Jon Gries: A Career Filled with Cult Classics and Enduring Characters
Who is Jon Gries?
Jon Gries is an American actor, writer, and director with a career spanning over five decades. He’s widely recognized for his portrayal of Uncle Rico in the cult classic comedy film Napoleon Dynamite, a role that earned him an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Supporting Male. Gries’ filmography boasts a diverse range of characters, from comedic sidekicks to complex villains, leaving his mark on both television and film.
Career Highlights
| Category | Notable Roles |
| Television | Martin (Shawn McDermott), Lost (Roger Linus), The Pretender (Jarod), Dream Corp LLC (Dr. Roberts), The White Lotus (Greg Hunt) |
| Film | Napoleon Dynamite (Uncle Rico), Men in Black (Agent Newton), Real Genius (Lazlo Hollyfeld), Get Shorty (Ronnie Wingate), The Rundown (Harvey) |
Jon Gries’ Acting Career
Early Career Roles
Following in the footsteps of his father, a director and producer, Gries began acting at a young age. His first credited role came at the tender age of 11 in the film Will Penny (1968). Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he built a steady career with appearances in films like Real Genius (1985), The Monster Squad (1987), and Seinfeld (1998).
Breakthrough Role in Napoleon Dynamite
The 2004 comedy Napoleon Dynamite became a cultural phenomenon, propelling Gries to mainstream recognition. His portrayal of Uncle Rico, a character fixated on his glory days in high school football, resonated with audiences and cemented his comedic timing.
Television Work
Gries has graced the small screen with numerous notable roles. He played Shawn McDermott, the flamboyant neighbor on the sitcom Martin (1992-1994). He then went on to portray the enigmatic Jarod on the science fiction series The Pretender (1996-2000). His recurring role as Roger Linus on the critically acclaimed Lost (2007-2010) further solidified his presence on television. More recently, he appeared in shows like Dream Corp LLC (2016) and currently stars as Greg Hunt in the HBO series The White Lotus (2021-present).
Film Work
Gries has a knack for finding iconic roles in popular films. He delivered a memorable performance as Agent Newton in the sci-fi comedy Men in Black (1997). He also appeared in films like Get Shorty (1995), The Rundown (2003), and Taken (2008).
Recent Projects
Gries continues to be active in the entertainment industry. He currently portrays the wealthy and troubled guest Greg Hunt in the critically acclaimed HBO series The White Lotus (2021-present).
Jon Gries’ Net Worth
While Jon Gries’ exact net worth is not publicly available, estimates suggest it falls in the range of $5 million to $10 million.
How Did Jon Gries Earn His Net Worth?
The bulk of Jon Gries’ net worth undoubtedly stems from his extensive acting career. His roles in countless films and television shows have likely generated a significant income.
Conclusion
Jon Gries’ career is a testament to his versatility and talent. From hilarious characters like Uncle Rico to complex roles in television dramas, he has consistently delivered memorable performances. With his ongoing work in projects like The White Lotus, Jon Gries continues to be a captivating presence in the entertainment industry.
