How much money has Donna Mills made from her decades-long career in television and film? Known for her iconic role as Abby Cunningham in Knots Landing, she has built an impressive fortune over the years. But acting isn’t her only source of income—she has also dabbled in business ventures and endorsements.
In this article, we’ll break down Donna Mills net worth, her earnings from acting, her financial ventures, and how she has sustained her wealth.
Donna Mills Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Donna Jean Miller |
| Popular Name | Donna Mills |
| Birth Date | December 11, 1940 |
| Age | 84 (as of 03/05/2025) |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Education | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Spouse | N/A |
| Children | Chloe Mills |
| Dating | Larry Gilman |
| Siblings | One brother |
| Parents | Bernice Miller |
| Height | 1.63 m |
| Net Worth | $9 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting (TV, Films), Business (Cosmetics) |
What is the Net Worth of Donna Mills in 2025?
As of 2025, Donna Mills’ net worth is estimated to be $9 million. This places her among Hollywood’s established TV actresses who have managed to sustain their financial success over decades.
Her wealth primarily comes from her acting career, spanning television, film, and theater. Mills gained fame through Knots Landing and later expanded into TV movies, business ventures, and guest roles in shows like General Hospital.
Compared to other veteran soap opera stars, her fortune is substantial, though lower than some of her peers.
Curious about how she compares to other successful TV actors? Check out the top-earning stars in entertainment.
Related Figures in Her Career
- Clint Eastwood
- Larry Gilman
- Nicollette Sheridan
- Chaka Khan
- Loni Anderson
- Morgan Fairchild
- Jordan Peele
- Linda Gray
- Genie Francis
- David O. Russell
Donna Mills Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Does She Earn from Acting and TV Shows?
Mills’ primary income comes from television acting, particularly her nine-year role in Knots Landing. At her peak, she was one of the most recognizable faces in prime-time soap operas.
Her TV career spans from Love Is a Many Splendored Thing to General Hospital, where she won a Daytime Emmy Award for her role as Madeline Reeves. Guest appearances in hit shows like Melrose Place, Cold Case, and Nip/Tuck have also contributed to her earnings.
Although exact salaries for her shows remain undisclosed, top soap opera actors typically earn six to seven figures annually, meaning her long-term presence in the industry has undoubtedly secured her a comfortable income.
What Are Her Main Sources of Income?
Aside from acting, Donna Mills’ wealth is bolstered by:
- Television production: She co-produced several TV movies, allowing her to take a share of the profits.
- Business ventures: She launched The Eyes Have It, a makeup line that gained popularity.
- Royalties & residuals: Shows like Knots Landing still generate income through reruns and streaming platforms.
- Endorsements & guest appearances: While she isn’t heavily involved in brand partnerships, occasional endorsements add to her wealth.
How Has She Built and Maintained Her Wealth?
Longevity in Hollywood requires smart financial planning. Mills has avoided excessive spending and invested in long-term opportunities. Her decision to step into production helped her retain more control over her career earnings.
She also chose diverse roles instead of relying solely on one hit show. Even after Knots Landing, she continued working in movies, TV dramas, and theater, ensuring a steady stream of income.
What Are Her Most Lucrative Roles and Projects?
Mills’ most profitable roles include:
- Abby Cunningham in Knots Landing – Her breakout role and biggest TV success.
- Play Misty for Me – Co-starring with Clint Eastwood helped elevate her profile.
- General Hospital – Won her an Emmy and reignited interest in her career.
- Nope (2022) – Appeared in Jordan Peele’s horror film.
- Lifetime Movies & TV Specials – Continued revenue from V.C. Andrews’ Dawn and Ladies of the ’80s: A Divas Christmas.
How Does She Compare to Other Soap Opera Stars Financially?
While she is not among the highest-paid TV actresses, her wealth is above average for long-time soap opera stars. Compared to names like Susan Lucci or Larry Hagman, her net worth is slightly lower but still impressive for someone who started in the 1960s.
Her financial strength comes from her consistent work ethic and ability to pivot into different roles, even in later years.
Does She Have Any Business Ventures Outside of Acting?
Yes! Mills launched her own makeup line, The Eyes Have It, which focused on beauty techniques and cosmetics.
Unlike other celebrity brands, her venture was unique because it stemmed from an instructional beauty video, teaching fans how to achieve different makeup looks. While it’s no longer a dominant brand, it added to her financial portfolio.
What Awards and Achievements Have Contributed to Her Financial Success?
Mills’ Daytime Emmy Award for General Hospital and her Soap Opera Digest Awards for Knots Landing have enhanced her career value.
Recognition in Hollywood often translates to better roles, higher salaries, and more opportunities in film and television.
What Is the Future of Her Career and Financial Growth?
Even in her 80s, Mills continues to take on new projects. Recent appearances in Nope, Origin, and Lifetime’s V.C. Andrews’ Dawn prove that she remains relevant.
Her future earnings will likely come from guest roles, film projects, and legacy royalties. Given her history of smart financial decisions, her wealth is expected to remain stable.
Conclusion
Donna Mills has built an enduring legacy in Hollywood, both on-screen and behind the scenes. Her ability to stay financially secure comes from smart career moves and diversified income sources.
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