Jay Harrington is an American actor who’s made a name for himself in both television and film. Known for his roles in S.W.A.T. and Better Off Ted, he’s also ventured into various business ventures, which have contributed to his net worth.
As of 2025, jay harrington net worth is estimated to be around $8 million. But what truly set him apart from other actors in the industry? Let’s dive into his life and career to uncover how he built his fortune.
Jay Harrington Profile Summary:
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | James H. Harrington III |
| Born | November 15, 1971, Wellesley, Massachusetts |
| Profession | Actor, Television & Film |
| Notable Roles | Deacon Kay in S.W.A.T., Ted in Better Off Ted, Various Films |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated at $8 million |
| Salary (S.W.A.T.) | Around $30,000 per episode |
| Additional Income | Film roles, restaurant ownership (Rock ‘N Pies), Real Estate |
| Personal Life | Ex-wife Monica Richards (divorced in 2019), Partner Kierstan Saulter |
| Children | None as of 2025 |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, California |
Who Is Jay Harrington?
Jay Harrington, born on November 15, 1971, in Wellesley, Massachusetts, is a talented American actor best known for his roles in the sitcom Better Off Ted and the action-packed series S.W.A.T.
A graduate of Syracuse University with a theater degree, he has built a successful career in both television and film. Over the years, Harrington has become a respected figure in the entertainment industry, gaining recognition for his versatile acting and occasional directing work.
Early Life & Career Beginnings
Born on November 15, 1971, in Wellesley, Massachusetts, Jay Harrington had a humble beginning. He grew up in a supportive family, which helped nurture his early passion for acting. While attending college, he studied communications and began honing his skills in local theater before leaping Hollywood. His early career consisted of small TV roles, but these paved the way for bigger opportunities.
Rise to Fame
Jay’s big break came when he landed the role of Ted Crisp on the hit sitcom Better Off Ted. His portrayal of the quirky, lovable character gained him significant attention. However, it was his role as Deacon Kay in S.W.A.T. that truly catapulted him to fame. As a key member of the team in this high-action series, he showcased his talent for both drama and action, earning a steady paycheck and making him a familiar face to audiences worldwide. This role solidified his place in the industry and contributed significantly to his rising net worth.
Jay Harrington Net Worth Breakdown (2025)
As of 2025, Jay Harrington’s net worth is estimated to be around $8 million. His career in television and film, particularly his long-standing role on S.W.A.T., has played a major role in his financial success. With continued success in his acting career and additional income streams, he’s managed to build a solid financial foundation.
Breakdown of Income from Acting
A significant portion of Jay’s net worth comes from his acting roles, especially his role as Deacon Kay in S.W.A.T.. He reportedly earns around $30,000 per episode from the show, which adds up to a substantial annual income. His earlier role in Better Off Ted also contributed to his career growth and financial gains, though S.W.A.T. has been the primary source of his acting income.
Income from Other Ventures
In addition to acting, Jay Harrington has diversified his income through various business ventures. He owns a restaurant, Rock ‘N Pies, which has brought in substantial earnings. He has also made smart investments in real estate, which contribute to his growing wealth, further solidifying his financial standing outside of acting.
Personal Life & Relationships
When it comes to his personal life, Jay Harrington has kept much of it private. He was married to Monica Richards, but the couple divorced in 2019. There are no children reported as of 2025, and Jay has since found a new partner, Kierstan Saulter. Despite the ups and downs in his personal life, he has remained focused on his career and business ventures, continuing to grow both personally and professionally.
Current and Future Projects:
Jay Harrington is continuously working on new projects that keep his career thriving. While S.W.A.T. remains a major part of his portfolio, he has hinted at expanding into new genres and possibly directorial roles soon. His dedication to acting and passion for exploring different roles mean that fans can expect to see more from him, both on screen and behind the scenes.
How TV Stars Make Money: A Behind-the-Scenes Look?
TV stars make money in various ways, and it’s not just about their episode paycheck. Here’s how actors, like Jay Harrington, build and maintain their wealth.
1. Episode Paycheck: A Numbers Game
Securing a lead role in a network TV series brings a steady salary, but the amount you make per episode depends on the show’s popularity, the actor’s experience, and the network’s budget. For example, actors like Jay Harrington might not earn a fortune per episode, but consistent roles provide steady earnings.
2. Syndication & Residuals
Actors make money when their shows air in reruns, but this typically only applies to shows with long runs. While Better Off Ted was short-lived, S.W.A.T. continues to pay residuals the longer it airs, providing extra earnings for Harrington even when he’s not actively filming.
3. Brand Endorsements & Side Hustles
Beyond TV roles, actors often earn money through endorsements, commercials, or paid appearances. While Harrington may not be endorsing top-tier brands, side projects still contribute to his income and keep him financially steady.
4. Voice Acting & Guest Appearances
Many actors increase their earnings by lending their voices to animated shows, commercials, or video games. Guest appearances in popular TV series also pay well, adding extra cash to their earnings while keeping them in the public eye.
So, What’s the Bottom Line?
In Hollywood, the most reliable route to financial security is steady work, rather than short-lived fame. Jay Harrington’s consistent career serves as a reminder that staying in the game can be more rewarding than being a one-hit wonder. Would you prefer a consistent career like Harrington’s, or risk the rollercoaster ride of fame? Staying in the game may just be the real jackpot.
Conclusion
Jay Harrington’s career continues to thrive, with roles in popular TV shows like S.W.A.T., along with successful business ventures. His ongoing success and ability to diversify his income ensure that his future is full of potential. As he explores new opportunities, we can expect more exciting projects from this talented actor in the years to come.