Alan Hamel may not be the loudest name in Hollywood, but for anyone who loves classic TV, he is a quiet giant. Born on June 30, 1936, in Toronto, Ontario, Hamel carved out a career that crossed borders, broke format molds, and turned him into a multi-millionaire with an estimated net worth of $100 million. Now 89 years old, Alan’s story is much more than being the husband of Suzanne Somers. It’s about smart moves, charm on camera, and a talent for seeing the bigger picture behind the scenes.
How Did Alan Hamel Get His Start?
From an early age, Hamel was drawn to the world of broadcast. He went to Ryerson University to study Radio and Television Arts. That formal training set him up perfectly for Canada’s growing TV scene in the 1960s. His big break came with Razzle Dazzle, a children’s show that ran from 1961 to 1964. Hosting this hit show made Alan a friendly face for families across the country.
Crossing Over To American TV
By the late 60s, Alan Hamel wasn’t just content with Canadian fame. He began hosting game shows for American audiences. Wedding Party and Anniversary Game aired on ABC and helped Alan break into the U.S. market. It was on the Anniversary Game where Alan met Suzanne Somers. The two quickly connected and built a bond that would define both of their lives.
The Alan Hamel Show Era
In the 70s, Alan Hamel created something unique with The Alan Hamel Show on CTV. This daytime talk and variety program ran for years and became a must-watch for Canadian households. With celebrity guests, music acts, and lighthearted sketches, the show made Hamel one of Canada’s top TV hosts of the time.
Supporting Suzanne Somers’ Rise
While Alan’s on-screen career was steady, he always had a sharp business sense. Suzanne Somers, who shot to international fame through her role in Three’s Company, became the face of their next venture. Alan shifted from acting to producing and managing. Together, they saw that Somers could be more than just an actress—she could become a brand.
Building A Lifestyle Empire
Alan Hamel’s biggest business move was turning Suzanne Somers into a household brand name. They published bestsellers, launched fitness products, and tapped into the wellness world when it was just taking off. One of their best-known successes was the ThighMaster. In the 90s, you couldn’t turn on a TV without seeing Suzanne demonstrating this now-iconic workout gadget. They sold more than 10 million units. Smartly, when they saw the potential, they bought out their partners to take full control of the product and its profits.
Real Estate Investments And Big Wins
Alan and Suzanne didn’t stop at books and fitness gadgets. They were smart about real estate too. They owned several stunning homes, mainly in California. Their primary Palm Springs property was legendary—a massive 73-acre estate with unique architecture and even a funicular that connected multiple guesthouses. Though they first listed it for $35 million in 2008, they later downsized and sold a portion for $8.5 million in 2021.
They also gave back. In 2018, they donated a huge 480-acre piece of land in northern Palm Springs to the Coachella Valley Conservation Commission. In Malibu, their oceanfront properties fetched $12 million in 2016, adding to their growing fortune.
Family Life And Loss
Alan and Suzanne didn’t have children together, but Alan does have two children, Stephen and Leslie, from his previous marriage. Suzanne also had a son, Bruce Somers Jr., from her earlier marriage. Their blended family stayed close over the decades, often appearing together at family events and supporting each other’s ventures.
When Suzanne passed away in October 2023, just one day before her 77th birthday, Alan lost more than a partner—he lost his co-creator and confidant. The loss was a heavy one for the family, but their bond remains strong.
Finding New Companionship
In mid-2025, Alan Hamel found love again. He confirmed he’s now with actress Joanna Cassidy. Their paths crossed years ago during The Alan Hamel Show days and again through shared friends and family circles. At 89, Alan shows that life can surprise you, even when you think you’ve seen it all.
Alan Hamel’s Legacy Today
Alan Hamel’s $100 million fortune did not happen overnight. It came from years of being on camera, smart product deals, real estate flips, and knowing how to turn an idea into something people actually wanted. More than the money, though, it’s his ability to adapt that stands out. He moved from hosting to managing, stayed relevant in changing times, and always put family first.
He’s proof that behind many well-known stars is someone who works quietly, pulls the right strings, and never loses sight of what matters. Alan Hamel is that person. And even though he might not be as instantly recognizable as Suzanne Somers, his story reminds us that the best partnerships can build empires—one smart choice at a time.
