Jackie Gleason remains one of the most iconic entertainers in history, known for The Honeymooners and The Jackie Gleason Show. But beyond his legendary career, how did he build his fortune? From lucrative TV deals to music royalties and real estate investments, his financial journey was just as fascinating as his performances.
This article takes a deep dive into Jackie Gleason’s wealth, earnings, and financial decisions, showing how he earned and spent his millions.
Jackie Gleason Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Herbert Gleason Jr. |
| Popular Name | Jackie Gleason |
| Birth Date | February 26, 1916 |
| Age | 71 (Died: June 24, 1987) |
| Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Education | PS 73, John Adams High School, Bushwick High School (Did not graduate) |
| Marital Status | Married three times |
| Spouse | Marilyn Gleason (m. 1975–1987), Beverly McKittrick (m. 1970–1975), Genevieve Halford (m. 1936–1970) |
| Children | Two daughters, Geraldine and Linda (with Genevieve Halford) |
| Dating | Affair with Honey Merrill during a separation from first wife |
| Siblings | One older brother named Clement (who died at age 14) |
| Parents | Herbert Sr. and Mae Gleason |
| Height | 5 ft 9½ in (1.77 m) |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $10 million at the time of his death (equivalent to $25 million today, adjusting for inflation) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Music, Television, Film |
What is the Net Worth Of Jackie Gleason in 2025?
Jackie Gleason’s estimated net worth at the time of his passing in 1987 was $10 million, which would be approximately $25 million today when adjusted for inflation. While his earnings primarily came from television and film, his success in music and real estate significantly contributed to his wealth.
Compared to other entertainment legends like Frank Sinatra and Burt Reynolds, his fortune was impressive but not the highest in Hollywood. Many of his investments, including his famous UFO-inspired house, showcased his love for luxury and innovation.
Related Figures in Entertainment and Finance
- Frank Sinatra
- Burt Reynolds
- Paul Newman
- Art Carney
- Audrey Meadows
- CBS
- Capitol Records
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Brooklyn
- Pace University
For more insights on wealthy entertainers, check out this detailed breakdown of top earners.
Jackie Gleason Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Did He Earn Throughout His Career?
Jackie Gleason’s earnings spanned across multiple industries, making him a financially successful entertainer. His biggest paycheck came from CBS, where he signed contracts for The Jackie Gleason Show and The Honeymooners. At the peak of his career, he was among the highest-paid television personalities.
Beyond TV, he starred in hit films like The Hustler (alongside Paul Newman) and the Smokey and the Bandit trilogy with Burt Reynolds, earning substantial film salaries and residuals.
Additionally, his music career was a surprise success. His album Music for Lovers Only broke records by staying in the Billboard Top Ten for 153 weeks.
What Were His Biggest Financial Ventures?
Gleason’s wealth wasn’t solely built on acting. He invested in:
- Television Contracts – CBS paid him millions for his variety and sitcom deals.
- Music Royalties – His easy-listening albums sold millions of copies.
- Real Estate – His UFO House in New York was a multi-million-dollar investment.
- Business Ventures – He was involved in licensing and production deals for TV syndication.
How Did His Salary Compare to Other Stars of His Time?
Jackie Gleason’s earnings were on par with some of the biggest names in entertainment, but he wasn’t always the highest-paid. Compared to:
- Frank Sinatra, who made millions from both music and film, Gleason’s wealth was slightly lower.
- Paul Newman, who dominated Hollywood in the ’60s and ’70s, had a significantly higher net worth.
- Art Carney, his Honeymooners co-star, earned less due to fewer lead roles.
Despite this, Gleason’s financial impact was massive, particularly in television, where he revolutionized variety shows.
What Properties and Assets Did He Own?
His most famous property was the UFO House, a futuristic mansion in New York built in the 1950s. It featured:
- Circular architecture inspired by his love of UFOs.
- Imported Italian marble worth millions.
- High-tech features like a built-in sound system.
The home was later sold to CBS, then resold to Pace University, before ending up in private ownership.
How Did His Wealth Influence His Lifestyle?
Jackie Gleason was known for his lavish spending. He enjoyed:
- Hosting extravagant parties with Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra.
- Investing in custom-built homes and high-end cars.
- Spending freely on fine dining and entertainment.
While he wasn’t a reckless spender, he didn’t shy away from indulging in the Hollywood lifestyle.
What Happened to His Estate After His Passing?
When Jackie Gleason passed away in 1987, his wealth was distributed among his family and estate. Key details include:
- His UFO House changed ownership multiple times.
- CBS and Capitol Records continued to generate revenue from his past work.
- His financial legacy remains strong, with The Honeymooners still generating syndication revenue.
Conclusion
Jackie Gleason’s financial legacy extends far beyond his time on screen. From television contracts to music royalties and real estate, he built an empire that continues to generate interest today. Want to learn more about the wealth of entertainment icons? Explore more stories at andomoney.com.
