George Peppard was an American actor best known for starring alongside Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” playing the title character in “Banacek,” and portraying the unforgettable Colonel John “Hannibal” Smith in the hit television series “The A-Team.” His successful career in film, television, and stage productions made him one of Hollywood’s recognizable leading men during the 1960s through the 1980s.
At the time of his death in 1994, George Peppard had an estimated net worth of $2.5 million, equivalent to approximately $5 million today after adjusting for inflation.
| George Peppard Net Worth | $2.5 Million |
| Date of Birth | October 1, 1928 |
| Place of Birth | Detroit, Michigan |
How George Peppard Built His Wealth
Peppard established himself as one of Hollywood’s leading actors during the early 1960s.
His breakthrough arrived in 1961 when he starred opposite Audrey Hepburn in the romantic classic “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” The film significantly elevated his profile and opened the door to leading roles in major studio productions.
Throughout his career, he appeared in notable films including:
- “Home from the Hill” (1960)
- “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961)
- “How the West Was Won” (1962)
- “The Carpetbaggers” (1964)
- “The Blue Max” (1966)
- “House of Cards” (1968)
- “Battle Beyond the Stars” (1980)
He later became a television star through the detective series “Banacek” and the hugely successful action series “The A-Team.”
Early Life
George Peppard was born on October 1, 1928, in Detroit, Michigan.
After graduating from Dearborn High School in 1946, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving until 1948.
He later studied civil engineering at Purdue University, where he also became involved in theater through the Purdue Playmakers. Peppard eventually transferred to the Carnegie Institute of Technology, earning his bachelor’s degree in 1955.
While living in Pittsburgh, he trained at the Pittsburgh Playhouse and worked as a radio disc jockey before moving to New York City to study at the prestigious Actors Studio.
Film Career
Peppard made his film debut in the 1957 noir “The Strange One.”
His career gained momentum with “Home from the Hill” before his breakthrough role as Paul Varjak opposite Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.”
Following the success of that film, he starred in several high-profile productions, including “The Carpetbaggers,” where he portrayed a character inspired by aviation billionaire Howard Hughes.
Other notable films included “Operation Crossbow,” “The Blue Max,” “Tobruk,” “Pendulum,” and “The Groundstar Conspiracy.”
In addition to acting, Peppard also directed the 1978 film “Five Days from Home.”
Television Success
Although Peppard initially focused on movies, television became an equally important part of his career.
He starred as insurance investigator Thomas Banacek in the popular detective series “Banacek,” which aired from 1972 to 1974 as part of NBC’s Mystery Movie lineup.
His biggest television success arrived in 1983 when he was cast as Colonel John “Hannibal” Smith in “The A-Team.”
As the leader of the team of former military commandos, Peppard became famous for the character’s signature line:
“I love it when a plan comes together.”
“The A-Team” became one of television’s biggest action series during the 1980s, running for five successful seasons before ending in 1987.
Stage Career
Although best known for film and television, Peppard also appeared on stage throughout his career.
He made his Broadway debut in “Girls of Summer” in 1956 before returning to theater later in life.
In 1988, he portrayed legendary writer Ernest Hemingway in the touring production “PAPA.”
He later starred as King Henry II in a touring production of “The Lion in Winter” in 1992.
Personal Life
George Peppard was married five times and had three children.
During the 1970s, he openly battled alcoholism before achieving sobriety.
He was also a heavy smoker for much of his adult life, reportedly smoking up to three packs of cigarettes a day before quitting in 1992 after being diagnosed with lung cancer.
Death
George Peppard died on May 8, 1994, at the age of 65.
He passed away from pneumonia while undergoing treatment for lung cancer.
Peppard was laid to rest beside his parents at Northview Cemetery in Dearborn, Michigan.
Also Read: Audrey Hepburn Net Worth
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