Kim Delaney, best known for her role as Detective Diane Russell on NYPD Blue, has built a successful acting career spanning over four decades. As of 2025, Kim Delaney is 63 years old and has an estimated net worth of $4 million. Born on November 29, 1961, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Delaney has earned her fortune through steady work in television and film, as well as accolades like a Primetime Emmy Award.
How Did Kim Delaney Get Her Start in Showbiz?
Delaney’s first steps into the entertainment world began in high school when she started modeling with the Elite agency. Her early success in commercials led her to New York City, where she studied acting under William Esper. That dedication paid off when she landed her television debut in 1981 as Jenny Gardner Nelson on All My Children. Her performance quickly gained attention, earning her a Daytime Emmy nomination before she left the show in 1984.
Which Role Made Her a Household Name?
Without a doubt, her portrayal of Detective Diane Russell on ABC’s hit drama NYPD Blue was a game-changer. Delaney joined the show in 1995 and remained a key figure through 132 episodes until 2003. Her gritty, emotional performance as Diane earned her widespread acclaim, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 1997. The role became the cornerstone of her career and established her as a respected dramatic actress in network television.
What Other Notable Roles Has She Played?
Beyond NYPD Blue, Kim Delaney’s resume includes a range of TV dramas. She starred as Kathleen Maguire in Philly (2001–2002), Megan Donner in CSI: Miami (2002), and had a recurring role as Rebecca Bloom in The O.C. (2005). Another standout part came with Army Wives, where she played Claudia Joy Holden from 2007 to 2012. Her portrayal of a military wife navigating the challenges of base life resonated deeply with viewers and kept her in the public eye for years.
More recently, Delaney returned to daytime television with a role in General Hospital (2020–2021), portraying Jackie Templeton—a character originally played by Demi Moore. Her performance earned her another Daytime Emmy nomination in 2021. She also starred in the 2021 TV movie The Long Island Serial Killer: A Mother’s Hunt for Justice.
What Challenges Has She Faced in Her Personal Life?
Like many in the spotlight, Delaney has faced her share of personal struggles. In 2002, she was arrested for drunk driving and later pled no contest. The most difficult chapter came in 2005 when she lost custody of her then-15-year-old son, Jack Cortese, following a court testimony where he expressed concern over her drinking. Following the incident, Delaney entered rehab at Promises in Malibu and began working on her recovery.
Despite the hardship, their relationship has since healed. By 2021, reports indicated that Kim and Jack had rekindled their bond and spent time together during holidays and special occasions.
Who Has Kim Delaney Been Married To?
Delaney’s personal life has included a few high-profile relationships. She was first married to actor Charles Grant from 1984 to 1988. She later wed American History X actor Joe Cortese in 1989. They had a son, Jack, in 1990, but the marriage ended in 1994. In 1997, she became engaged to producer Alan Barnette, though the couple never married and parted ways in 2006. Since then, Delaney has chosen to keep her romantic life private.
How Did Her Early Life Influence Her Career?
Growing up in Roxborough, a neighborhood in Philadelphia, Delaney was raised in a large, working-class Irish Catholic family. Her father, Jack Delaney, was a United Auto Workers committeeman at Delphi Automotive. She was one of five children, with two older brothers (Ed and John) and two younger ones (Keith and Patrick).
This grounded upbringing instilled in her a strong work ethic. Her leap into modeling and then acting wasn’t by accident—it came from years of hustle, auditions, and dedication to craft, especially during her early years in New York City.
Is Kim Delaney Still Active in the Industry?
Yes, Delaney continues to work in television and remains a respected name in the industry. Her recent return to General Hospital and appearance in TV films shows that she’s not stepping away from the spotlight any time soon. With decades of experience, an Emmy under her belt, and a loyal fanbase, Kim Delaney remains a resilient and enduring presence in Hollywood.
