Chris Gardner: Age, Date of Birth & other info
Christopher Paul Gardner, born on February 9, 1954, is an acclaimed entrepreneur, philanthropist, and motivational speaker whose life story epitomizes the triumph of the human spirit. From humble beginnings in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to becoming a global symbol of perseverance, Gardner’s journey has inspired millions, solidified further by his memoir and its Hollywood adaptation, The Pursuit of Happyness.
- Age: 71 Yeas
- Date of Birth: February 9, 1954
- Birth Place: Milwaukee
- Weight: 80 kilograms
- Height: 6 feet 2 inches
- Net Worth: $70 million
Early Life and Childhood
Gardner’s early life was marked by adversity and hardship. Growing up in Milwaukee, he faced numerous challenges, including poverty, domestic violence, and an unstable family environment. His biological father, Thomas Turner, was largely absent from his life, leaving Gardner to be raised by his mother, Bettye Jean Triplett, and his stepfather, Freddie Triplett. Unfortunately, Freddie was abusive, creating a tumultuous household for Gardner and his siblings.Despite these difficulties, Gardner credits his mother as his first source of inspiration. Bettye Jean instilled in him a belief that he could achieve anything he set his mind to, planting the seeds of resilience and ambition that would define his later years. Gardner’s childhood also included periods in foster care, which exposed him to additional challenges but also shaped his tenacity.
Military Service and Early Career
After high school, Gardner was inspired by his uncle Henry’s stories of military service and decided to join the U.S. Navy. He served as a hospital corpsman, working closely with doctors and gaining valuable medical experience. This role would later influence his decision to pursue a career in the medical field.During his time in the Navy, Gardner had the opportunity to work with Dr. Robert Ellis, a renowned cardiac surgeon in San Francisco. Dr. Ellis offered Gardner a job as a research assistant, which he accepted after his honorable discharge in 1974. For several years, Gardner assisted in groundbreaking medical research and co-authored articles published in prestigious journals.
Personal Life and Family Challenges
On June 18, 1977, Gardner married Sherry Dyson, an accomplished educator specializing in mathematics. While their marriage began with promise, Gardner’s decision to abandon his medical career aspirations caused significant strain in their relationship. During this period, he began an affair with Jackie Medina, a dental student, who later became pregnant with his child.This marked a turning point in Gardner’s life. He left Sherry to live with Jackie and prepare for fatherhood. His son, Christopher Jarrett Gardner Jr., was born on January 28, 1981. Despite his efforts to support his new family, Gardner’s financial struggles escalated, leading to his separation from Jackie and the challenges of single parenthood.
Homelessness and the Turning Point
While working as a medical equipment salesman, Gardner experienced a life-changing moment. He encountered a well-dressed man driving a Ferrari, who revealed he was a stockbroker. This meeting ignited Gardner’s interest in finance and set him on a new path.Determined to enter the world of stock brokerage, Gardner applied to training programs despite lacking formal education and experience. He secured a position at Dean Witter Reynolds. However, during this period, Gardner faced homelessness. He and his young son often slept in shelters, parks, and even public restrooms. Despite these challenges, Gardner refused to give up, driven by his commitment to provide a better life for his son.
The Rise of Gardner Rich & Co
In 1987, after completing his training and working as a stockbroker, Gardner founded his own brokerage firm, Gardner Rich & Co, in Chicago. With just $10,000 in startup capital, Gardner built his company from the ground up. He operated the business from a small apartment, using a wooden desk that also served as his dining table.Gardner’s company specialized in handling financial transactions for large institutions, unions, and public pension funds. His keen business acumen, combined with his relentless work ethic, propelled Gardner Rich & Co to significant success. Eventually, Gardner sold his minority stake in the firm for a substantial sum, solidifying his financial independence.
Authorship and The Pursuit of Happyness
In 2006, Gardner shared his remarkable life story in his memoir, The Pursuit of Happyness. The book became a bestseller, resonating with readers worldwide. It chronicled his journey from homelessness to success, highlighting themes of perseverance, fatherhood, and the pursuit of dreams.That same year, his memoir was adapted into a Hollywood film starring Will Smith. The movie, also titled The Pursuit of Happyness, received critical acclaim and brought Gardner’s story to an even broader audience. Will Smith’s portrayal of Gardner earned him an Academy Award nomination, and the film became a box office success.
Philanthropy and Motivational Speaking
Gardner’s success has not only transformed his life but also enabled him to give back to the community. As a philanthropist, he supports various causes, including organizations dedicated to combating homelessness and providing opportunities for underserved populations. Some of the organizations Gardner has supported include the Glide Memorial United Methodist Church in San Francisco, where he once found refuge, and the Cara Program, which helps people transition out of poverty.In addition to his philanthropic efforts, Gardner is a sought-after motivational speaker. He travels the world, sharing his story and encouraging audiences to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. Gardner’s speeches often emphasize the importance of determination, adaptability, and maintaining a positive mindset in the face of adversity.
Net Worth and Achievements
As of 2025, Chris Gardner’s net worth is estimated to be around $70 million. While his financial success is impressive, Gardner often emphasizes that wealth is only a small part of his legacy. He considers his role as a father, his contributions to society, and his ability to inspire others as his greatest achievements.Gardner has received numerous accolades for his work, including honorary degrees and recognition from various organizations. His life story continues to be a beacon of hope for those facing challenges, proving that with hard work and resilience, success is achievable.
Legacy and Ongoing Impact
Chris Gardner’s journey from poverty and homelessness to becoming a successful entrepreneur and motivational speaker is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief. His story has inspired countless individuals worldwide, reminding us that adversity can be a stepping stone to greatness.Through his memoir, the film adaptation, and his continued work as a speaker and philanthropist, Gardner has cemented his legacy as a symbol of hope and determination. His life serves as a reminder that with unwavering commitment to one’s goals, it is possible to overcome even the most daunting obstacles.For more insights into Chris Gardner’s life and current endeavors, you can visit his official website or follow his public appearances. His journey is not just a story of financial success but a profound example of what it means to pursue happiness and make a lasting impact on the world.
