When you hear the name Cheech Marin, chances are you think of the legendary comedy duo Cheech & Chong, or maybe his iconic voice in Disney’s Cars movies. But did you know that as of 2025, Cheech Marin’s net worth is estimated at $30 million? At age 78, this multi-talented performer continues to stay relevant across comedy, acting, voice work, and even business. So, how did he make his millions, and what’s he up to these days? Let’s break it all down.
How Did Cheech Marin Rise to Fame with Cheech & Chong?
Cheech Marin’s journey to stardom began in the late ’60s when he met Tommy Chong in Vancouver. They started performing together in an improv group, but their chemistry was undeniable and soon evolved into the cultural phenomenon Cheech & Chong.
Their debut album in 1971 kicked things off, but it was the 1978 stoner comedy Up in Smoke that shot them into the mainstream. The movie made over $44 million at the time, which is about $150 million today when adjusted for inflation. Throughout the 1970s and early ’80s, the duo released 11 albums and starred in several comedy films that helped them earn both cult status and major paychecks.
They parted ways in 1985 but later reunited for tours and projects like Cheech & Chong’s Animated Movie! in 2013. Their on-screen synergy remains iconic and continues to contribute to Cheech’s long-lasting legacy (and earnings).
What Roles Expanded Cheech Marin’s Career Beyond Comedy?
After the Cheech & Chong split, Marin didn’t slow down—he just switched gears. He wrote, directed, and starred in Born in East L.A. (1987), a project that proved he could shine solo. He also showed his range in films like Tin Cup, From Dusk Till Dawn, and Once Upon a Time in Mexico.
TV fans may remember him as Inspector Joe Dominguez on Nash Bridges (1996–2001), a role that earned him award nominations and boosted his profile beyond comedy circles. In animation, his voice brought lovable characters to life in movies like Oliver & Company, The Lion King (as Banzai the hyena), and Cars, where he played the fan-favorite Ramone.
And let’s not forget Spy Kids! Marin played Uncle Felix across three films in the early 2000s, adding yet another hit franchise to his résumé.
What Are Cheech Marin’s Sources of Income Today?
Cheech isn’t just an actor and comedian—he’s also a businessman and artist. One of his modern ventures is Cheech’s Stash, a cannabis and CBD company selling tinctures and wellness products. With legalization growing across the U.S., this business is positioned well for growth and keeps his income diversified.
In addition, his voice acting, guest appearances, and occasional movie roles continue to provide a steady income stream. Plus, his children’s books and albums—like Cheech the School Bus Driver—have remained popular among parents looking for bilingual content.
How Does Cheech Marin Support Chicano Art and Culture?
Cheech Marin is also one of the most prominent advocates for Chicano art in America. He began collecting art decades ago and now owns over 700 pieces, including works by Diego Rivera and Ed Ruscha.
In 2022, the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture officially opened in Riverside, California. The museum celebrates Latinx artists and has positioned Cheech as a cultural ambassador, not just a celebrity. His commitment to preserving Chicano heritage through art adds another layer to his incredible legacy.
What Do We Know About Cheech Marin’s Personal Life?
Born Richard Anthony Marin on July 13, 1946, in South Los Angeles, Cheech grew up in a Mexican-American household. He dodged the Vietnam War draft by moving to Canada, where he eventually met Tommy Chong.
Cheech has been married three times. He has three children—one with his first wife, Darlene Morley, and two with his second wife, Patti Heid. Since 2009, he has been married to classical pianist Natasha Rubin.
Despite undergoing two knee replacement surgeries, Marin has maintained a positive lifestyle, even crediting cannabis products for helping him through post-surgery recovery. He’s also appeared on Celebrity Jeopardy (he won!), Rachael vs. Guy: Celebrity Cook-Off, and continues to make guest appearances on screen.
Does Cheech Marin Own Any Real Estate?
Cheech’s real estate history reflects his success. During his second marriage, he and Patti Heid bought four adjoining Malibu properties, creating a multimillion-dollar compound. Though they divorced in 2009 and divided the properties, Cheech later sold one for $6 million in 2010 and currently owns a separate home in Malibu.
What Awards Has Cheech Marin Won?
Cheech Marin has collected plenty of accolades over the years. He and Chong won a Grammy Award for Los Cochinos in 1974. Marin also took home awards from the Havana Film Festival for Born in East L.A., and he’s earned recognition from the ALMA Awards, Imagen Foundation, and the Oregon Independent Film Festival.
Even as he enters his late 70s, his career remains active and respected.
