Cole Kenneth Hauser (born March 22, 1975) is an American actor recognized for portraying intense, rugged roles in both movies and television. He has established a consistent career by embracing challenging and intricate parts in independent cinema as well as major studio films. Hauser first garnered attention in the 1990s with films such as School Ties (1992), Dazed and Confused (1993), and Higher Learning (1995). His significant breakthrough occurred in Tigerland (2000), where he depicted a troubled soldier and received an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Supporting Male.
During his career, Hauser has featured in notable films like Good Will Hunting (1997), Pitch Black (2000), 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003), A Good Day to Die Hard (2013), Olympus Has Fallen (2013), and Transcendence (2014). More recently, he has gained fame for his role as Rip Wheeler in the Paramount Network series Yellowstone (2018 to present), portraying a devoted ranch hand and enforcer alongside Kevin Costner.
Age
Cole Hauser was born on March 22, 1975, in Santa Barbara, California. He will celebrate his 50th birthday in March 2026.
Biography Update
Cole Hauser was raised in a Hollywood household. His mother, Cass Warner, established Warner Sisters. His father is actor Wings Hauser. Cole’s maternal great-grandfather, Harry Warner, was a co-founder of Warner Bros., and his maternal grandfather was screenwriter Milton Sperling. Hauser has German and Irish ancestry on his father’s side and is of Jewish descent from his mother’s side. His parents split when he was young, and he was brought up by his mother, moving between California, Oregon, and Florida.
Cole displayed an early passion for acting. At 16, he departed high school to follow a path in entertainment. He participated in the Stagedoor Manor Performing Arts Centre summer camp in the Catskills, where he secured the leading role in Dark of the Moon and received positive reviews. His debut film role was in School Ties (1992), followed by roles in Dazed and Confused (1993) and Higher Learning (1995). He worked continuously throughout the 1990s and 2000s, featuring in films helmed by Richard Linklater, John Singleton, and Joel Schumacher.
Hauser’s significant breakthrough occurred with Tigerland (2000), directed by Joel Schumacher, where he portrayed a defiant soldier alongside Colin Farrell. This performance led to an Independent Spirit Award nomination. He subsequently took on supporting roles in A Good Day to Die Hard (2013), Olympus Has Fallen (2013), and Transcendence (2014). His most renowned role is Rip Wheeler on Yellowstone (2018 to present), a neo-Western created by Taylor Sheridan. The series brought Hauser widespread recognition, and viewers resonated with Rip’s loyalty and complexity. As of 2026, Yellowstone is concluding its final season, and Hauser is exploring new ventures while prioritizing family and ranch life in Montana.
Wife
Cole Hauser is wed to Cynthia Daniel, who is an actress and photographer. They began their relationship in the late 1990s and tied the knot in 2006. Cynthia is recognized for her part in Sweet Valley High, but later shifted her focus to photography and family. The pair cherishes their privacy and is recognized for being a strong, supportive duo. They reside on a ranch in Montana, raising their children and enjoying a tranquil existence.
Net Worth
As of 2026, Cole Hauser’s estimated net worth ranges between $10 and $15 million. He generates income from various avenues:
- Compensation from major films (2 Fast 2 Furious, Olympus Has Fallen, Transcendence)
- Long-term revenues from Yellowstone (reportedly $200,000–$400,000 per episode in later seasons)
- Producing and smaller movie roles
- Promotional deals and brand collaborations
- Real estate and ranch investments (Montana property)
His ongoing portrayal in Yellowstone has significantly boosted his income in recent years.
Family
Cole Hauser and Cynthia Daniel have three children:
- Ryland Hauser (son, born September 2004)
- Colt Hauser (son, born December 2008)
- Steely Rose Hauser (daughter, born March 2011)
The family resides on a ranch in Montana. Cole has expressed how vital it is to raise his children in a stable, outdoor environment, away from Hollywood’s demands. He values family, privacy, and cherishing quality moments together. Cole has no children from prior relationships and maintains a very private family life.
Movies
Cole Hauser has featured in numerous films across various genres. Key highlights include:
- School Ties (1992) – Early role
- Dazed and Confused (1993) – Benny O’Donnell
- Higher Learning (1995) – Scott Moss
- Good Will Hunting (1997) – Billy McBride
- Tigerland (2000) – Staff Sergeant Cota (Independent Spirit nomination)
- Pitch Black (2000) – William J. Johns
- 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003) – Carter Verone
- Tears of the Sun (2003) – James “Red” Atkins
- The Break-Up (2006) – Lupus Grobowski
- A Good Day to Die Hard (2013) – CIA Agent Mike Collins
- Olympus Has Fallen (2013) – Secret Service Agent Roma
- Transcendence (2014) – Colonel Stevens
He is most recognized for his portrayal of Rip Wheeler on Yellowstone (2018 to present), a role that has significantly influenced his recent career.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Cole Kenneth Hauser |
| Date of Birth | March 22, 1975 |
| Age (March 2026) | 50 |
| Net Worth (2026 est.) | $10–15 million |
| Wife | Cynthia Daniel (married 2006–present; actress/photographer) |
| Children | Three: Ryland (b. 2004), Colt (b. 2008), Steely Rose (b. 2011) |
| Breakthrough Role | Tigerland (2000) |
| Signature Role | Rip Wheeler on Yellowstone (2018–present) |
| Recent Activity | Yellowstone final season (2024–2025); Montana ranch life |
