Jaws star keeps earning from old film

A former Jaws actor reveals ongoing earnings from the 1975 hit, showing how a small role can pay off for years through fan engagements and residuals.

Jaws child star continues to earn from film decades later

Jeffrey Voorhees, who played Alex Kintner as a 12 year old in the 1975 film Jaws, is now 62 and still earns money from the movie. He travels for signings, hosts meet and greet events, sells personalised memorabilia, and leads guided tours on Martha's Vineyard where the film was shot. He also says he is paid every time Jaws airs on TV worldwide, and his Cameo videos have drawn paying families.

While Jaws became a box office success and a lasting cultural phenomenon, Voorhees notes that the revenue comes from a niche fan ecosystem. The article recounts Spielberg's comments about difficult filming conditions and the film's enduring popularity, and mentions that Jaws has expanded into sequels, theme park rides, and merchandise. It highlights how a small early role can resonate for a lifetime.

The story shows how a single film can create a long tail of income for those who appeared in it, especially when the work becomes a cultural touchstone. It also reveals the growing economy around nostalgia, where fans invest in experiences, memorabilia, and creator-led content. At the same time, it raises questions about how we value acts performed as children and how public fascination can monetize a life long after the screen moment.

Highlights

The Jaws story shows how a moment on screen can echo through a life off screen.