Tom Everett Scott Biography, Age, Net Worth & Career
Meta Description
Tom Everett Scott is an American actor known for That Thing You Do!, La La Land, Southland, and The Summer I Turned Pretty. Explore his early life, career highlights, personal journey, and estimated net worth in 2025.
About Tom Everett Scott
Tom Everett Scott (born September 7, 1970) is a versatile American actor who has worked across film, television, and theater. He first gained major attention as Guy Patterson, the drummer in That Thing You Do!, and has gone on to star in both dramas and comedies. His performance range and steady career have made him a respected name in Hollywood.
Early Life & Background
- Full Name: Thomas Everett Scott
- Date of Birth: September 7, 1970
- Birthplace: East Bridgewater, Massachusetts, USA
- Parents: Cynthia (insurance sales rep) and William Joseph Scott (civil engineer)
- Education: Studied Communications at Syracuse University, later switched to Drama and graduated in 1992
Tom grew up in a modest, close-knit household. Early on, he discovered his love for performance and theater. While in college, he founded a small theater company with friends, which fueled his passion for acting and set the stage for his career.
Career Journey & Breakthrough
Early Roles & Entry into Acting
After college, Tom moved to New York City, worked odd jobs, and pursued auditions. His acting career began with guest appearances on TV shows and minor film roles.
Breakthrough — That Thing You Do! (1996)
Tom’s breakout role came when he starred as Guy Patterson in the Tom Hanks-directed film That Thing You Do!. His portrayal of the enthusiastic, slightly naïve drummer won him wide praise and made him a household name.
Film & Television Highlights
- An American Werewolf in Paris — Lead role, showcasing his dramatic chops.
- Dead Man on Campus — Cult comedy role.
- Boiler Room — Ensemble cast in a high-stakes financial drama.
- La La Land — Played David, adding him to a critically acclaimed, Oscar-winning musical.
- Clouds and Finding You — More recent film work that shows his continuing relevance.
On television, Tom has had notable roles in:
- Southland — Detective Russell Clarke
- ER — Recurring role as Eric Wyczenski
- Z Nation — Played Garnett
- Scream — Played Kevin Duval
- 13 Reasons Why, Reign, I’m Sorry — Various recurring and main parts
- The Summer I Turned Pretty — Role as Adam Fisher (2022–present)
Personal Life
- Spouse: Jenni Gallagher (married December 13, 1997)
- Children: Two kids
- Personality: Down-to-earth, witty, and creative
- Interests: Theater (still passionate), writing, and occasional production work
Tom values family life and has managed to sustain a long-term marriage while maintaining a busy acting career.
Net Worth & Income
- Estimated Net Worth (2025): $3.8 – $4 million (various sources)
- Primary Sources of Income:
- Film acting
- Television roles
- Theater and occasional production
His long and steady career, spanning decades, has allowed him to build a comfortable financial foundation.
Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Height | ~ 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Blue / Green (varies by source) |
| Build | Medium / Athletic |
He has a classic, clean-cut look that has served him well in a wide range of roles.
Filmography & Notable Work
Some of his most significant credits:
- That Thing You Do! — Guy Patterson
- An American Werewolf in Paris
- La La Land — David
- Dead Man on Campus
- Boiler Room
- Clouds
- TV: Southland, ER, Scream, 13 Reasons Why, The Summer I Turned Pretty
Interesting Facts & Trivia
- While at Syracuse University, Tom switched his major from communications to drama after realizing his real passion was on stage.
- He co-founded a theater company (“aTheaterco”) with college friends in New York.
- He once competed in the World Poker Tour and did surprisingly well.
- Tom has played both “good guy” and darker characters, showing strong versatility.
- He’s often praised for bringing sincerity and realness to both comedic and dramatic parts.
People Also Ask
Q1: Who is Tom Everett Scott?
Tom Everett Scott is an American actor known for That Thing You Do!, La La Land, and TV roles like Southland and The Summer I Turned Pretty.
Q2: How old is Tom Everett Scott?
Born on September 7, 1970, he is 55 years old in 2025.
Q3: What is his net worth?
Estimated around $3.8–$4 million.
Q4: Who is he married to?
He is married to Jenni Gallagher since 1997.
Q5: What was his breakout role?
His breakout was as Guy Patterson, the drummer, in That Thing You Do!.
Final Thoughts
Tom Everett Scott is a reliable and compelling actor whose career has spanned more than three decades. From drummers to detectives, from heartfelt dramas to musical features he’s done it all. His steady presence, grounded performances, and creative spirit make him a respected name in Hollywood and beyond.

