Pauley Perrette, best known for her iconic role as Abby Sciuto on NCIS, is a multifaceted American actress, singer, writer, and activist. As of September 26, 2025, she is 56 years old, with a net worth estimated at $22 million, largely from her acting career and advocacy work. Although previously married to Coyote Shivers (2000–2006), she is currently single, with no confirmed dating relationships. Standing at 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing approximately 137 lbs, Perrette remains a vibrant figure. This article explores her current life, career shifts, and personal insights, offering fresh perspectives beyond existing narratives.
Pauley Perrette’s Current Age and Background
Born on March 27, 1969, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Pauley Perrette’s age in 2025 is 56. Her Southern roots and diverse upbringing across the U.S. South shaped her eclectic personality, reflected in her punk-inspired style and advocacy. Perrette’s early aspirations leaned toward criminal justice, studying at Valdosta State University and John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Her unexpected entry into acting, sparked by a chance encounter while bartending in New York, highlights her adaptability. This resilience continues to define her, as she navigates life post-NCIS with a focus on personal growth and philanthropy.
Net Worth and Salary: A Financial Overview
Pauley Perrette’s net worth is estimated at $22 million in 2025, built through her prolific acting career, notably earning $200,000 per episode during her NCIS tenure (2003–2018). Her wealth also stems from endorsements, voice-over work, and entrepreneurial ventures, including co-owning a Southern-style bakery in Manhattan. Unlike many celebrities, Perrette channels significant portions of her wealth into charitable causes, particularly animal rights and civil liberties. Her financial strategy reflects a balance of professional success and social responsibility, a rare insight into her values not widely covered.
Married Life and Dating Updates
Is Pauley Perrette married? As of 2025, Perrette is not married. She was previously wed to musician Coyote Shivers from 2000 to 2006, a marriage that ended amid personal challenges, including allegations against Shivers in 2018. Reports of her engagement to Thomas Arklie surfaced around 2010, with Perrette stating she would not marry until same-sex marriage was legalized in California—a stance reflecting her advocacy for equality. However, no marriage materialized, and recent updates suggest she is single, keeping her dating life private. Perrette’s focus appears to be on self-care and activism, a shift from earlier public relationships.
“I’ve always believed in living authentically, whether in love or work. Right now, my heart is with my causes and creative projects.” – Pauley Perrette (paraphrased from her social media reflections)
Height, Weight, and Physical Stats
Pauley Perrette’s height is 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm), and her weight is approximately 137 lbs (62 kg), maintaining an average build. Known for her distinctive gothic style on NCIS, she has about 22 tattoos, each telling a story of her life and beliefs. Perrette’s dietary choices, such as eliminating sugar due to health concerns, reflect her commitment to wellness. Her height and confident presence made her a standout on screen, contributing to her enduring appeal as a relatable yet bold figure.
Career Evolution: Beyond NCIS
Perrette retired from acting in 2020 after starring in the sitcom Broke, marking a significant pivot from her NCIS days. Her role as Abby Sciuto earned her two People’s Choice Award nominations, cementing her as a fan favorite. Beyond acting, she has explored music as the lead singer of the punk band Lo-Ball and released tracks for NCIS soundtracks. Perrette’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through her bakery venture, documented in a book about her journey with friends to establish it. In 2025, she remains active in advocacy, particularly for animal rights and LGBTQ+ equality, using her platform to inspire change.
Case Study: Perrette’s Advocacy Impact
Perrette’s activism extends beyond donations. She has partnered with organizations like the American Humane Association, advocating for animal welfare. A 2023 campaign she supported raised over $500,000 for shelter adoptions, showcasing her tangible impact. Her work provides a unique angle: unlike many celebrities, Perrette’s advocacy is hands-on, often volunteering at shelters or speaking at events, which she shares on her Twitter and Instagram.
Biography Table: Pauley Perrette’s Life at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Pauley Perrette |
| Date of Birth | March 27, 1969 |
| Age (2025) | 56 years |
| Birthplace | New Orleans, Louisiana, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (Scottish, English, Irish, Welsh, German) |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
| Weight | 137 lbs (62 kg) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $22 million |
| Salary (NCIS Peak) | $200,000 per episode |
| Marital Status | Single (previously married to Coyote Shivers, 2000–2006) |
| Current Dating Status | Single, no confirmed relationships |
| Education | Valdosta State University, John Jay College of Criminal Justice |
| Occupation | Actress, singer, writer, entrepreneur, activist |
| Notable Roles | Abby Sciuto (NCIS), Jackie (Broke), Cecilia Wiznarksi (Time of Your Life) |
| Music Contributions | Lead singer of Lo-Ball, NCIS soundtrack contributions |
| Advocacy Focus | Animal rights, LGBTQ+ equality, civil liberties |
| Tattoos | Approximately 22 tattoos |
| Social Media | Twitter, Instagram |
| Wikipedia | Pauley Perrette Wiki |
Unique Insights: Perrette’s Post-Retirement Life
Since retiring, Perrette has embraced a quieter life, focusing on creative and humanitarian pursuits. Unlike many retired actors, she avoids the spotlight, prioritizing authenticity over fame. Her social media posts reveal a passion for photography and storytelling, often sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of her advocacy work. A 2024 interview on a podcast highlighted her interest in mentoring young activists, a lesser-known aspect of her legacy. This shift underscores a trend among aging celebrities: leveraging fame for impact rather than personal gain.
Why Perrette’s Story Resonates
Perrette’s journey from a criminal justice student to a beloved actress and advocate offers a compelling narrative. Her openness about personal struggles, including her mother’s death from breast cancer and her own health challenges, humanizes her. Fans admire her for staying true to her values, whether through her punk aesthetic or her refusal to marry until equality was achieved. Her story is a reminder that success isn’t just about net worth or salary but about making a difference.
Conclusion: Pauley Perrette in 2025
Pauley Perrette remains a dynamic figure at 56, with a net worth of $22 million, a height of 5’10”, and a weight of 137 lbs. Though single and not actively dating, her focus on advocacy and creative projects keeps her relevant. Her legacy as Abby Sciuto endures, but her current work in philanthropy and storytelling adds depth to her public persona. For more on her life, visit her Wikipedia page or follow her on Twitter.
