Tommy Chong: Net Worth, Age, Career, Family, and Legacy

Tommy Chong is a name synonymous with stoner comedy, counterculture, and a career spanning over five decades in entertainment. Known for his work with Cheech Marin as part of the legendary duo Cheech & Chong, as well as his role on That ’70s Show, Chong has carved out a unique niche in Hollywood. Beyond comedy, he is a musician, director, cannabis activist, husband, and father of six. This article explores Tommy Chong’s net worth, biography, age, television and film career, relationships, and family life.

Who is Tommy Chong?

Thomas B. Kin Chong, professionally known as Tommy Chong, was born on May 24, 1938, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Raised in Calgary, Chong is of mixed heritage: his father, Stanley Chong, was Chinese-Canadian, and his mother, Lorna Jean, was of Scots-Irish descent. From an early age, he developed an interest in music and comedy, which paved the way for his eventual rise to fame.

Chong first made waves in the entertainment industry as a musician in the 1960s, playing guitar for bands like Bobby Taylor & the Vancouvers, who were signed to Motown Records. However, it was his comedic partnership with Cheech Marin in the early 1970s that truly launched him into stardom. Their unique humor, centered around marijuana culture, resonated with the countercultural movement of the time.

Tommy Chong’s Age

As of 2025, Tommy Chong is 87 years old. Despite his age, he remains active in entertainment and public life. He often credits his healthy lifestyle, humor, and cannabis advocacy for his longevity. Chong has battled prostate and colorectal cancer in the past but has continued to live vibrantly, embracing his role as both an entertainer and activist.

Tommy Chong’s Net Worth

Celebrity wealth estimates vary, but most sources place Tommy Chong’s net worth at approximately $20 million. His income comes from multiple avenues:

• Comedy albums and tours with Cheech Marin, which sold millions of copies worldwide.
• Movies in the Cheech & Chong franchise, starting with Up in Smoke (1978), which grossed over $44 million at the box office and became a cult classic.
• Acting in TV shows and films, most notably his recurring role as Leo on That ’70s Show.
• Voice acting, including the character Yax in Disney’s Zootopia (2016).
• Business ventures, including cannabis-related products and endorsements, capitalizing on his identity as a marijuana icon.

Though he faced financial setbacks, including legal troubles in the early 2000s when he was prosecuted for selling drug paraphernalia, Chong’s ability to reinvent himself has ensured his continued financial stability.

Tommy Chong’s Movies

Tommy Chong’s film career is most closely tied to his collaboration with Cheech Marin. Their movies remain cult favorites for stoner comedy enthusiasts. Key films include:

1. Up in Smoke (1978) – Their debut and most successful film, often credited with creating the “stoner movie” genre.
2. Cheech & Chong’s Next Movie (1980) – Continued their misadventures with wild comedy sketches.
3. Nice Dreams (1981) – Focused on their attempt to sell ice cream infused with marijuana.
4. Still Smokin (1983) – Part concert film, part comedy sketches.
5. Cheech & Chong’s The Corsican Brothers (1984) – A parody period film showing their range as comedians.
6. Half Baked (1998) – Chong had a memorable cameo as a fellow stoner in prison.
7. Zootopia (2016) – He voiced Yax, a laid-back yak, showing his relevance even in family-friendly projects.
8. Color Out of Space (2019) – A horror film showcasing Chong’s versatility in serious roles.

Tommy Chong’s TV Shows

While Chong is best known for his film work, his television career is equally notable:

• That ’70s Show (1999–2006, 2016 guest return) – He played Leo Chingkwake, the eccentric, hippie-like owner of the Fotohut. His spaced-out humor made Leo a fan favorite.
• That ’90s Show (2023) – Chong reprised his role as Leo in Netflix’s sequel series.
• Dancing with the Stars (2014) – Partnered with Peta Murgatroyd, Chong surprised audiences by reaching the semi-finals at age 76.
• The Masked Singer (2019) – He appeared as “Pineapple,” delighting fans with his quirky performance.
• Guest appearances on shows like South Park, The Simpsons, and Nash Bridges.

His TV roles often leaned into his cannabis-friendly persona but also demonstrated his enduring comedic timing.

Tommy Chong’s Relationships

Tommy Chong and Maxine Sneed

In 1960, Tommy Chong married Maxine Sneed, a Canadian editor of Black Radio Magazine. Together, they had two daughters, Rae Dawn and Robbi Chong. The marriage ended in divorce in 1970, but they remained connected through their children.

Marriage to Shelby Chong

In 1975, Chong married Shelby Fiddis (known professionally as Shelby Chong). Shelby is an actress, comedian, and producer who has collaborated with Tommy throughout his career. Their relationship has endured for nearly 50 years, making them one of Hollywood’s most enduring couples. Shelby also became a producer for several Cheech & Chong films.

Tommy Chong’s Kids

Tommy Chong is the proud father of six children:

1. Rae Dawn Chong – Born in 1961, Rae Dawn is an actress known for films like Quest for Fire (1981) and Commando (1985).
2. Robbi Chong – Born in 1965, Robbi is a model and actress who appeared in films like The Serpent and the Rainbow (1988).
3. Paris Chong – Works in the family’s cannabis ventures and has appeared in documentaries about Tommy.
4. Gilbran Chong – An actor and occasional performer.
5. Precious Chong – An actress and stand-up comedian, active in Canadian entertainment.
6. Marcus Chong (adopted) – Known for his role as Tank in The Matrix (1999).

The Chong family includes several successful entertainers, carrying forward the creative legacy of their father.

Tommy Chong’s Influence on Cannabis Culture

Chong’s identity as a cannabis icon is central to his legacy. While some dismissed his early work as niche stoner humor, his advocacy for legalization and normalization of marijuana use has proven prescient. He has:

• Released cannabis-themed merchandise and smoking accessories.
• Advocated for marijuana legalization in interviews, documentaries, and public appearances.
• Credited cannabis as part of his recovery from cancer, cementing his role as both entertainer and activist.

Chong’s blend of humor and advocacy has inspired generations of fans and activists alike.

Challenges and Controversies

Chong’s career hasn’t been without challenges:

• 2003 Legal Issues: He was sentenced to nine months in prison for distributing drug paraphernalia through his company, Chong Glass.
• Health Struggles: He publicly battled prostate cancer and colorectal cancer, both of which he credits cannabis and alternative therapies in helping him manage.

Despite setbacks, Chong has consistently bounced back, showing resilience and adaptability.

Tommy Chong Today

At 87, Tommy Chong remains active. He continues to:

• Appear in TV shows and films.
• Speak publicly about cannabis legalization.
• Engage with fans through social media.
• Work alongside Shelby and his children on various entertainment and cannabis-related projects.

His humor, warmth, and authenticity have kept him relevant across multiple generations.

Conclusion

Tommy Chong’s journey from Canadian guitarist to Hollywood icon is a story of resilience, creativity, and authenticity. Whether as one-half of Cheech & Chong, Leo from That ’70s Show, or a cannabis activist, Chong has left an indelible mark on entertainment and counterculture. With a net worth estimated at $20 million, a career spanning over 50 years, and a loving family by his side, Tommy Chong’s legacy is secure.

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