Ann Sothern, a classic Hollywood actress, left a significant mark on both film and television. But how did she achieve her financial success? In this article, we’ll dive deep into Ann Sothern net worth, exploring how she built her fortune through an illustrious career, notable awards, and savvy financial decisions.
Let’s see how her work in the entertainment industry cemented her place as one of Hollywood’s financial success stories, with insights from Ando Money.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Harriette Arlene Lake |
| Popular Name | Ann Sothern |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | January 22, 1909 – March 15, 2001 |
| Age | 92 (at time of death) |
| Parents | Walter J. Lake, Annette Yde |
| Siblings | Marion, Bonnie |
| Birthplace | North Dakota, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Danish-American |
| Education | McPhail School of Music, University of Washington |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Robert Sterling (m. 1943–1949), Roger Pryor (m. 1936–1943) |
| Children | Patricia Ann (“Tisha”) Sterling |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $16 million (2001, adjusted) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting (Film, TV, Stage, Radio) |
| Height | 1.56 m |
What is the Net Worth Of Ann Sothern in 2024?
Ann Sothern’s net worth at the time of her death in 2001 was $16 million, adjusted for inflation. Over her long career, she built her wealth by starring in successful movies, television shows, and even on Broadway. Her financial success places her among the ranks of some of the most celebrated actresses in Hollywood history.
While other stars of her time, like Lucille Ball, made their fortunes in similar ways, Sothern’s consistency and versatility set her apart. If you’re interested in learning about the richest actress in Hollywood, check out the full list here.
Some other names related to her career include:
- Lucille Ball
- Robert Sterling
- Roger Pryor
- Bette Davis
- Lillian Gish
- Jean Harlow
- Florenz Ziegfeld
- John Carroll
- Clark Gable
- Red Skelton
Ann Sothern Salary and Finance Overview
How did she build her wealth through her career?
Ann Sothern‘s career spanned over six decades, with significant contributions to both film and television. She started with minor roles in the late 1920s and slowly worked her way up to starring roles. Her breakthrough came when she was cast as Maisie Ravier in MGM’s Maisie series.
This franchise, which included films like Congo Maisie and Gold Rush Maisie, brought her a stable income, and the popularity of the series led to sequels and a radio show, securing her long-term financial success.
Her move to television in the 1950s only added to her wealth. Shows like Private Secretary and The Ann Sothern Show were major hits.
Each ran for multiple seasons, providing steady earnings and eventually contributing to her legacy as a television icon. These shows not only boosted her profile but also added considerably to her salary, helping her accumulate wealth.
Most successful roles that contributed to her financial status
Sothern’s role in the Maisie film series was undoubtedly a cornerstone of her career. Between 1939 and 1947, she starred in ten Maisie films, earning consistent box office success. The franchise’s popularity allowed her to secure top billing and negotiate higher salaries.
Her transition to television was equally lucrative. The success of Private Secretary, which earned her three Primetime Emmy Award nominations, showcased her comedic talent and helped her stay relevant during a time when many film actors struggled with the rise of television.
The show’s strong performance contributed significantly to her financial standing.
Other notable roles, like her appearance in The Whales of August, added prestige to her name and boosted her financial success. Though she was in her 70s at the time, the film earned her an Academy Award nomination and brought in a final surge of income.
Television series enhance her financial growth
Television became a major source of income for Sothern in the 1950s. Private Secretary, which aired on CBS, quickly became one of the most popular sitcoms of its time, consistently ranking in the top 10 shows. This popularity allowed Sothern to negotiate better contracts and establish herself as a major TV star.
Her second major show, The Ann Sothern Show, ran for three seasons and won a Golden Globe Award. The consistent success of these shows, along with their eventual syndication, ensured that Sothern continued to earn residuals even after the shows ended.
Awards and achievements helped boost her profile and income
- 3 Primetime Emmy Nominations for Private Secretary
- Golden Globe Award for The Ann Sothern Show
- Academy Award Nomination for Best Supporting Actress in The Whales of August
- Two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (Television and Motion Pictures)
How did she manage and invest her wealth?
Ann Sothern was not only a talented actress but also a savvy businesswoman. In the 1950s, she invested in real estate, owning a 23-room mansion in Bel Air before later downsizing to a ranch in Idaho.
She also managed several production companies, including Vincent Productions, Inc., which produced Private Secretary, and Anso Productions, which managed The Ann Sothern Show.
Her investments extended to business ventures, such as the Ann Sothern Sewing Center, where she sold fabrics and sewing machines. These diverse income streams allowed her to maintain financial security throughout her life.
Health issues impact her career and finances
In the 1940s, Sothern contracted hepatitis, which sidelined her career for three years. Despite this, she continued working on the Maisie radio show during her recovery.
In 1974, a back injury during a stage production left her with chronic pain and mobility issues, which limited her ability to work in her later years. However, by this point, her investments and the syndication of her television shows ensured she remained financially stable despite reduced work.
FAQs about Ann Sothern
Who were her spouses?
She was married twice, first to Roger Pryor and then to Robert Sterling. Both marriages ended in divorce.
Did she have any children?
Yes, she had one daughter, Patricia Ann “Tisha” Sterling, from her marriage to Robert Sterling.
What awards did she receive?
She received three Primetime Emmy nominations, a Golden Globe Award, and an Academy Award nomination for The Whales of August.
What was her most famous television role?
Her most famous TV roles were as Susie MacNamara in Private Secretary and Katy O’Connor in The Ann Sothern Show.
Where did she live during her final years?
She lived on a ranch in Ketchum, Idaho, where she retired after her final film.
Conclusion
Ann Sothern’s legacy as an actress and businesswoman is remarkable. If you’d like to share your thoughts or learn more about other famous figures’ financial lives, visit Andomoney.com for more engaging content!
