Ellen Burstyn has long been a staple in Hollywood, captivating audiences with her incredible performances. From her iconic role in The Exorcist to her Emmy-winning work in television, her career has left a lasting mark.
But what about her wealth? In this article, we’ll break down Ellen Burstyn net worth, explore her income from acting, television, and theater, and give you an in-depth look at how her finances reflect her successful career.
Ellen Burstyn Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Edna Rae Gillooly |
| Popular Name | Ellen Burstyn |
| Birth Date | December 7, 1932 |
| Age | 92 (as of March 7, 2025) |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Education | Attended Cass Technical High School, dropped out during senior year |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse(s) | Neil Nephew (m. 1964–1972), Paul Roberts (m. 1958–1961), William Alexander (m. 1950–1957) |
| Children | Jefferson Roberts |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Older brother (Jack), younger brother (Steve) |
| Parents | John (father), Correine (mother) |
| Height | 1.68 m |
| Net Worth | $20 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Film, TV, Theater |
What is the Net Worth of Ellen Burstyn in 2025?
As of 2025, Ellen Burstyn has an estimated net worth of $20 million. Her wealth stems from her successful career across film, television, and theater.
While she may not be among the highest-paid celebrities, her consistent presence in the entertainment industry, particularly in iconic roles such as The Exorcist and Requiem for a Dream, has allowed her to build significant wealth over the years.
While Ellen Burstyn’s net worth is impressive, it’s important to note that her peers in Hollywood, including legendary figures like Meryl Streep and Jessica Lange, have also reached similar financial milestones.
To see how Ellen compares with other prominent figures, check out our article on the top-earning Hollywood stars.
Related Celebrities:
- Meryl Streep
- Jessica Lange
- Lily Tomlin
- Al Pacino
- Robert De Niro
- Jack Nicholson
- Helen Mirren
- Tom Hanks
- Morgan Freeman
- Dustin Hoffman
For a deeper dive into the wealth of top stars, visit our richest celebrities section.
Ellen Burstyn Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
Acting Career and Its Financial Impact
Ellen Burstyn’s acting career is one of the most distinguished in Hollywood. Her breakthrough came in 1971 with The Last Picture Show, but it was The Exorcist (1973) that solidified her place as one of the highest-regarded actresses of her generation.
The financial impact of these iconic films cannot be understated. While The Exorcist alone earned significant box office revenue, it also generated royalties, a key source of income for actors with major roles in successful films.
Additionally, Ellen’s Academy Award-winning performance in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1974) elevated her to another financial tier, securing her not only more film roles but also more lucrative contracts.
Her involvement in multiple high-profile movies, such as Requiem for a Dream (2000), further bolstered her financial status, as well as the Golden Globe she received for her role in the same film. In an era where top actors often command multi-million dollar salaries, Ellen’s consistent box-office appeal has allowed her to earn substantial paychecks over the years.
Career in Theater and Its Contribution to Her Wealth
Although Ellen is best known for her film and television work, her theater career has been equally important in shaping her wealth. Her performance in Same Time, Next Year earned her a Tony Award and a subsequent film adaptation.
As with her film roles, her theater performances paid dividends through ticket sales, endorsements, and royalties. Broadway actors like Ellen often receive a portion of the ticket proceeds, adding to their total income.
Given the limited number of theater roles that can pay as much as Hollywood productions, Ellen’s ability to secure prestigious stage roles and to transition successfully between stage and screen has enhanced both her financial portfolio and her legacy in the entertainment world.
Television Appearances and Their Earnings
Ellen’s television career has been another critical component in her financial story. She starred in the hit HBO series Big Love, where she portrayed an important role for several seasons, contributing to a lucrative salary. Beyond this, she appeared in major television shows such as Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, where she won an Emmy Award for her guest role.
Television roles often pay well, especially for established stars like Ellen. In addition to the upfront salaries, the success of shows like Big Love can also lead to syndication deals, residuals, and future opportunities for higher-profile roles.
Lifestyle and How It Reflects Her Financial Success
Ellen’s lifestyle provides insight into her financial success. She resides in a luxurious home in New York’s Hudson Valley, a property purchased for $750,000 in 1989. This home, along with her other real estate investments, reflects her long-term financial planning and stable income.
Despite her fame and wealth, Ellen has led a relatively private lifestyle, shying away from the excessive display of wealth that some Hollywood celebrities are known for. She appears to prefer investing in quality over quantity, with a focus on enduring assets like property and long-term projects.
The Challenges Ellen Burstyn Has Faced in Managing Her Finances
Despite a successful career, Ellen has faced financial challenges throughout her life. Her multiple divorces, particularly from her second husband Paul Roberts, who was instrumental in her adoption of her son, Jefferson, may have taken a financial toll. However, her ability to manage finances and bounce back after personal hardships shows her resilience.
Ellen’s financial strategy seems to involve investing wisely and not letting personal struggles dictate her professional decisions. She has maintained financial stability throughout her career and continues to remain a respected figure in the industry.
Career Achievements and Their Financial Impact
Ellen Burstyn’s extensive list of awards and nominations—including an Academy Award, Golden Globe, and Tony Award—has not only cemented her legacy as a talented actress but also contributed to her financial success. With each award came opportunities for bigger and better roles, which translated into increased earnings and financial security.
Her legacy as an actress who is not only talented but also strategic in choosing roles and projects has made her a respected figure in Hollywood. These achievements have led to an enduring career with sustained financial rewards.
Future Projects and Potential Earnings
While Ellen Burstyn has been in the industry for decades, her future remains bright. With upcoming roles in film and television, she continues to find new avenues to expand her wealth. Her involvement in major Hollywood franchises, including the possibility of a The Exorcist sequel, could prove financially rewarding, securing her wealth for years to come.
Ellen’s career trajectory suggests that she is not just relying on her past successes but is also strategically positioning herself for future earnings, proving her financial foresight.
Conclusion
Ellen Burstyn’s net worth of $20 million reflects a life of hard work, incredible talent, and wise financial decisions. From major film roles to television success, she has secured her place as a well-rounded entertainment mogul.
For more updates on the financial lives of celebrities, visit AndoMoney.com. Leave a comment, share, or explore more fascinating articles about your favorite stars!
