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Who is David Ellison?
David Ellison, the dynamic CEO of Skydance Media, is a prominent figure in Hollywood known for his remarkable achievements in film and television. Born on January 9, 1983, he is currently 42 years old. He has carved out a significant niche in the entertainment industry by producing blockbuster hits like “Top Gun: Maverick” and the “Mission: Impossible” series.
With a height of 6 feet 1 inch, Ellison combines a commanding presence with a sharp business acumen, leading his company to substantial success. As of 2025, his estimated net worth stands at an impressive $500 million, reflecting his relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation in filmmaking. This comprehensive article explores David Ellison’s net worth, age, height, religion, spouse, children, Hollywood career, and the empire he built with Skydance Media.
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | David Ellison |
| Date of Birth | January 9, 1983 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 42 years |
| Height | 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters) |
| Weight | Approximately 175 lbs (79 kg) |
| Religion | Christian |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Film Producer, CEO & Founder of Skydance Media |
| David Ellison’s Net Worth | $500 million USD |
| Spouse | Sandra Lynn Modic Ellison |
| Children | Two |
| Known For | Founding Skydance Media and producing blockbuster films |
| Major Hollywood Projects | Top Gun: Maverick, Mission: Impossible series, Jack Reacher, Terminator: Genisys, Star Trek Into Darkness |
| Company | Skydance Media (founded in 2010) |
| Education | University of Southern California (USC) – School of Cinematic Arts |
| Build & Appearance | Fit, athletic build; brown hair, hazel eyes; known for composed and professional demeanor |
| Distinctive Traits | Sharp jawline, polished appearance, and preference for understated elegance |
| Lifestyle | Balanced, disciplined, and private; enjoys aviation, fitness, and tech innovation |
| Faith & Philosophy | Guided by Christian values emphasizing humility, gratitude, and integrity |
| Notable Family | Son of Larry Ellison (Oracle co-founder) and brother to Megan Ellison (Annapurna Pictures founder) |
Early Life and Background
David Ellison was born on January 9, 1983, in Santa Clara County, California, USA, into one of the most influential families in American business. He is the son of Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle Corporation, one of the largest software companies in the world, and Barbara Boothe, a former Oracle employee.
Growing up in a family where innovation and ambition were the norm, Ellison developed a passion not for technology but for aviation and film. His early fascination with flying would later earn him a pilot’s license, while his creative drive pushed him toward storytelling and cinematic production. Despite being the heir to one of the wealthiest men in the world, David carved out his own identity in Hollywood, determined to make a name for himself through talent and hard work rather than inheritance.
Education and Early Interests
Early Education at Harvard-Westlake
Ellison attended the Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles, a prestigious institution known for producing many of Hollywood’s brightest talents. This education provided him with a strong foundation and exposure to the entertainment industry from an early age.
Pursuing Film at USC
After completing high school, he went on to study at the University of Southern California’s (USC) School of Cinematic Arts, one of the most prestigious film schools in the world. This choice marked a significant step in his journey toward a career in filmmaking.
Developing Skills and Knowledge
While at USC, Ellison honed his filmmaking and production skills, studying under some of the industry’s leading professors. He collaborated with aspiring writers and directors, which enriched his understanding of the creative process.
David Ellison’s Net Worth and Financial Growth
David Ellison’s net worth is estimated at $500 million, a result of over a decade of success in film and television production. He is among the wealthiest film producers in Hollywood, known for backing some of the most profitable franchises of the last decade.
Key Highlights of His Financial Empire
- Estimated Net Worth (2025): $500 million
- Primary Source of Income: Film & television production through Skydance Media
- Other Sources: Investment in gaming, animation, and streaming platforms
- Major Collaborations: Paramount Pictures, Netflix, Apple TV+, Amazon Studios
- Assets: Real estate holdings in California, private jet ownership, and multiple company shares
Ellison’s wealth is self-made, mainly, despite being the son of a billionaire. His net worth reflects Skydance Media’s financial success, as the company consistently produces blockbusters that dominate box offices and streaming platforms alike.
Earnings Breakdown
| Source of Income | Approximate Value (USD) | Details |
| Skydance Media (Film Production) | $350 million | Profits from global box office hits and franchise deals |
| Television Production & Streaming Deals | $75 million | Collaborations with Netflix, Apple TV+, and Amazon Prime |
| Gaming & Animation Divisions | $25 million | Includes Skydance Interactive and Skydance Animation |
| Investments & Partnerships | $30 million | Technology investments, brand sponsorships, and equity holdings |
| Real Estate & Assets | $20 million | Luxury homes in California and aviation assets |
| Estimated Total Net Worth (2025) | $500 million | Combined value from all income and assets |
The Rise of Skydance Media
Founded in 2010, Skydance Media began as a co-financing company with Paramount Pictures, helping to produce big-budget action films. Over time, it evolved into a multimedia powerhouse, creating not only movies but also television shows, video games, and animation projects.
Under Ellison’s leadership, Skydance became synonymous with high-quality entertainment that balances storytelling with commercial appeal.
Major Films Produced by Skydance Media
- Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)
- Star Trek Into Darkness (2013)
- Jack Reacher (2012)
- Terminator: Genisys (2015)
- Geostorm (2017)
- Top Gun: Maverick (2022) – grossed over $1.4 billion worldwide
- Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)
These films not only established Skydance as a reliable partner for major studios but also elevated Ellison’s reputation as a leading Hollywood producer.
Expansion Beyond Film
Ellison has also successfully expanded Skydance into other entertainment sectors:
- Skydance Television: Produced acclaimed shows like Grace and Frankie and Jack Ryan.
- Skydance Animation: Partnered with John Lasseter (former Pixar head) to create animated films.
- Skydance Interactive: Developed virtual reality games and action-based gaming experiences.
Each division adds to the company’s overall valuation and contributes significantly to David Ellison’s net worth.
Age, Height, and Physical Profile
At 42 years old, David Ellison is known for his polished yet athletic appearance. A licensed pilot and fitness enthusiast, he maintains a disciplined lifestyle that mirrors his business ethics.
Physical Profile
| Attribute | Details |
| Age (2025) | 42 years |
| Date of Birth | January 9, 1983 |
| Height | 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters) |
| Weight | Approximately 175 lbs (79 kg) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Hazel |
| Build | Fit and Athletic |
| Distinctive Traits | Professional appearance, composed demeanor, sharp jawline |
Personal Life: Spouse and Children
David Ellison married Sandra Lynn Modic, an actress and model, in 2011. The couple has maintained a relatively private relationship compared to other Hollywood elites. Sandra has occasionally accompanied Ellison to red carpet events and premieres but prefers to stay out of the media spotlight.
Together, they have two children, whose names they keep private to protect their family’s privacy. Despite his wealth and fame, Ellison is known for being a devoted husband and father, balancing his demanding career with family time.
Faith and Religion
David Ellison has often spoken about his faith and moral grounding as guiding principles in his career. He identifies as a Christian and has stated that his religious beliefs influence how he approaches leadership and business ethics. While he doesn’t promote his faith publicly, close associates note that his decisions, from philanthropy to company culture, are deeply rooted in humility, respect, and gratitude.
Hollywood Legacy and Influence
David Ellison’s rise in the entertainment world represents the merging of business strategy with creative passion. His ability to bridge traditional cinema with modern technology has reshaped how blockbuster films are financed and distributed.
Achievements & Highlights
- Founder and CEO of Skydance Media
- Produced multiple billion-dollar franchises
- Named on Variety’s Power of Hollywood Producers List
- Partnered with Apple TV+ and Netflix for global releases
- Pioneered film financing models that maximize profits and minimize studio risks
Ellison’s leadership has made Skydance one of the most trusted partners in global entertainment, rivaling companies like Legendary and Blumhouse in influence.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Beyond business, Ellison has been involved in several philanthropic efforts, focusing on:
- Veteran Support Programs: Donating to charities that aid U.S. veterans and military families.
- Education and the Arts: Supporting film education programs at USC and scholarships for young creators.
- Environmental Causes: Promoting sustainable film production practices.
His approach to giving reflects his belief that success is only meaningful when it benefits others.
Lifestyle and Hobbies
Despite his immense wealth, David Ellison is not known for extravagant spending. Instead, he maintains a balanced and disciplined lifestyle, reflecting both his ambition and grounded nature. A licensed pilot, Ellison often enjoys aviation as a recreational pursuit, frequently flying for leisure and maintaining his passion for the skies.
His commitment to fitness is equally evident; he keeps himself in top physical condition through regular running, swimming, and weight training. When it comes to travel, Ellison divides his time between Los Angeles and various global production hubs, balancing business with exploration.
Lessons from David Ellison’s Success
David Ellison’s journey from privileged beginnings to self-made success holds valuable lessons:
- Vision Over Inheritance: He leveraged his resources to create rather than depend on them.
- Adapt to Change: By embracing streaming, gaming, and new tech, he future-proofed his business.
- Leadership Through Values: Faith and ethics play a central role in his decisions.
- Invest in People: His teams at Skydance are known for collaboration and respect.
- Stay Grounded: Despite millions, he leads with humility and focus.
Conclusion
At 42 years old, with an estimated net worth of $500 million, David Ellison stands as one of the most influential figures in contemporary Hollywood. As CEO of Skydance Media, he continues to push boundaries, producing stories that blend emotional depth with commercial success. From Mission: Impossible to Top Gun: Maverick, his productions have redefined blockbuster filmmaking while maintaining integrity and artistic quality.
Beyond the lights and fame, Ellison’s life reflects a rare balance of wealth, faith, and family, a testament to what’s possible when ambition meets authenticity. His story is more than that of a rich producer; it’s about vision, resilience, and purpose.
David Ellison’s Net Worth of $500 million is not just a figure; it’s the result of passion-driven leadership, disciplined decision-making, and a lifelong commitment to excellence.
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FAQs
David Ellison is a Christian. He has spoken about his faith as a guiding force in his personal and professional life, emphasizing values such as humility, gratitude, and integrity.
David Ellison is married to Sandra Lynn Modic Ellison, an actress and model. The couple married in 2011 and lead a relatively private life compared to other Hollywood power couples.
Yes. David Ellison and his wife, Sandra Modic Ellison, have two children, though they maintain their family’s privacy and do not often appear in public media.
David Ellison is the founder and CEO of Skydance Media, a leading film, television, and gaming studio. The company has partnerships with Paramount Pictures, Netflix, Apple TV+, and Amazon Studios.
