Patrick Dempsey is an American actor and professional race car driver best known for his role as Dr. Derek “McDreamy” Shepherd on the hit medical drama Grey’s Anatomy. With a career spanning more than four decades, Dempsey has evolved from a 1980s teen film star into one of television’s most recognizable leading men. Beyond acting, he is also known for his involvement in motorsports and his philanthropic work supporting cancer patients. Let’s take a closer look at Patrick Dempsey’s bio, age, height, career, family, wife, children, net worth, and more.
Quick Bio
- Full Name: Patrick Galen Dempsey
- Date of Birth: January 13, 1966
- Age: 60 years (as of 2026)
- Birthplace: Lewiston, Maine, USA
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: White
- Profession: Actor, Producer, Race Car Driver
- Years Active: 1985 – present
Early Life, Family & Education
Patrick Dempsey was born in Lewiston, Maine, and raised in Turner, Maine. He grew up in a close-knit family and developed an interest in performance at an early age. Before acting became his primary focus, he was passionate about juggling and even competed nationally during his teenage years.
Rather than following a traditional academic path, Dempsey chose to pursue acting professionally while still young, which led him to move to New York and begin auditioning for roles.
Parents & Siblings
Patrick Dempsey’s mother, Amanda Dempsey, worked as a school secretary, and his father, William Dempsey, worked in insurance sales. He has two older sisters and has often spoken about the strong influence his family had on his upbringing.
Education
Dempsey attended St. Dominic Regional High School in Maine. He did not attend college, instead choosing to focus fully on acting opportunities in New York. His early dedication helped him secure stage and film roles at a young age.
His teenage experience in competitive juggling also helped build confidence and stage presence that later benefited his acting career.
Career
Patrick Dempsey began his career in the mid-1980s with roles in romantic comedies such as Can’t Buy Me Love and Loverboy, quickly becoming a teen idol.
His global breakthrough came in 2005 when he was cast as Dr. Derek Shepherd in Grey’s Anatomy. The character, nicknamed “McDreamy,” became a cultural phenomenon and made Dempsey an international star.
In addition to television, Dempsey has appeared in films including Enchanted, Made of Honor, Bridget Jones’s Baby, and Transformers: Dark of the Moon. He has also pursued professional auto racing and competed in prestigious endurance events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Career Timeline
1985–1999
Rose to fame through romantic comedies and established himself as a young Hollywood leading man.
2005–2015
Starred as Dr. Derek Shepherd on Grey’s Anatomy, becoming one of television’s highest-paid actors.
2016–Present
Continued film projects, racing career, and made special returns to television.
Relationships, Wife & Children
Patrick Dempsey is married to Jillian Fink, a professional makeup artist and entrepreneur. The couple married in 1999 and have remained together despite briefly separating in 2015 before reconciling.
Together, they have three children: Talula Fyfe Dempsey, Darby Galen Dempsey, and Sullivan Patrick Dempsey.
Physical Measurements
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
- Weight: Around 170 lbs (77 kg)
- Body Type: Athletic
- Hair Color: Dark Brown (graying)
- Eye Color: Blue
Lifestyle & Interests
Dempsey leads an active lifestyle centered around motorsports, fitness, and philanthropy. He is deeply involved in auto racing and owns Dempsey Racing. Inspired by his mother’s battle with cancer, he founded the Dempsey Center, which provides free support services to individuals affected by cancer.
Social Media
- Instagram: @patrickdempsey
- Facebook: Patrick Dempsey
- Twitter (X): @PatrickDempsey
Net Worth
As of 2026, Patrick Dempsey’s estimated net worth is approximately $85 million, earned from television contracts, film roles, endorsements, racing ventures, and business investments.
Trivia
- He was named People Magazine’s “Sexiest Man Alive” in 2023.
- He was a nationally ranked competitive juggler in his teens.
- His nickname “McDreamy” became a global pop culture reference.
- He nearly pursued racing full-time before focusing on acting.
- He returned to Grey’s Anatomy for special appearances after leaving the series.
FAQs
How old is Patrick Dempsey?
He is 60 years old as of 2026.
How tall is Patrick Dempsey?
He is approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall.
What is Patrick Dempsey’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is around $85 million as of 2026.
Who is Patrick Dempsey’s wife?
He is married to Jillian Fink.
What is Patrick Dempsey best known for?
He is best known for playing Dr. Derek Shepherd on Grey’s Anatomy.
