Who Is Paul Shaffer? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on November 28, 1949, Paul Shaffer is a celebrated Canadian musician, songwriter, and bandleader known for his roles in television and his work in the music industry. As of 2025, Paul Shaffer is 75 years old. He gained worldwide fame as the bandleader and musical director for "The Late Show with David Letterman" from 1982 until 2015. His extensive career has also seen him collaborating with numerous iconic artists and performing in various capacities.
| Occupation | Voice Actors |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 28, 1949 |
| Age | 75 Years |
| Birth Place | Toronto, Ontario, Canada |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | Canada |
Popularity
Paul Shaffer's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm)
- Weight: Around 155 lbs (70 kg)
- Body Stats: While specific body measurements are not publicly available, Paul has maintained a slim build throughout his career, often seen in well-tailored suits during performances.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Paul Shaffer shares a strong bond with his family, consisting of his wife, Cathy Vasquez, whom he married in 1990. They have two children together. Though there are no public details about any significant relationships or affairs outside of his marriage, Shaffer has often spoken fondly of his family life.
He was raised in the Jewish faith; his mother volunteered with local charities, and donated to Hadassah Women's Zionist Organization of America. His father, a lawyer, was a jazz aficionado while his mother loved show tunes.
When Shaffer was 12, his parents took him on a trip to Las Vegas where they took in Nat King Cole and other shows; this was an experience Shaffer described later as "life changing" and led to his decision to become a performer.
As a child, Shaffer took piano lessons, and in his teenage years played the organ in a band called Fabulous Fugitives with his schoolmates in Thunder Bay. Later, he performed with the "Flash Landing Band" at different venues around Edmonton and the interior of British Columbia.
Educated at the University of Toronto, he began playing with jazz guitarist Tisziji Muñoz, performing in bands around the bars there, where he found an interest in musicals, and completed his studies, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology in 1971.
Net Worth and Salary
In 2025, Paul Shaffer's estimated net worth is around $30 million. His wealth has been primarily accumulated through his successful career as a musician, television host, and actor. He has also earned substantial income from performances, recordings, and other entertainment endeavors.
Career, Business and Investments
Paul Shaffer's career took off in the late 1970s and has expanded over several decades. Not only is he recognized for his role on "The Late Show," but he has also participated in various films, TV shows, and music recordings. Beyond his performances, Shaffer has ventured into writing and produced albums, including "Paul Shaffer & The World's Most Dangerous Band."
In addition to his entertainment career, Shaffer has invested in music-related businesses and continues to perform at various events and venues, keeping his passion for music alive.
Shaffer began his music career in 1972 when Stephen Schwartz invited him to be the musical director for the Toronto production of Godspell, starring Victor Garber, Gilda Radner, Martin Short, Eugene Levy, Dave Thomas, and Andrea Martin.
He went on to play piano for the Schwartz Broadway show The Magic Show in 1974, then became a member of the house band on NBC's Saturday Night Live (SNL) television program from 1975 to 1980 (except for a brief departure in 1977).
Though Shaffer was at the piano and appeared to be directing the band's actions, Howard Shore was credited as SNL's musical director, eventually turning the actual conducting of the band to Howard Johnson.
Shaffer also regularly appeared in the show's sketches, notably as the pianist for Bill Murray's Nick the Lounge Singer character, and as Don Kirshner. He also appeared as a keyboardist on the 1978 album Desire Wire, recorded by pop/rock star, musician, and backing vocalist Cindy Bullens.
Social Network
Paul Shaffer is active on social media platforms, where he shares insights into his life, career, and music. You can follow him on:
- Twitter: @PaulShaffer
- Instagram: @PaulShaffer
- Facebook: Paul Shaffer Official
Following the series' cancellation, Shaffer returned to SNL during the show's third season during the 1977-78 season. He was named a cast member during the 1979-80 season, as a featured player. Making him the first and only band member to join the cast. In the spring of 1980, Shaffer became the first person to say "fuck" on SNL.
That year, SNL parodied The Troggs Tapes with a medieval musical sketch featuring Shaffer, Bill Murray, Harry Shearer, and a "special guest appearance" by John Belushi (who had left the show the previous year). In the middle of a long tirade that featured repeated use of the word "flogging", Shaffer inadvertently uttered the forbidden word.
It not only escaped the censors in the live broadcast and the West Coast taped airing, but also reappeared in the summer rerun, and even in the syndicated versions of the show for several years. Shaffer, at Letterman's urging, related the story on the first episode of Late Night.
Education
Shaffer's educational background at York University played a pivotal role in shaping his musical talents. His education fostered a love for various musical genres and honed his performance skills, contributing to his later success in the entertainment industry.
In conclusion, Paul Shaffer continues to shine in his endeavors, merging his love for music with a profound respect for family and friendships. His journey remains inspirational to fans and aspiring musicians alike.
In 2002, a street that surrounds the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium in his hometown was renamed Paul Shaffer Drive. Shaffer has also received two honorary doctorates, including one from Lakehead University.
