How much was Donna Douglas net worth during her lifetime? Best known for playing Elly May Clampett in The Beverly Hillbillies, she built a career in television, music, and real estate. But how did she earn her money, and what happened to her finances after Hollywood?
Let’s take a closer look at her financial journey.
Donna Douglas Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Doris Ione Smith |
| Popular Name | Donna Douglas |
| Birth Date | September 26, 1932 |
| Age | Died: January 1, 2015 (age 82 years) |
| Birthplace | Pride, Louisiana, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Education | St. Gerard Catholic School |
| Marital Status | Divorced twice |
| Spouse | Robert M. Leeds (m. 1971–1980), Roland Bourgeois (m. 1949–1954) |
| Children | 1 |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | 1 (brother) |
| Parents | Emmet Ratcliff Smith and Elma Robinson |
| Height | 1.7 m |
| Net Worth | $500,000 (as of 2015) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Real Estate, Gospel Music, Writing |
What is the Net Worth Of Donna Douglas in 2025?
Donna Douglas had an estimated net worth of $500,000 at the time of her passing in 2015. While this may seem modest compared to today’s richest celebrities, her financial journey was shaped by her long-running TV career, music, and brief ventures into real estate.
Compared to other classic TV stars, her net worth was lower than figures like Buddy Ebsen, her co-star, or other Hollywood legends. However, her impact on television remains significant.
Related People & Companies
- Buddy Ebsen
- Max Baer Jr.
- CBS
- Mattel
- Elvis Presley
- Hollywood Industry
- Walt Disney Company
- Bette Midler
- Whoopi Goldberg
For a look at the most successful TV actors and their financial success, check out this list of high-earning stars in entertainment.
Donna Douglas Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did She Earn Her Wealth?
Donna Douglas made most of her money from acting, primarily through her role as Elly May Clampett in The Beverly Hillbillies. The show was a massive success, ranking as #1 in the U.S. for its first two years.
While she was not as widely known before The Beverly Hillbillies, her selection from over 500 actresses for the role changed her career. The show’s popularity allowed her to explore other income sources, including music, public appearances, and real estate.
What Were Her Salary and Earnings from Acting?
Her exact salary per episode of The Beverly Hillbillies remains unknown. However, as a leading character on a hit series, she likely earned a respectable sum during its nine-year run from 1962 to 1971.
After the show ended, Douglas continued making money through guest appearances, including a reunion movie in 1981 and various television specials. However, her career never reached the same financial heights again.
Did She Have Other Sources of Income?
Beyond acting, Douglas explored multiple revenue streams:
- Gospel Music – She recorded several gospel albums starting in 1982.
- Book Publishing – She wrote a children’s book, Donna’s Critters and Kids, blending Bible stories with coloring activities. Later, she published a cookbook, Southern Favorites with a Taste of Hollywood.
- Public Speaking – She frequently appeared at church events, schools, and conventions, speaking about faith and entertainment.
How Did Legal Disputes Affect Her Finances?
Donna Douglas was involved in two major lawsuits that had financial implications:
1993: Lawsuit Against Disney & Sister Act
- She sued Walt Disney Company, Whoopi Goldberg, and Bette Midler, claiming Sister Act was plagiarized from a book she owned the rights to.
- She and her partner declined a $1 million settlement, but ultimately lost the case.
2011: Lawsuit Against Mattel
- She sued Mattel for using her likeness in an Elly May Barbie doll without her permission.
- The case was settled privately, with terms undisclosed.
Did She Invest in Real Estate?
After The Beverly Hillbillies, Douglas briefly worked as a real estate agent. However, she did not stay in the field long and returned to entertainment.
There is no publicly available data on whether she owned significant property holdings.
What Was Her Financial Status at the Time of Her Passing?
At the time of her death in 2015, Douglas had a stable but modest financial situation. Unlike many actors, she did not make large-scale investments or endorsements. Instead, she focused on faith-based projects and charity work, particularly helping children.
What Is Her Financial Legacy?
Despite not amassing millions, Donna Douglas left behind a cultural and financial legacy:
- The Beverly Hillbillies continues to be a classic TV series, keeping her memory alive.
- Her gospel music and books still resonate with fans.
- She remains a symbol of classic Hollywood television success, proving that financial success is not the only measure of a lasting legacy.
Conclusion
Donna Douglas may not have been the wealthiest Hollywood star, but her financial journey is still fascinating. From acting to music and legal battles, she navigated many ups and downs. What are your thoughts on her career and finances? Share in the comments or explore more celebrity net worth articles on andomoney.com.
