Highlights
- David Harris achieved lasting recognition through his role as Cochise in “The Warriors” (1979), which became his signature role and brought him international fame despite initially being considered “a little film” by the actor himself.
- His career demonstrated impressive versatility – spanning from Emmy-nominated television films (“Judge Horton and the Scottsboro Boys”) to working alongside acclaimed actors like Meryl Streep and Robert Redford, while maintaining steady work across film, television, and voice acting for over four decades.
- Harris’s financial legacy, estimated at $1-2 million, was built through consistent work rather than blockbuster stardom – showcasing how a sustainable acting career can be achieved through regular roles in television series, films, and adaptability to different entertainment mediums.
David Harris, best known for his iconic role as Cochise in the 1979 cult classic “The Warriors,” built a respectable career in the entertainment industry spanning over four decades.
While his exact net worth remains private, it is estimated to be between $1-2 million at the time of his passing in 2024.
Harris’s financial journey began with his breakout role in the 1976 Emmy-nominated TV film “Judge Horton and the Scottsboro Boys.”
His career gained significant momentum after starring in “The Warriors,” which opened doors to numerous opportunities in both television and film.
Throughout his career, Harris maintained a steady stream of income through diverse acting roles.
His filmography includes notable movies like “Brubaker” (1980) alongside Robert Redford, “Purple Hearts” (1984), and “Fatal Beauty” (1987).
His television work proved particularly lucrative, with recurring roles in popular series such as “NYPD Blue,” where he appeared in 16 episodes, and guest appearances in shows like “MacGyver,” “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” and “Elementary.”
The longevity of “The Warriors‘” success contributed significantly to Harris’s financial stability.
The film’s cult status led to various revenue streams, including his voice work in The Warriors video game in 2005.
His involvement in the gaming industry added another dimension to his income sources.
Harris demonstrated financial acumen by maintaining consistent work in the industry, taking on roles in various productions ranging from short films to television series.
His versatility as an actor, often portraying police officers and military personnel, helped him secure regular acting opportunities throughout his career.
Beyond his acting income, Harris likely earned additional revenue through appearances at conventions and fan events, where “The Warriors” maintained a dedicated following.
The film’s enduring popularity, evidenced by its inclusion in The New York Times’ list of 1,000 best films and recent cultural recognition through Lin-Manuel Miranda’s concept album, suggests ongoing residual payments contributed to his net worth.
Harris’s career serves as a testament to the financial sustainability possible through consistent work in the entertainment industry, even without achieving A-list celebrity status.
His ability to adapt to various roles and mediums, from stage to screen to video games, helped build and maintain his estimated million-dollar net worth over his 48-year career in show business.