry estimates suggest successful Manhattan boutiques in prime locations can generate $500,000 to $2 million in annual revenue, depending on size and inventory turnover.
Real Estate and Investments
Phoebe Cates and Kevin Kline have invested wisely in real estate, building substantial equity through strategic property purchases in premium locations.
Manhattan Property
Their primary residence at 1125 Fifth Avenue represents their most valuable real estate asset. This exclusive building overlooks Central Park and houses some of New York’s wealthiest residents.
The couple’s apartment value depends on its size and configuration, but comparable units in the building provide context:
| Property Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Building | 1125 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan |
| Location | Upper East Side, overlooking Central Park |
| Estimated Value | $10 million – $20 million |
| Notable Sales | Bette Midler’s penthouse listed at $50 million (2019) |
| Purchase Date | Not publicly disclosed |
Real estate in this building appreciates consistently due to its prestigious location, limited inventory, and historical significance. The Kline-Cates apartment has likely increased substantially in value since purchase.
Garrison Property
Outside Manhattan, Phoebe and Kevin own a 5+ acre farm property in Garrison, New York, approximately 50 miles north of Manhattan in the Hudson Valley. They purchased this property in 1988 for $770,000.
This estate serves as their weekend and summer retreat, providing privacy and connection to nature. The Garrison property has also appreciated significantly—Hudson Valley real estate has seen substantial growth over the past three decades, with similar properties now worth $2 million to $4 million.
Investment Strategy
The Kline-Cates investment approach demonstrates several smart principles:
- Location focus: Both properties are in prime New York locations with consistent appreciation
- Long-term holding: They’ve owned both properties for decades, riding out market fluctuations
- Practical use: These aren’t speculative investments but homes they actually live in and enjoy
- Conservative leverage: No reports suggest excessive debt or risky financial maneuvers
Their real estate holdings alone likely represent $12 million to $24 million in current value, forming a substantial portion of their combined $70 million net worth.
Beyond real estate, the couple presumably maintains diversified investment portfolios including stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments, though specific details remain private.
Phoebe Cates in 2025: Current Life
As of 2025, Phoebe Cates is 61 years old and living a deliberately private life in Manhattan. Unlike many former celebrities who struggle with post-fame identity, she appears genuinely content with her choices.
Current Activities:
- Family focus: Spending time with husband Kevin Kline and visiting their adult children
- Private lifestyle: Rarely makes public appearances or grants interviews
- Occasional events: Attends select film premieres and charity events with Kevin
- Royalty income: Continues receiving payments from her classic films on streaming platforms
- Real estate management: Overseeing their property investments
Phoebe occasionally appears at industry events supporting Kevin’s work but maintains strict boundaries about her own privacy. She’s largely absent from social media and doesn’t engage with fan communities or celebrity culture.
Recent public sightings include attending the Academy Awards with Kevin in 2009 and various theater premieres in New York. These rare appearances generate significant media interest, demonstrating her enduring appeal despite decades away from acting.
Her classic films continue finding new audiences through streaming services. “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” and “Gremlins” regularly trend on platforms like Netflix and HBO Max, introducing younger generations to her iconic performances. This ongoing exposure generates continued royalty payments and keeps her legacy alive.
The fact that Phoebe Cates’ net worth has remained stable at $35 million decades after retirement demonstrates the lasting value of her work and smart financial management.
In 2025, she represents a rare success story: someone who walked away from fame on her own terms and built a fulfilling life beyond Hollywood’s spotlight.
FAQs About Phoebe Cates
How much is Phoebe Cates worth?
Phoebe Cates’ net worth is $35 million as of 2025, earned through her 1980s acting career, business ventures, and real estate investments.
What is Phoebe Cates doing now?
Phoebe Cates is retired from acting and lives privately in Manhattan with her husband Kevin Kline, focusing on family and managing their investments.
Why did Phoebe Cates quit acting?
Phoebe Cates quit acting in the mid-1990s to focus on raising her children and being present for their daily lives rather than working on film sets.
Is Phoebe Cates still married to Kevin Kline?
Yes, Phoebe Cates and Kevin Kline have been married since 1989, celebrating over 35 years together in 2025.
How old is Phoebe Cates in 2025?
Phoebe Cates is 61 years old in 2025, having been born on July 16, 1963 in New York City.
What happened to Blue Tree boutique?
Blue Tree boutique, Phoebe Cates’ Madison Avenue store, operated successfully from 2005 to 2020 before closing, likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact.
Who are Phoebe Cates’ children?
Phoebe Cates has two children with Kevin Kline: Owen Kline (born 1991), a filmmaker, and Greta Kline (born 1994), a musician who performs as Frankie Cosmos.
What was Phoebe Cates’ most famous role?
Phoebe Cates’ most famous role was Linda Barrett in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” (1982), featuring one of cinema’s most iconic scenes.
Does Phoebe Cates still get royalties?
Yes, Phoebe Cates continues receiving royalty payments from her films through streaming services like Netflix, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime.
Will Phoebe Cates return to acting?
No indication suggests Phoebe Cates will return to acting—she has been firmly retired for over 20 years and appears content with her private life.
Conclusion
Phoebe Cates net worth of $35 million in 2025 represents more than just financial success—it reflects a life lived on her own terms. From 1980s icon to devoted mother to successful entrepreneur, she’s navigated fame with grace and intelligence.
Her journey from teenage model to Hollywood star to private citizen demonstrates that success doesn’t require remaining in the spotlight forever. By walking away from acting at her peak, Phoebe Cates prioritized what mattered most: family, privacy, and personal fulfillment.
Today, at 61, she enjoys the fruits of her earlier career through ongoing royalties, smart real estate investments, and a stable marriage spanning over three decades. Her children have launched their own creative careers, validating her decision to step back from Hollywood.
While fans might wish for her return to acting, Phoebe Cates’ story offers something more valuable—proof that celebrities can leave fame behind and build meaningful lives beyond the camera. Her enduring wealth, happy family, and continued relevance through streaming platforms confirm she made the right choice.
The actress who defined 1980s cinema with memorable performances in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” and “Gremlins” ultimately found greater success in the role she chose off-screen: being herself.