Barbara Billingsley, widely recognized for her role as June Cleaver in Leave It to Beaver, was not just a beloved TV mom, but also a significant figure in the entertainment industry. Her career, spanning several decades, contributed heavily to her financial success.
Today, we’ll explore Barbara Billingsley net worth, her impressive career, and how she earned her wealth over time. At Ando Money, we delve into the details, giving readers insight into how she built her financial legacy.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Barbara Lillian Combes |
| Popular Name | Barbara Billingsley |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | December 22, 1915 – October 16, 2010 |
| Age at Death | 94 |
| Parents | Lillian McLaughlin, Robert Combes |
| Siblings | Elizabeth (older sister) |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White (English descent) |
| Education | Los Angeles Junior College |
| Marital Status | Married three times |
| Spouse | William Mortensen (m. 1959–1981), Roy Kellino (m. 1953–1956), Glenn Billingsley (m. 1941–1947) |
| Children | Drew Billingsley, Glenn Billingsley Jr. |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $12 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting (TV and films) |
| Height | 1.65 m |
What is the Net Worth of Barbara Billingsley in 2024?
Barbara Billingsley‘s net worth was estimated at $12 million at the time of her passing in 2010. Her wealth came from her extensive career in television and film, notably her iconic role as June Cleaver in Leave It to Beaver. Over time, her role on this show became a classic in American culture, bringing her residual fame.
When comparing her wealth with other figures in Hollywood, it’s worth mentioning a few names related to Billingsley:
- Jerry Mathers
- Hugh Beaumont
- Tony Dow
- Roy Kellino
- Glenn Billingsley
To learn more about famous actresses who made their fortune, check out other names of top TV stars right here.
Barbara Billingsley Salary and Finance Overview
How She Built Her Career and Contributed to Her Wealth
Barbara Billingsley began her career with uncredited roles in the 1940s, gaining steady work in films and television. Her big break came in 1957 when she was cast as June Cleaver in Leave It to Beaver.
The show’s success not only solidified her as a TV icon but also became a key contributor to her finances.
After Leave It to Beaver, Billingsley continued to earn from acting, appearing in The New Leave It to Beaver, films like Airplane!, and Muppet Babies. Each of these roles added to her wealth.
Significant Contributions from Film and Television Work
Barbara’s salary from Leave It to Beaver and the subsequent reboot, The New Leave It to Beaver, helped establish her financial foundation. Over the years, these iconic roles aired repeatedly in syndication, bringing her fame, even though her residuals from the original show were limited.
Additionally, her small but memorable role in the comedy film Airplane! became a key financial and career highlight.
Her voice acting role as Nanny on Muppet Babies also contributed to her income, showing that Billingsley wasn’t limited to just one type of role. She was able to diversify her career, adding different layers of earnings through the 1980s and 1990s.
Other Major Income Sources
While acting was her primary source of income, Billingsley also made significant real estate investments. The oceanfront Malibu home she purchased in the 1960s for $30,000 became a lucrative rental property in her later years, earning $20,000 to $40,000 per month. After her passing, this home was sold for $7.4 million, adding to her estate’s value.
Awards and Achievements That Enhanced Her Legacy
Barbara Billingsley received several accolades throughout her career:
- Daytime Emmy Nominations (1989, 1990) for Muppet Babies
- Cultural Icon Status for her role as June Cleaver
- Recognition for her diverse acting abilities, particularly in comedy
Her awards and achievements helped maintain her career’s longevity, bringing both financial and professional success over time.
Legacy and Posthumous Financial Impact
Billingsley’s financial legacy did not end with her passing. The continued popularity of Leave It to Beaver, along with the sale of her Malibu home, contributed to the enduring financial success of her estate.
Even today, Billingsley’s cultural legacy as an iconic TV mom keeps her name relevant, adding posthumous value to her contributions in Hollywood.
FAQs About Barbara Billingsley
What roles contributed the most to her wealth?
Her role as June Cleaver in Leave It to Beaver was the biggest contributor to her wealth, alongside her appearance in Muppet Babies and Airplane!.
How did her role in Airplane! impact her career?
The comedy role allowed Barbara to shed her “mom” image from Leave It to Beaver and diversify her career, leading to financial gains in new genres.
How did her voice role in Muppet Babies affect her career?
Her role as Nanny in Muppet Babies showcased her versatility, leading to further income from voice acting and award nominations.
What was her most iconic role?
Her portrayal of June Cleaver remains her most iconic role, which solidified her status in American pop culture.
How did her real estate investments affect her wealth?
Barbara’s Malibu property, purchased in the 1960s, became a key source of income, renting for tens of thousands per month and eventually sold for $7.4 million.
What is her lasting legacy in Hollywood?
Her legacy is primarily tied to her role in Leave It to Beaver, which remains one of the most well-known portrayals of a TV mother.
Who was Barbara Billingsley’s first husband?
Her first husband was Glenn Billingsley, a restaurateur, with whom she had two sons.
How did she balance her personal life with her career?
Billingsley balanced her personal and professional life by taking breaks from acting, returning later in life to continue her career.
What impact did Leave It to Beaver have on her estate?
The long-term success and syndication of Leave It to Beaver helped ensure a steady stream of income for her estate even after her passing.
What was her final film role?
Her final film role was in the 1997 Leave It to Beaver movie, where she reprised her role as Aunt Martha.
Conclusion
Barbara Billingsley’s lasting financial and cultural impact is a testament to her career’s success. To explore more about famous figures in Hollywood, visit Andomoney.com and feel free to share your thoughts with us!
