Ever wondered how Gene Autry, the singing cowboy, amassed his wealth?
While his musical talent and acting career are legendary, his ventures beyond entertainment helped build a massive financial legacy.
Let’s take a deep dive into Gene Autry’s net worth, his business ventures, and how he became one of the wealthiest stars of his time.
Gene Autry Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Orvon Grover Autry |
| Popular Name | Gene Autry |
| Birth Date | September 29, 1907 |
| Age | 91 (Died October 2, 1998) |
| Birthplace | Tioga, Texas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Education | Dropped out of high school |
| Marital Status | Married (twice) |
| Spouse | Jackie Autry (m. 1981–1998), Ina Mae Spivey (m. 1932–1980) |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | 3 (Veda, Wilma, Dudley) |
| Parents | Elnora Ozment and Delbert Autry |
| Height | 1.75 m |
| Net Worth | ~$500 million |
| Source of Wealth | Music, Film, Television, Business Ventures, Real Estate |
What is the Net Worth Of Gene Autry in 2025?
Gene Autry’s wealth is still remembered long after his passing. With a diverse career spanning music, movies, and business, Autry’s net worth was estimated at $500 million at the time of his death (1998), adjusted for inflation. His real estate investments, ownership of the Anaheim Angels, and the sale of KTLA television station contributed significantly to his fortune. While many celebrities’ fortunes fluctuate, Autry’s legacy remains one of the richest in the entertainment industry.
In comparison to other iconic figures in entertainment, Gene Autry’s wealth still stands out. Stars like Roy Rogers, Clint Eastwood, and Will Rogers made their mark, but few diversified as successfully as Autry.
Here are some notable figures and entities related to Gene Autry:
- Roy Rogers
- Clint Eastwood
- Anaheim Angels
- KTLA Television
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Country Music Hall of Fame
- Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame
- Academy Award
- ProRodeo Hall of Fame
- Gene Autry Trail (Palm Springs)
For more insights into celebrity finances, check out the richest celebrities page.
Gene Autry Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
Career and How It Contributed to His Wealth
Gene Autry’s career was a perfect blend of music, film, and entrepreneurship. His rise to fame began as a singing cowboy in the 1930s, and his unique blend of country music and film solidified his place in history. Autry was one of the first country artists to star in major films, and his music was a staple on radio for years. He earned substantial income from his movies, which spanned over 90 films. His weekly CBS radio show and albums like “Back in the Saddle Again” brought in millions, making him a key figure in country music and film history.
His influence on Western culture also extended to his acting roles, where he often portrayed a heroic cowboy with his horse, Champion. His popularity allowed him to secure long-term deals with major studios, further boosting his earnings.
Business Ventures and Investments
Gene Autry’s wealth wasn’t just built from his entertainment career. In the 1960s, he made some savvy business decisions that would increase his fortune. Autry bought the Anaheim Angels in 1960, a decision that paid off significantly. He later sold part of the team to Walt Disney in 1995, but his business acumen continued to generate wealth.
Apart from sports, Autry also invested in real estate. One of his most significant investments was his Palm Springs estate, which was worth around $11 million when sold in 2020. He also owned several radio stations, and his business empire expanded further with the acquisition of KTLA television station for $245 million in 1982.
Autry’s diverse portfolio in entertainment, media, and real estate proved to be a financial triumph.
Earnings from Music and Television
Gene Autry’s music career was nothing short of revolutionary. By the 1930s, his singing cowboy persona had taken the country music scene by storm. He sold over 100 million records and became one of the first country artists to achieve gold-certified status. Hits like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”, “Here Comes Santa Claus”, and “Up on the House Top” remain timeless Christmas classics that have continued to generate income even after his death.
In addition to music, his television career also played a role in his fortune. The Gene Autry Show, which aired from 1950 to 1956, was a massive hit. It was one of the first TV series that revolved around a singing cowboy, and it helped solidify his status as a household name. The show ran for 91 episodes and further increased his earnings, particularly in syndication.
Financial Legacy After His Death
Gene Autry’s death in 1998 didn’t mark the end of his financial legacy. His estate continued to manage his business interests, including the sale of the Anaheim Angels and his real estate holdings. His widow, Jacqueline Ellam, sold their Palm Springs estate for $7 million in 2020, though it’s worth more today.
The Gene Autry Memorial Interchange in Los Angeles and landmarks like Gene Autry Way in Anaheim keep his name alive, underscoring the lasting impact of his financial and cultural contributions. Through the sale of his assets and continued royalties from his music, Gene Autry’s financial legacy continues to grow, even after his death.
Conclusion
Gene Autry’s financial success was built through a combination of talent, business savvy, and vision.
His diverse ventures in music, film, sports, and real estate solidified his place as one of the wealthiest and most influential figures in entertainment.
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