Steve Guttenberg Biography, Age, Wife, Career, Personal Life, and Achievements

Steve Guttenberg is an American actor, author, businessman, producer, and director, renowned for his roles in popular films during the 1980s and 1990s.

Full NameSteven Robert Guttenberg
Date of BirthAugust 24, 1958
Age66 years (as of 2025)
Place of BirthBrooklyn, New York, USA
NationalityAmerican
ProfessionActor, Author, Producer, Director, Businessman
Years Active1977–present
Notable FilmsPolice Academy, Cocoon, Short Circuit, Three Men and a Baby
Spouse(s)– Denise Bixler (m. 1988; div. 1992)
– Emily Smith (m. 2019–present)
Education– Plainedge High School (Graduated in 1976)
– Acting studies in New York and Los Angeles
Parents– Ann Newman (Mother)
– Stanley Guttenberg (Father)
ReligionJewish
Net WorthApprox. $15 million (as of 2025)
PhilanthropyAdvocate for children, homelessness, and animal rights
Awards– Tony Randall Lifetime Achievement Award (2008)
– Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame (2011)
Books AuthoredThe Guttenberg Bible (2012)
The Kids from D.I.S.C.O. (2014)

Early Life and Education

Born on August 24, 1958, in Brooklyn, New York, to Ann Newman and Stanley Guttenberg, Steve was raised in a Jewish family. He spent his early years in Brooklyn before moving to Queens and later to North Massapequa, Long Island. He graduated from Plainedge High School in 1976 and pursued acting studies both on Long Island and in New York City. Subsequently, he relocated to Los Angeles to further his film career.

Career

Guttenberg’s acting career commenced in the late 1970s, with his film debut as an extra in “Rollercoaster” (1977). He gained prominence in the 1980s with leading roles in several box office hits, including:

  • “Police Academy” (1984): Portrayed Carey Mahoney, a charming troublemaker who becomes a police officer.
  • “Cocoon” (1985): Played Jack Bonner, a boat operator who aids a group of elderly individuals rejuvenated by extraterrestrial forces.
  • “Short Circuit” (1986): Featured as Newton Crosby, a scientist who befriends a sentient robot.
  • “Three Men and a Baby” (1987): Starred as Michael Kellam, one of three bachelors caring for an infant left at their doorstep.

Throughout his career, Guttenberg has showcased versatility, appearing in comedies, dramas, and thrillers. His work extends beyond acting to include producing and directing.

Personal Life

Guttenberg married model Denise Bixler on September 30, 1988. The couple separated in June 1991 and divorced in 1992. In 2014, he began a relationship with WCBS-TV reporter Emily Smith. They became engaged on Christmas Day 2016 and married on January 19, 2019.

Philanthropy

Guttenberg is actively involved in charitable endeavors, particularly those aimed at improving opportunities for the homeless and youth. In 2016, a trust was established in his honor to provide support services to the homeless population of Los Angeles. Additionally, the Entertainment Industry Foundation appointed him as Ambassador for Children’s Issues, recognizing his advocacy for children and the homeless.

Recent Activities

In January 2025, Guttenberg volunteered to assist first responders during the devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area. He emphasized the importance of community support during crises, stating, “This is the time for us to remember that we’re part of a community… If you see somebody who needs help, help them.”

Awards and Recognition

Guttenberg’s contributions to the entertainment industry and community service have been acknowledged through various honors:

  • Tony Randall Lifetime Achievement Award (2008): Presented at the Fire Island Golden Wagon Film Festival for his work in entertainment and community service.
  • Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (2011): Received a star recognizing his achievements in film and television.
  • Key to the City of Miami Beach (2014): Awarded for his efforts in raising awareness for animal rights.

Selected Filmography

Here are some notable films featuring Steve Guttenberg:

Police Academy
A 1984 comedy where Guttenberg plays Carey Mahoney, a troublemaker who joins the police force.

Police Academy (1984) - Posters — The Movie Database (TMDB)

Cocoon
A 1985 science fiction film featuring Guttenberg as Jack Bonner, who discovers a group of seniors rejuvenated by alien forces.

Cocoon : Extra Large Movie Poster Image - IMP Awards

Short Circuit
In this 1986 sci-fi comedy, Guttenberg portrays Newton Crosby, a scientist who befriends a sentient robot.

Short Circuit (1986) - Posters — The Movie Database (TMDB)

Three Men and a Baby
A 1987 comedy where Guttenberg stars as Michael Kellam, one of three bachelors caring for an unexpected infant.

Three Men and a Baby 1987 Movie Poster STICKER Die-Cut Vinyl | Etsy

Diner
A 1982 coming-of-age film with Guttenberg as Eddie Simmons, exploring the lives of childhood friends in 1959 Baltimore.

Diner 1982 Original 30x40 Movie Poster - Etsy in 2022 | Diner movie, Mickey rourke, Movie posters

Bibliography

In addition to his acting career, Guttenberg has authored books, including:

  • “The Guttenberg Bible” (2012): A memoir detailing his experiences in Hollywood.
  • “The Kids from D.I.S.C.O.” (2014): A novel aimed at young readers.

Steve Guttenberg’s enduring presence in the entertainment industry, coupled with his philanthropic efforts, underscores his multifaceted contributions to both the arts and society.