Key Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dale Russell Gudegast |
| Birth Date | November 17, 1941 |
| Birth Place | Bakersfield, California, USA |
| Spouse | Eric Braeden (married 1966) |
| Children | Christian Gudegast |
| Sister | Sigrid Valdis |
| Acting Credit | Holiday in the Sun (2001) |
| Mansion Value | $4.5 million |
| Family Net Worth | $20–25 million |
| Personal Net Worth | $100,000–$800,000 |
Early Life and Background
Dale Russell Gudegast was born in Bakersfield, California, on November 17, 1941, into a family already connected to show business. She completed private elementary and high school education in California but opted not to pursue formal studies beyond that. Her upbringing was enriched by her sister, Sigrid Valdis, whose acting career on Hogan’s Heroes exposed Dale to the entertainment world from an early age.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | November 17, 1941 |
| Birthplace | Bakersfield, California |
| Education | Private elementary & high school |
| Influences | Sister Sigrid Valdis |
Acting Career
Dale’s on-screen experience is concise yet notable: she appeared as a chauffeur in the Olsen twins’ vehicle comedy Holiday in the Sun (2001). Though this remains her sole acting credit, it demonstrates her willingness to step in front of the camera. Rather than pursue further roles, she chose to focus on family life and future writing projects.
| Film | Role | Year | Director |
|---|---|---|---|
| Holiday in the Sun | Chauffeur | 2001 | Steve Purcell |
Writing Endeavors
Dale has written about her life recently. A memoir about five decades of marriage, Hollywood tales, and private life in public is hers. This book will reveal the couple’s relationship and the entertainment industry.
| Project Type | Topic | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Memoir | Marriage to Eric Braeden | In progress |
| Themes | Hollywood life, family reflections | Planned |
Family and Personal Life
Dale married Eric Braeden on October 8, 1966, starting one of Hollywood’s longest marriages. Christian Gudegast (b. February 9, 1970), the couple’s only child, studied film at UCLA and is a successful writer–director. Dale’s sister Sigrid Valdis’ television career is also remembered by the family.
| Relationship | Name | Born | Notable Work |
|---|---|---|---|
| Husband | Eric Braeden | April 3, 1941 | The Young and the Restless |
| Son | Christian Gudegast | February 9, 1970 | Den of Thieves |
| Sister | Sigrid Valdis (†2007) | September 1, 1935 | Hogan’s Heroes |
Financial Standing
The wealth of the Gudegast family is primarily based on Eric Braeden’s acting career, which is estimated to be worth $20-25 million. Based on their decades-long success, their Los Angeles estate is worth approximately $4.5 million. Individual net worth for Dale is uncertain, estimated between $100,000 and $800,000, including shared assets and residuals.
| Asset | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Eric Braeden Net Worth | $20–25 million |
| Dale’s Net Worth | $100,000–$800,000 |
| LA Mansion | $4.5 million |
| Christian’s Earnings | Significant; undisclosed |
Legacy and Influence
Though not famous, Dale’s family’s success reflects her impact. Her memoir will enrich the story of one of television’s most lasting couples. She offers unique insight into life with a daytime-television icon by blending personal reflection and industry stories.
| Aspect | Impact |
|---|---|
| Family Cohesion | Model of long-term Hollywood marriage |
| Memoir | Anticipated source of industry insights |
| Cultural Footprint | Tied to landmark shows & major films |
FAQ
Who is Dale Russell Gudegast?
Dale Russell Gudegast is an American figure known primarily as the wife of actor Eric Braeden and for her single acting role in Holiday in the Sun (2001).
What acting roles has she held?
Her sole credited performance was as a chauffeur in the 2001 film Holiday in the Sun.
Who is Eric Braeden?
Eric Braeden, born Hans-Jörg Gudegast, is a German-American actor famed for portraying Victor Newman on The Young and the Restless since 1980.
What is her forthcoming book about?
She is preparing a memoir about her 50-year marriage and Hollywood life.
What is Dale’s personal net worth?
Dale’s net worth is estimated between $100,000 and $800,000, based on public reports.
