Who Is Peter Ostrum? Age, Biography and Wiki
Peter Ostrum, the American veterinarian and former child actor, was born on November 1, 1957, making him 67 years old in 2025. He gained fame as a child actor portraying Charlie Bucket in the 1971 film adaptation of Roald Dahl's classic, "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory." After his stint in Hollywood, Ostrum chose a different path, pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. His story is an inspiring tale of how one can transition from the glitz of Hollywood to a fulfilling and impactful profession.
| Occupation | Veterinarian |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 1, 1957 |
| Age | 67 Years |
| Birth Place | Dallas, Texas, US |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Peter Ostrum's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Peter Ostrum stands at a height of approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm). While his weight is generally around 160 pounds (73 kg), he has maintained a healthy and active lifestyle. His notable features include his warm smile and approachable demeanor, characteristics that have lingered from his childhood fame.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Peter Ostrum married Loretta Limpach in 1987. The couple has two children together, making them a close-knit family. While specific information about his dating life prior to marriage is limited, his long-term commitment to Loretta highlights his values in relationships. As of 2025, he remains happily married, enjoying a supportive partnership while managing his professional and personal life.
Ostrum became interested in his family's horses when he returned from shooting Willy Wonka and was particularly influenced by the veterinarian who tended to them. Ostrum received a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1984 and retired by late 2023. As of 2021, he lived in Glenfield, New York with his wife Loretta, having raised two children.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Peter Ostrum's net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. While this is a modest figure compared to other celebrities from his era, his earnings are primarily sourced from his veterinary practice and occasional appearances at conventions and events related to his early acting career. Despite his one-hit-wonder status in the film industry, Ostrum has built a sustainable career outside of show business, which has contributed to his financial stability.
Career, Business and Investments
Ostrum initially stepped into the limelight as a child actor, but he transitioned into veterinary medicine after deciding to forgo a Hollywood career. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from Cornell University and currently practices at a veterinary clinic in the United States. His career reflects a commitment to animal health and welfare, focusing on increasing public awareness about veterinary care.
In addition to his practice, Ostrum has participated in speaking engagements and film conventions where he discusses his experiences in the film industry. His combination of talents allows him to connect with both veterinary professionals and fans of his childhood film.
Ostrum was 12 years old when selected by talent agents for Willy Wonka. Though he enjoyed the experience of shooting the film, he opted not to sign a three-film contract when it was over. After eschewing a career in film and theater, he was reluctant to speak about his one starring role.
In 1990, he began an annual tradition of speaking to schoolchildren about the film, and he became a subject of interest again when the 2005 film Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was released to theaters.
Social Network
While Peter Ostrum is not overtly active on social media, he occasionally engages with fans through public appearances and interviews. His presence on platforms like Facebook and Instagram is minimal, choosing instead to maintain a low-profile lifestyle. This decision reflects his desire for privacy, especially after years in the public eye.
In 2000, Ostrum recalled that shooting Willy Wonka in Munich was "sort of like being an exchange student for five months". Fond memories of his five months in West Germany included watching the construction of Olympiapark, for the 1972 Summer Olympics, and working with Gene Wilder and Jack Albertson.
As Ostrum had not worked in film before, Wilder took it upon himself to instruct the young actor in the business. Ostrum would later describe Wilder as a quirky yet gentle gentleman who "treated people with respect and dignity".
The bond that developed between the two actors was such that, even though they never saw each other again after filming Willy Wonka, Ostrum described Wilder's 2016 death as "like losing a parent"; in the 2023 documentary Remembering Gene Wilder, Ostrum remembered Wilder being fun to work with, and not speaking down to the child actors.
Education
Peter Ostrum studied at North Royalton High School before attending Cornell University, where he earned his veterinary degree. His educational background played a critical role in shaping his career and allowed him to transition successfully from a childhood star to a respected veterinarian.
He is the youngest of four children. Ostrum was living in Cleveland at age twelve—a city of which he was described as a native by MSNBC, and later attended North Hunterdon Regional High School in Hunterdon County, New Jersey.
