Tommy Chong: Net Worth, Life, Career, and Family

Tommy Chong, born Thomas B. Kin Chong on May 24, 1938, is a Canadian-American comedian, actor, musician, and cultural icon. He rose to global fame in the 1970s as one-half of the counterculture comedy duo Cheech & Chong. Alongside Cheech Marin, he built a comedic empire based on stoner humor, music albums, and a string of cult-classic movies that continue to resonate with fans.

Beyond comedy, Chong is a cannabis activist, entrepreneur, and author, making him a legendary figure not just in Hollywood but also in cannabis culture. He later reinvented himself through TV shows, film appearances, and reality competitions, keeping his name relevant across generations.

Tommy Chong’s Age

Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Chong turned 87 years old in 2025. His longevity and continued involvement in entertainment and activism highlight his resilience. He has publicly battled health issues, including cancer, but remains active in media and social appearances, inspiring many with his upbeat outlook.

Tommy Chong’s Net Worth

As of 2025, Tommy Chong’s estimated net worth is around $20 million. His wealth comes from multiple sources:

• Comedy Albums and Tours: Cheech & Chong’s Grammy-winning comedy albums and tours were immensely profitable in the 1970s and 1980s.
• Movies: Box office successes like Up in Smoke established him as a bankable star.
• Television: Recurring roles on hit shows, particularly That ’70s Show, expanded his fan base.
• Cannabis Business Ventures: Chong has launched branded cannabis products, capitalizing on the marijuana legalization wave.
• Books and Appearances: His memoirs and participation in reality shows added to his income stream.

Though not among Hollywood’s richest, Chong’s net worth reflects his enduring appeal and diverse career.

Tommy Chong’s Movies

Chong’s filmography is extensive, with his most famous works being part of the Cheech & Chong franchise:

• Up in Smoke (1978)
• Cheech & Chong’s Next Movie (1980)
• Nice Dreams (1981)
• Things Are Tough All Over (1982)
• Still Smokin (1983)
• Cheech & Chong’s The Corsican Brothers (1984)

Outside the duo’s work, he appeared in:

• Far Out Man (1990)
• Half Baked (1998)
• Evil Bong series (2006–2012)
• Zootopia (2016, as the voice of Yax the Yak)
• Color Out of Space (2019)

His mix of cult comedies and mainstream roles proves his flexibility as an entertainer.

Tommy Chong’s TV Shows

Chong gained a whole new generation of fans with his role as Leo Chingkwake on That ’70s Show. His laid-back, hippie persona fit seamlessly into the sitcom, becoming one of the show’s most beloved recurring characters. He reprised the role in the Netflix reboot That ’90s Show.

Other notable TV appearances include:

• Dancing with the Stars (2014) – He reached the semi-finals with pro dancer Peta Murgatroyd.
• The Masked Singer (2019) – Appeared as the “Pineapple.”
• Guest spots on shows like MADtv, Sliders, and voice acting in animated series.

Tommy Chong’s Relationships

Chong’s personal life has been as eventful as his career.

Tommy Chong and Maxine Sneed

Chong’s first marriage was to Maxine Sneed in 1960. Their marriage lasted a decade before ending in divorce in 1970. Together, they raised daughters Rae Dawn and Robbi.

Married to Shelby Chong

In 1975, Chong married Shelby Fiddis (Shelby Chong), an actress, comedian, and producer. Shelby has been both his partner in life and collaborator in work, appearing in Cheech & Chong films and producing projects. Their marriage has lasted nearly 50 years, making it one of Hollywood’s most enduring unions.

Tommy Chong’s Kids

Chong is the proud father of six children:

• Rae Dawn Chong (actress, born 1961)
• Robbi Chong (actress/model, born 1965)
• Paris Chong (son)
• Gilbran Chong (son)
• Precious Chong (actress/comedian, born 1968)
• Marcus Chong (adopted son, also an actor best known for The Matrix)

Many of his children followed him into show business, carrying forward the family’s creative legacy.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Tommy Chong is more than a comedian; he is a counterculture icon. His comedy helped destigmatize conversations around cannabis, making him a folk hero among advocates for legalization. His work has inspired countless comedians, filmmakers, and activists.

Even into his 80s, Chong continues to appear in media, advocate for cannabis reform, and connect with fans young and old.

Conclusion

From his beginnings in comedy clubs to worldwide fame with Cheech & Chong, from cult movies to beloved TV roles, Tommy Chong has crafted a career that spans over six decades. His wealth, while significant, pales in comparison to his cultural influence as a comedian, activist, and survivor.

Tommy Chong remains proof that humor, resilience, and authenticity can sustain a legacy. For more in-depth celebrity stories and entertainment features, check out fanzineblog.