Alan Hamel might not be a global household name like his late wife Suzanne Somers, but in Canada and among fans of vintage TV, he’s long been a symbol of what steady talent, business smarts, and loyal partnerships can build. At 89 years old in 2025, Hamel’s estimated net worth sits at an impressive $100 million—a fortune earned through decades of creative work, smart investments, and a shared vision with the woman he loved.
A Toronto Kid With Big Dreams
Alan Hamel was born on June 30, 1936, in Toronto, Ontario. His parents encouraged his early curiosity, and by the time he enrolled at Ryerson University, he knew exactly what he wanted to do: entertain. He studied Radio and Television Arts, setting the stage for a career that would soon make him a staple in Canadian living rooms.
Breaking Out With ‘Razzle Dazzle’
Hamel’s first big break came in the early 1960s. From 1961 to 1964, he hosted Razzle Dazzle, a children’s TV show that charmed families across Canada. His warm energy and natural way with audiences made him a hit with both kids and parents. Razzle Dazzle laid the groundwork for a reputation that would open doors on both sides of the border.
Taking On American TV
By the late 1960s, Alan’s popularity at home led him south. He landed hosting gigs on American TV, including Wedding Party and Anniversary Game on ABC. These shows not only showcased his easygoing charm but also changed his life in a much bigger way—while working on Anniversary Game, Alan met a young actress named Suzanne Somers.
The two connected instantly, both professionally and romantically. What began as an on-set spark turned into a lifelong partnership that reshaped both of their careers.
Becoming A Household Name
In the 1970s, Alan launched The Alan Hamel Show on CTV. This daytime talk and variety show featured celebrity chats, musical guests, and sketches. The show quickly became a fan favorite, making Hamel one of Canada’s top TV personalities of the time. While hosting, he honed skills that would later help him build a behind-the-scenes empire.
The Business Brain Behind Suzanne Somers
While Alan’s on-screen work was winning over audiences, he began to see the bigger picture. Suzanne Somers was taking off in Three’s Company, and Alan realized they could turn her growing fame into more than just TV ratings.
He gradually stepped away from hosting and took charge of managing and expanding Suzanne’s brand. Together, they crafted a multimedia empire that went far beyond sitcoms. Books, talk shows, endorsements—nothing was off-limits.
The ThighMaster Phenomenon
One of Alan Hamel’s smartest moves was helping launch the ThighMaster in the early 1990s. The simple workout tool turned into a cultural craze, selling over 10 million units. At first, they partnered with distributors, but once they saw the sales potential, Alan and Suzanne bought out their partners and took full control. That single product pumped millions into their net worth and showed how good they were at spotting trends.
Real Estate Moves That Paid Off
Alan and Suzanne didn’t just invest in gadgets and books—they built an impressive real estate portfolio too. Their main residence for years was a sprawling 73-acre Palm Springs estate. The property, with its unique design and funiculars connecting guest houses, was originally listed at $35 million in 2008. They later sold part of it for $8.5 million in 2021 as they downsized.
They were generous too. In 2018, they donated a massive 480-acre parcel in northern Palm Springs to the Coachella Valley Conservation Commission, ensuring the land stayed protected.
In Malibu, they made another smart move. They bought oceanfront properties that later sold for $12 million in 2016. These deals showed Alan’s skill at turning lifestyle choices into valuable investments.
Family And Life Beyond The Camera
While Alan Hamel and Suzanne Somers didn’t have children together, their blended family remained tight. Alan has two children from a previous marriage—Stephen and Leslie—while Suzanne had a son, Bruce Somers Jr. The couple’s family gatherings were often filled with stories about business, showbiz, and their many adventures together.
Sadly, Suzanne passed away in October 2023, one day shy of her 77th birthday. For Alan, her loss wasn’t just the end of a marriage but the loss of his closest business partner and best friend. Despite the grief, Alan stayed active and surrounded by family.
In mid-2025, Alan, now 89, confirmed he’d found companionship again with actress Joanna Cassidy. The two knew each other from the days of The Alan Hamel Show and reconnected through family ties. Their bond shows that even after great loss, life has ways of surprising us.
A Quiet Giant Of Showbiz
Alan Hamel’s $100 million net worth didn’t come from overnight stardom. It’s the result of a career that balanced charisma on camera with shrewd moves behind the scenes. His story proves that you don’t need to be the loudest name in Hollywood to build real wealth and influence.
Today, Alan remains a respected figure in the industry—a reminder that true success often lies in what happens away from the spotlight. His legacy is one of steady talent, family loyalty, and an eye for opportunities that others might overlook.
At 89, with his family close and new chapters unfolding, Alan Hamel’s story isn’t just about what he’s earned—it’s about the love, creativity, and smart risks that built a fortune and a name worth remembering.