Amanda Blake, best known for her iconic role as Miss Kitty on the hit TV show Gunsmoke, remains a beloved figure even decades after her passing. Her contributions to television earned her fame, and many fans are curious about Amanda Blake net worth, her lasting legacy, and how she spent her fortune.
Let’s take a deep dive into Amanda’s life and uncover the financial aspect of her career.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Beverly Louise Neill |
| Popular Name | Amanda Blake |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | February 20, 1929 – August 16, 1989 |
| Age | 60 (at death) |
| Parents | Jesse Neill, Louise Neill |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Birthplace | Buffalo, New York |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Education | Pomona College, Brenau Academy |
| Marital Status | Divorced 4 times, widowed once |
| Spouse | Jack Shea (m. 1952; div. 1953) Don Whitman (m. 1954; div. 1956) Jason Day (m. 1964; div. 1967) Frank Gilbert (m. 1967; div. 1982) Mark Spaeth (m. 1984; died 1985) |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $500,000 |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, TV roles, animal welfare work |
| Height | 1.67 m |
What is the Net Worth of Amanda Blake in 2024?
Amanda Blake‘s net worth in 2024 remains $500,000, the same as at the time of her passing in 1989. Her long-running role on Gunsmoke, combined with her later television appearances, contributed significantly to her financial standing.
Compared to other celebrities from her era, her net worth may appear modest, but it was bolstered by her achievements in animal welfare, particularly her efforts with cheetah breeding. Here are some other notable figures related to Amanda Blake:
- James Arness
- Frank Gilbert
- Mark Spaeth
- Ronald Reagan
- Gary Cooper
- Dean Martin
- James Woods
- Greer Garson
- Sean Young
- Don Whitman
For readers curious about how other actresses have fared, explore our detailed analysis of the most successful women in television.
Amanda Blake Salary and Finance Overview
Key Achievements and Career Milestones That Contributed to Her Wealth
Amanda Blake’s career began with small film roles, but it was her portrayal of Miss Kitty on Gunsmoke that truly defined her success. With a 19-year tenure on the show, she became a household name, and her salary grew in parallel.
This long-standing role gave her both financial stability and fame. Her continued popularity led to guest appearances on Hollywood Squares, The Red Skelton Show, and Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts—all of which boosted her income.
Major Contributions to Film and Television
While Blake is most famous for her television work, she also appeared in a range of films, including Miss Robin Crusoe, A Star Is Born, and The Boost. Although these film roles were less frequent, they added variety to her career and increased her earnings.
During the peak of her career, she was often cast in Western-themed roles, cementing her status as a key figure in the genre.
Industry Recognition and Awards
Her industry recognition further solidified her financial position. Key awards include:
- Golden Globe nomination for Gunsmoke
- Three Primetime Emmy nominations for her role as Miss Kitty
- Inducted into the Hall of Great Western Performers in 1968
This recognition not only elevated her celebrity status but also increased her opportunities for higher salaries in the competitive television industry.
Animal Welfare Contributions and Impact on Her Legacy
Aside from acting, she was passionate about animal welfare, co-founding the Arizona Animal Welfare League, a significant achievement that contributed to her legacy.
Her work in cheetah breeding was groundbreaking, as she and her husband Frank Gilbert raised seven generations of cheetahs in captivity. Though these efforts were more personal, they enhanced her public image, drawing attention to her charity work.
Personal Life and Relationships Influencing Her Career and Wealth
Blake’s personal life also had an impact on her financial standing. She was married five times, with Mark Spaeth being her last husband, who passed away just a year after their marriage.
Her relationships, especially her involvement with Frank Gilbert, played a role in her charitable ventures, particularly her focus on animal welfare.
Health Struggles and Later Life Financial Impact
In 1977, Blake was diagnosed with oral cancer due to her heavy smoking. Following surgery, she became a strong advocate for cancer awareness and partnered with the American Cancer Society to raise funds and awareness.
These public engagements, combined with her reputation as a respected actress, maintained her visibility even after Gunsmoke. However, her health struggles, particularly her death from AIDS-related pneumonia, had a profound impact on her later years, both personally and financially.
FAQs About Amanda Blake
What was Blake’s most famous role?
Her most famous role was as Miss Kitty Russell in the long-running TV series Gunsmoke.
Did she receive any major awards?
Yes, she was nominated for three Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe for her performance in Gunsmoke. She was also inducted into the Hall of Great Western Performers in 1968.
What contributions did she make to animal welfare?
She co-founded the Arizona Animal Welfare League and was heavily involved in cheetah breeding with her husband Frank Gilbert.
Was Amanda Blake married?
Yes, she was married five times. Her last husband was Mark Spaeth, who passed away in 1985.
How did Amanda Blake pass away?
She died from AIDS-related pneumonia in 1989. She was initially treated for oral cancer, which she overcame in 1977.
Did Amanda Blake have any children?
No, she did not have any children during her lifetime.
What other shows did she appear on?
She made guest appearances on The Red Skelton Show, Hollywood Squares, Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts, and more.
What role did she play in films?
She appeared in films such as Miss Robin Crusoe, A Star Is Born, and The Boost.
Was she involved in charity work?
Yes, she was an active supporter of animal welfare and worked closely with organizations such as the American Cancer Society.
Conclusion
At Ando Money, we love exploring the careers of iconic figures like Amanda Blake. If you enjoyed this article, feel free to comment, share, or read more at Andomoney.com.
