Who Is Peter Tork? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on February 13, 1942, Peter Tork was an American musician and actor who captured the hearts of many during his time with The Monkees, a band formed in the 1960s. Known for their catchy tunes and TV series, Tork brought charm and creativity to the group until his passing in February 2019. As of 2025, he would have been 83 years old.
| Occupation | Rock Singer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 13, 1942 |
| Age | 77 Years |
| Birth Place | Washington, D.C., U.S. |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 21 February, 2019 |
| Died Place | Willimantic, Connecticut, U.S. |
Popularity
Peter Tork's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
During his lifetime, Peter Tork stood at an approximate height of 6 feet (183 cm) with a lean build. While specific weight measurements varied over the years, he was known for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Although detailed body measurements are not prominently recorded, Tork's engaging presence and unique style contributed to his appeal both on and off the stage.
On March 3, 2009, Tork reported on his website that he had been diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma, a rare, slow-growing form of head and neck cancer. A preliminary biopsy showed that cancer had not spread beyond the initial site. "It's a bad news/good news situation", explained Tork.
"It's so rare a combination (on the tongue) that there isn't a lot of experience among the medical community about this particular combination. On the other hand, the type of cancer it is, never mind the location, is somewhat well known, and the prognosis, I'm told, is good." Tork underwent radiation therapy to prevent the cancer from returning.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Peter Tork was known for his relationships throughout his life. He was married twice: first to his college sweetheart, Barbara St. John, and later to Judith Tork. He also had a daughter named Hallie Tork with Judith. Despite his past relationships, Tork often kept his love life private; there have been no widely reported boyfriends or partners in his later years, focusing instead on his music and family.
He was the son of Virginia Hope (née Straus) and Halsten John Thorkelson, an economics professor at the University of Connecticut. His paternal grandfather was of Norwegian descent, while his mother was of half German Jewish and half Irish ancestry.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Peter Tork's net worth was estimated to be around $4 million. His income primarily stemmed from his music career, acting roles, and various performances after the height of The Monkees’ fame. His legacy continues to contribute to his family's financial stability through royalties and retrospectives of his work.
No longer getting the group dynamic he wanted, and pleading "exhaustion" from the grueling schedule, Tork bought out the remaining four years of his contract for $160,000, leaving him with little income.
In the DVD commentary for the 33⅓ Revolutions per Monkee TV special – originally broadcast April 14, 1969 – Dolenz noted that Nesmith gave Tork a gold watch as a going-away present, with the engraving "From the guys down at work." Jones noted at the time that "Peter's soul left us two and a half years ago.
He was a banjo player from Greenwich Village who was made into an actor and finally decided that he didn't want to be a Marx Brother forever. His heart was back in the Village, that's all." Dolenz reflected on Tork's departure, saying, "Three of us more or less play ourselves in the series. The odd one out is Peter Tork.
Offstage he's a real serious guy who thinks a lot about things like religion and problems in the world. But in the show, he throws off all that and becomes a dumb-but-likable character who is always doing the wrong thing at the wrong time. He kind of moons around with a lovesick expression on his face — not like the real Peter Tork at all."
Career, Business, and Investments
Tork first rose to fame in the 1960s as part of The Monkees, alongside Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, and Michael Nesmith. The band not only produced a string of hits but also starred in their own television series, which showcased their comedic talents and music. Post-Monkees, Tork engaged in various musical projects, collaborations, and solo performances, demonstrating his versatility as an artist.
His ventures into musical theater and songwriting further showcased his talents beyond the band. Though specific business investments remain private, his career in music and media continues to influence a new generation of musicians.
Social Network
Peter Tork was not particularly active on social media, a rarity for a musician of his era. However, fan pages and official accounts often share his work and commemorate his legacy. These platforms allow new audiences to discover his contributions to music and entertainment, celebrating his unique talent and spirit.
In July 2009, while undergoing radiation therapy, he was interviewed by The Washington Post: "I recovered very quickly after my surgery, and I've been hoping that my better-than-average constitution will keep the worst effects of radiation at bay.
My voice and energy still seem to be in decent shape, so maybe I can pull these gigs off after all." He continued to tour and perform while receiving his treatments.
Education
Tork attended New York University, where he studied at the School of the Arts, focusing on gaining a deeper understanding of his passion for music and theater. His education played a foundational role in shaping his artistic expressions and performances throughout his career.
Tork began studying piano at the age of nine, showing an aptitude for music by learning to play several different instruments, including the banjo, acoustic bass, and guitar. He attended Windham High School in Willimantic, Connecticut, and was a member of the first graduating class at E. O. Smith High School in Storrs, Connecticut.
He attended Carleton College before he moved to New York City, where he became part of the folk music scene in Greenwich Village during the first half of the 1960s. While there, he befriended other up-and-coming musicians, such as Stephen Stills.
