Reginald VelJohnson, renowned for his iconic roles as Carl Winslow in the sitcom Family Matters and Sgt. Al Powell in the Die Hard film series, has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for decades. Given his extensive career, many are curious about his financial standing. As of December 2025, reports indicate that VelJohnson’s net worth is approximately $4 million.
Personal Details
Full Name | Reginald VelJohnson |
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Date of Birth | August 16, 1952 |
Age | 72 years old |
Birthplace | Queens, New York City, USA |
Education | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater from New York University |
Profession | Actor, Screenwriter |
Years Active | 1979–present |
Notable Roles | Carl Winslow in Family Matters, Sgt. Al Powell in Die Hard |
Residence | Oceanside, New York |
Career Highlights

Early Life and Education
Born as Reginald VelJohnson in Queens, New York City, VelJohnson was raised by his mother, Eva, a nurse’s aide, and his father, Dan, a hospital attendant. After his father left the family when Reginald was 13, his mother remarried John Reilly. VelJohnson attended Benjamin N. Cardozo High School and later earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater from New York University. During his time at NYU, he worked with Joseph Papp’s Black/Hispanic Shakespeare Company, sharing the stage with actors like Morgan Freeman and CCH Pounder. Early in his acting career, he modified his name to Reginald VelJohnson to create a more memorable identity.
Breakthrough Roles
Reginald VelJohnson portrayal of Sgt. Al Powell in the 1988 blockbuster Die Hard marked a significant turning point in his career. This role led to his casting as Carl Winslow, a police officer and family patriarch, in the sitcom Family Matters, which aired from 1989 to 1998. Both roles solidified his reputation for portraying law enforcement characters.
Continued Success
Beyond these iconic roles, VelJohnson has made numerous guest appearances in television series such as The Equalizer, Will & Grace, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. He has also lent his voice to characters in animated series, including Principal Winslow in Invincible. In 2021, he reprised his role as David Sutton in Disney’s Turner & Hooch series.
Net Worth Assessment

While some sources may speculate about VelJohnson’s net worth being around $5 million, the most recent and reliable data from December 2025 estimates it at approximately $4 million. This valuation reflects his enduring contributions to film and television over the years.
Final Thought
Reginald VelJohnson’s estimated net worth of $4 million is a testament to his successful and sustained career in the entertainment industry. His memorable performances have left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide, and his financial standing mirrors the dedication and talent he has brought to his craft.