Bill Daily’s net worth is a result of his fame as an American actor and comedian, particularly for his role as Major Roger Healey on I Dream of Jeannie. He also starred as Howard Borden in The Bob Newhart Show. Born on August 30, 1927, in Des Moines, Iowa, Bill Daily’s impact on television history is undeniable.
His sitcom work is memorable, and he played a crucial part in shaping classic TV shows. Daily’s career spanned decades in the entertainment industry, and his work remains iconic in television history. His roles in I Dream of Jeannie and The Bob Newhart Show brought laughter to audiences.
Even after his passing on September 4, 2018, his fame and legacy continue to live on. Bill Daily’s net worth stands as a testament to his lasting influence on television and comedy.
Bill Daily’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
| Bill Daily net worth | $4 million |
| Age | 91 years old |
| Birthdate | August 30, 1927 |
| Death | September 4, 2018 |
| Birthplace | Des Moines, Iowa |
| Height | 6 ft (1.83 m) |
| Gender | Male |
| Profession | Actor, comedian |
| Television Shows | I Dream of Jeannie, The Bob Newhart Show |
| Full Name | William Edward Daily |
| Spouses | Patricia Anderson, Vivian Sanchez, Becky Daily |
| Children | 2 children |
| Career Span | 1953-2011 |
| Actor Achievements | Television impact, legacy |
| Actor Wealth | $4 million |
Bill Daily Net Worth
Bill Daily’s net worth was $4 million when he passed away in 2018. Born in Des Moines, Iowa, on August 1927, he became a celebrated actor and comedian. Bill starred as Roger Healey in I Dream of Jeannie and Howard Borden in The Bob Newhart Show, two iconic television series. His roles on these shows, along with his appearances on The Love Boat, ALF, and Horrorween, cemented his television legacy.
From 1965 to 1970, Bill played the lovable Roger Healey. He also portrayed Dr James Shepherd on Starting from Scratch in 1988-1989. Bill’s fame grew through roles in The Farmer’s Daughter, Chips, and Caroline in the City.
He was honoured with a TV Land Icon Award for his television impact. His acting career spanned decades, with countless milestones and award nominations. Even at the age of 91 years old, his actor legacy remains strong in television history.
Bill Daily: Early Life & Career Journey
Bill Daily was born on August 30, 1927, in Des Moines, Iowa. His family moved to Chicago, where he spent his youth. Bill attended Lane Technical High School and later studied at Peterson Theatre School. He began his career as a professional musician, playing upright bass in jazz bands across the Midwest.
In the Korean War, Bill served first in an artillery unit and later joined the entertainment unit. Despite his father’s abandonment, Bill’s passion for entertainment remained strong. His army service and musician career laid the groundwork for his future in television.
- Born: William Edward Daily, in Des Moines, Iowa, on August 30, 1927.
- Education: Attended Lane Technical High School and studied at the Peterson Theatre School.
- Musician career: Played upright bass in jazz bands across the Midwest.
- Korean War service: Served in both an artillery unit and an entertainment unit.
- Family history: Father left and never returned, impacting Bill’s early years.
- Career start: Enlisted in the army, pursued a musical career in the Midwest.
Bill Daily’s Iconic Comedy Career
1950s: Early Career and Comedy Beginnings
Bill Daily began his career in the 1950s after serving in the Korean War. He transitioned from playing upright bass in jazz bands across the Midwest to stand-up comedy. After attending Goodman Theatre School, Bill worked for NBC’s WMAQ in Chicago as an announcer and floor manager.
During this time, he collaborated with Bob Newhart on the routine “Abe Lincoln vs. Madison Avenue,” which helped launch his career. He also performed on The Mike Douglas Show and appeared in Cleveland to write, direct, and perform comedy.
1960s: Bill Daily’s Television Breakthrough
In the 1960s, Bill Daily landed his most iconic role as Roger Healey on the hit sitcom I Dream of Jeannie. His portrayal of the Army Captain opposite Barbara Eden’s genie became a television classic, earning him a spot in television history.
Following the show’s success, Bill appeared as Howard Borden in The Bob Newhart Show from 1972 to 1978. His role as a quirky commercial airline navigator made him a household name and solidified his status as a key figure in television history.
1970s to 1980s: Expanding Horizons and New Ventures
After The Bob Newhart Show, Bill returned to stand-up comedy and became a regular on Match Game in the late 1970s. In 1980, he starred in the short-lived show Small & Frye, where he played a neurotic doctor, but it was cancelled after just a few months.
Bill also starred in Aloha Paradise (1981), a series set in Hawaii, and hosted the Hocus-Pocus Gang specials, which introduced young magicians to television. These projects marked his continued expansion beyond traditional sitcom roles and showcased his versatility in television appearances.
1990s and Beyond: Reunions and Final Appearances
In the 1990s, Bill Daily reprised his role as Roger Healey in the reunion movies I Dream of Jeannie… Fifteen Years Later (1985) and I Still Dream of Jeannie (1991). He also appeared on Caroline in the City in 1997 and made occasional guest appearances in the 2000s.
His career also led him to host a radio show on KBQI in Albuquerque from 2006 to 2009, keeping his presence alive even after retirement. Throughout his life, Bill remained a beloved figure in comedy and television, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to influence fans.
Personal Life, Legacy, and Final Years
Bill Daily married Patricia Anderson in 1949, and they divorced in 1976. He had two adopted children, Patrick and Kimberley, who have since passed away. In 1980, Bill married Vivian Sanchez, and they performed Lover’s Leap together on the road.
They divorced later, and in 1993, Bill married his third wife, Becky. They remained married until Becky died in 2010. Bill Daily’s family played a significant role in his life and legacy.
Bill passed away on September 4, 2018, at the age of 91 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, from natural causes. His death announcement was made public three days later, and his ashes were scattered nearby. Throughout his life, Bill stayed connected to fans with public appearances and television appearances.
His career impact, spouse names, family announcements, and divorces marked key milestones in his story. Bill Daily’s life achievements and spouse relationship continue to contribute to his lasting television legacy.
Bill Daily Filmography: Iconic TV Roles & Movies
Bill Daily’s filmography includes iconic TV roles and movies that span decades of comedic work. From I Dream of Jeannie to his roles on The Bob Newhart Show, his career flourished. Here’s a look at some of his key projects:
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
| 1964 | Bewitched | Mr. Johnson | Episode: “A Vision of Sugar Plums” |
| 1965 | The Farmer’s Daughter | Manfred | Episode: “Katy by Moonlight” |
| 1965–1970 | I Dream of Jeannie | Captain / Major Roger Healey | 131 episodes |
| 1965 | My Mother the Car | Phil Durkin | Episode: “The De-Fenders” |
| 1969 | In Name Only | Peter Garrity | TV movie |
| 1978 | The Love Boat | Paul Turner | Segment: “Rent a Family” (Parts 1 & 2) |
| 1980 | Valentine Magic on Love Island | Charles | TV movie |
| 1981 | Aloha Paradise | Curtis Shea | 8 episodes |
| 1983 | Trapper John, M.D. | Mr. Stevens | Episode: “The Spy Who Bugged Me” |
| 1985 | I Dream of Jeannie… Fifteen Years Later | Colonel Roger Healey | TV movie |
| 1987–1989 | ALF | Dr. Larry Dykstra | 4 episodes |
| 1990 | Newhart | Sam Leary | Episode: “Good Neighbor Sam” |
| 1997 | Caroline in the City | Charlie’s Father | 2 episodes |
| 1991 | I Still Dream of Jeannie | Colonel Roger Healey | TV movie |
| 1997 | George and Leo | The Pilot | Episode: “The Cameo Show” |
Bill portrayed various characters, such as a neurotic doctor in Small & Frye and a psychiatrist in ALF. His famous role as Roger Healey in I Dream of Jeannie made him a household name. His career achievements are significant, leaving a long-lasting legacy in television. Bill’s TV roles defined his career and remain beloved by fans worldwide.
Connect with Bill Daily Online
| Platform | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Bill Daily Facebook | |
| Wikipedia | Bill Daily on Wikipedia |
FAQs
1. Was Bill Daily a real pilot?
No, Bill Daily played the role of an airline navigator and later a co-pilot on The Bob Newhart Show, but he was not a real pilot.
2. What was Bill Daily’s net worth when he died?
At the time of his death in 2018, Bill Daily had a net worth of $4 million. He was a renowned actor and comedian, known for his iconic roles in shows like I Dream of Jeannie and The Bob Newhart Show.
3. What was the cause of Bill Daily’s death?
Bill Daily passed away from natural causes in 2018. His family shared the news of his passing three days after his death.
4. Who were Bill Daily’s wives?
Bill Daily was married three times:
- Patricia Anderson (1949–1976), with whom he had two adopted children, Patrick and Kimberley (who is deceased).
- Vivian Sanchez (1980–divorced), with whom he travelled performing Lover’s Leap.
- Becky Daily (1993–2010), who remained his wife until she died in 2010.
5. How tall was Bill Daily?
Bill Daily was 6 feet tall (1.83 m).
6. How old was Bill Daily when he passed away?
Bill Daily passed away at the age of 91 years old on September 4, 2018.
7. How many children did Bill Daily have?
Bill Daily had three children from his marriages:
- J. Patrick Daily (adopted from his first marriage).
- Kimberley (adopted from his first marriage, now deceased).
- Becca (daughter from his second marriage to Vivian Sanchez).
Read More: Nick Cannon Net Worth 2024: Biography, Fame & Massive Wealth