Eric Braeden’s Impressive Net Worth & Earnings Per ‘Y&R’ Episode in 2025
Eric Braeden has been a beloved figure in the entertainment industry for decades, thanks to his legendary portrayal of Victor Newman on The Young and the Restless. With such an extensive and successful career, many fans are curious about just how much he earns per episode and his overall net worth in 2025.
Born Hans-Jörg Gudegast on April 3, 1941, in Germany, Braeden later moved to the United States as a young adult, where he pursued his acting career. His journey in Hollywood began in the 1960s, securing roles in popular TV shows like Combat!, 12 O’Clock High, and Mission: Impossible. One of his early breakthrough roles was as Captain Hans Dietrich in The Rat Patrol, which helped him gain recognition. Over the years, he made guest appearances in several iconic series, including Hawaii Five-O, Gunsmoke, Wonder Woman, Kojak, and CHiPs.
However, it was in 1980 that Braeden landed the role that would define his career—Victor Newman on The Young and the Restless. Originally intended as a short-term role, Victor quickly became a fan favorite, and Braeden continued portraying him for decades, making him one of the longest-running actors in daytime television. His powerful performance as the ruthless yet complex businessman earned him widespread acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
Beyond his work on Y&R, Braeden also appeared in hit shows like Murder, She Wrote, The Nanny, and How I Met Your Mother. Additionally, he took on the role of John Jacob Astor IV in James Cameron’s 1997 blockbuster film Titanic, further cementing his place in Hollywood history.
Despite being in the industry for so many years, Braeden has no intention of retiring. In an interview, he expressed his deep connection to the character of Victor, describing him as a strong, self-made man who remains vulnerable due to his troubled past. While there were moments when contract negotiations made him consider stepping away from the role, things always worked out, and he remains a staple on the show.
With such a long and accomplished career, Braeden has amassed an impressive fortune. Reports estimate his net worth in 2025 to be around $20 million. Soap opera actors on The Young and the Restless typically earn a base salary of $1,517 per day for hour-long episodes, but as one of the most senior and essential cast members, Braeden’s earnings are likely significantly higher.
His dedication to the role has earned him multiple Daytime Emmy nominations, and in 1998, he won a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. Even after decades on the show, he continues to bring depth and intensity to his character, proving why he remains one of the most respected and admired actors in daytime television.
