Tommy Chong is one of the most recognizable names in comedy and entertainment, thanks to his pioneering work as half of the duo Cheech & Chong and his unique, laid-back stoner persona. Over the decades, Chong has become more than just a comedian—he’s also an actor, musician, director, cannabis advocate, and pop culture icon. With a career spanning over fifty years, his influence on both comedy and cannabis culture remains unmatched.
This article takes a deep dive into Tommy Chong’s life, covering his net worth, biography, age, movies, TV shows, marriages, relationships, children, and more.
Who Is Tommy Chong?
Thomas B. Kin Chong, better known as Tommy Chong, is a Canadian-American comedian, actor, and musician. He first found fame in the 1970s as one-half of the counterculture comedy duo Cheech & Chong, alongside Cheech Marin. Their satirical takes on hippie culture, drugs, and society became a phenomenon, producing hit comedy albums and box office–smashing films.
Beyond comedy, Chong is widely celebrated for his activism in cannabis legalization. His career wasn’t without controversy—he even served time in prison in 2003 for selling bongs online, an event that only reinforced his cultural reputation as a cannabis advocate.
Tommy Chong’s Age
Tommy Chong was born on May 24, 1938 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. As of 2025, he is 87 years old. Despite his age, he continues to appear in films, television, and media, staying relevant across generations. His longevity in the entertainment industry is a testament to both his enduring charisma and his ability to reinvent himself over the decades.
Tommy Chong’s Net Worth
Tommy Chong’s net worth is estimated at around $20 million.
How He Built His Wealth:
- Comedy albums & tours — His partnership with Cheech Marin in the 1970s produced Grammy-winning albums and sold-out comedy tours.
- Movies — Cheech & Chong films such as Up in Smoke (1978) grossed millions and became cult classics.
- Television — Chong gained new fame as “Leo” in That ’70s Show and reprised the role in That ’90s Show on Netflix.
- Books & Merchandising — Chong has authored books and launched products, particularly cannabis-related ventures.
- Appearances & Reality TV — From Dancing with the Stars to The Masked Singer, Chong has continued to secure income through mainstream exposure.
Chong’s net worth isn’t only from entertainment; his identity as a cannabis entrepreneur has also added to his wealth, especially after legalization waves in the U.S.
Tommy Chong’s Movies
Chong’s filmography includes both Cheech & Chong classics and later solo projects.
Cheech & Chong Era (1970s–1980s):
- Up in Smoke (1978) — Their debut film and one of the most iconic stoner comedies ever made.
- Cheech & Chong’s Next Movie (1980)
- Nice Dreams (1981)
- Still Smokin (1983)
- Cheech & Chong’s The Corsican Brothers (1984)
Later Career:
- Far Out Man (1990) — A solo project written, directed, and starred in by Chong.
- Half Baked (1998) — Cult comedy where Chong played “Squirrel Master.”
- Evil Bong series (2006 onwards) — A campy, cannabis-themed horror-comedy franchise.
- Zootopia (2016) — Voice role as “Yax,” a laid-back yak at a naturalist club.
- Color Out of Space (2019) — A sci-fi horror film starring Nicolas Cage.
Tommy Chong’s TV Shows
While his movies made him a legend, Chong has also appeared in many television shows:
- That ’70s Show (1999–2006) — Played “Leo Chingkwake,” a goofy hippie, becoming a fan favorite.
- That ’90s Show (2023) — Returned as Leo in the Netflix revival, delighting longtime fans.
- Dancing with the Stars (2014) — Reached the semi-finals at age 76 with dance partner Peta Murgatroyd.
- The Masked Singer (2019) — Competed as the “Pineapple,” revealed in Season 1.
- Guest appearances — Including Trapper John, M.D., Sliders, Miami Vice, and voice roles in cartoons.
Chong’s willingness to embrace both scripted roles and reality TV has kept him visible across different audiences.
Tommy Chong’s Relationships & Marriages
Tommy Chong and Maxine Sneed
Chong’s first marriage was to Maxine Sneed in 1960. Together, they raised two daughters—Rae Dawn and Robbi Chong. Their marriage lasted a decade, ending in divorce in 1970.
Tommy Chong Married To Shelby Chong
In 1975, Chong married Shelby Fiddis (Shelby Chong), who is also a comedian, producer, and actress. Shelby frequently collaborated with Tommy in both live performances and on-screen appearances. The couple has remained together for nearly five decades, a rarity in Hollywood.
Their long-lasting marriage is often highlighted as one of the strongest showbiz unions, with Shelby playing a key role in Tommy’s professional projects and family life.
Tommy Chong’s Kids
Tommy Chong has six children from his marriages and relationships:
- Rae Dawn Chong (b. 1961) — Actress known for Commando (1985), The Color Purple (1985), and other roles.
- Robbi Chong (b. 1965) — Model and actress.
- Marcus Chong (adopted) — Actor, known for playing Tank in The Matrix (1999).
- Gilbran Chong — Worked in entertainment.
- Paris Chong — Associated with family projects.
- Precious Chong — Actress, writer, and producer.
The Chong family remains active in entertainment, often collaborating creatively.
Tommy Chong’s Legacy and Cultural Impact
- Comedy Pioneer: Alongside Cheech Marin, Chong broke barriers with counterculture humor in an era when drug-related comedy was taboo.
- Cannabis Activist: He remains one of the loudest celebrity voices advocating for marijuana legalization and medicinal use.
- Pop Culture Figure: From Up in Smoke to That ’70s Show, Chong has influenced comedy, television, and even animation (Zootopia).
- Resilience: Despite legal troubles and health battles, including surviving cancer, Chong continues to work and inspire fans worldwide.
Conclusion
Tommy Chong’s life is a blend of comedy, controversy, resilience, and cultural influence. From his beginnings in Canada to becoming a Hollywood icon, Chong has remained authentic to himself. His work with Cheech Marin defined an era, his solo career expanded his legend, and his continued presence in TV and film proves his lasting relevance.
At 87 years old, Tommy Chong remains proof that humor, creativity, and authenticity never age. His estimated net worth of $20 million reflects decades of success across entertainment and entrepreneurship. Beyond money, however, his biggest legacy is shaping how comedy, cannabis, and counterculture are perceived in mainstream society.
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