James Drury, best known for his iconic role in The Virginian, captured the hearts of fans during his long-running TV career. But what about his wealth and finances?
n this article, we’ll break down James Drury net worth in 2025, how much he made during his career, and what he left behind financially.
From The Virginian to his various other ventures, we’ll explore how this TV legend managed his finances and where his wealth came from.
James Drury Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | James Child Drury Jr. |
| Popular Name | James Drury |
| Birth Date | April 18, 1934 |
| Age | 85 (Died: April 6, 2020) |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | University of California, Los Angeles, New York University |
| Marital Status | Widowed |
| Spouse | Carl Ann Head (m. 1979–2019), Phyllis Mitchell (m. 1968–1979), Cristall Orton (m. 1957–1964) |
| Children | 2 sons (including Timothy Drury), 1 stepdaughter, 2 stepsons |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | James Drury, Sr. |
| Height | 1.82 meters |
| Net Worth | $1.5 million (at the time of his death) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting |
What is the Net Worth of James Drury in 2025?
As of 2025, James Drury’s net worth is estimated at $1.5 million, based on reports from around the time of his death in 2020.
While this amount may seem modest compared to some of his peers, it reflects the wealth he accumulated over years of hard work in the television industry.
Drury’s iconic role as the lead in The Virginian helped cement his status as a household name, likely playing a major role in his financial legacy.
When compared to other actors from similar Western TV series or television legends, Drury’s net worth aligns with those who, while not amassing massive earnings outside of their most famous roles, still managed to build enduring careers in the entertainment industry.
People Associated with James Drury:
- Chuck Norris
- Clint Eastwood
- Steve McQueen
- Lee Marvin
- John Wayne
For more on the wealth of famous personalities, check out our article on the richest celebrities.
James Drury Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Did James Drury Earn from His Acting Career?
James Drury’s wealth was largely built through his extensive career in television and film. Best known for his role in The Virginian, Drury starred in over 200 episodes, making it one of the most successful western series of the era.
As the lead actor, it’s likely that Drury’s salary for The Virginian was substantial, though exact figures aren’t available. .
In addition to The Virginian, Drury made guest appearances in various TV shows, increasing his visibility and earnings.
Shows like Gunsmoke, Rawhide, and Wagon Train gave him a platform that extended well beyond his primary role.
What Were His Main Sources of Income?
James Drury’s main sources of income stemmed from his acting career. While he was most well-known for The Virginian, he appeared in numerous films and TV shows throughout his career, which helped secure his financial future.
TV Appearances: Beyond The Virginian, Drury made appearances in popular shows such as Wagon Train, Gunsmoke, and The Big Valley. These roles likely paid well, especially given the popularity of westerns at the time.
Films and Movies: Drury also participated in films, although his filmography was not as extensive as his TV career. These films likely brought in additional income, though most of his wealth came from television work.
Royalties from The Virginian: Given the ongoing syndication of The Virginian, it is likely that Drury earned a significant amount from royalties, which helped keep his financial status stable long after the show ended.
Did James Drury Make Money from The Virginian TV Series?
The Virginian was a defining part of James Drury’s career, and it undoubtedly played a major role in his financial success.
As the lead actor in the series for almost a decade, Drury’s salary was likely substantial. While there is no specific figure available for his per-episode pay, The Virginian was a massive success and likely garnered significant earnings for Drury during its original run.
Additionally, The Virginian continues to be a beloved show, generating income for its cast members through royalties and syndication.
This long-lasting popularity would have kept Drury’s income flowing from the show years after its original air date.
Drury’s legacy in the western TV genre undoubtedly played a key role in maintaining his financial position.
What Was James Drury’s Financial Legacy?
James Drury’s financial legacy is tied to the success of The Virginian and his long-standing career in Hollywood.
While not considered one of the wealthiest celebrities, his legacy in television, particularly in the western genre, remains significant.
He lived a comfortable life, and his wealth allowed him to enjoy a steady income, even after retiring from acting.
Upon his passing in 2020, it’s possible that Drury left behind a modest estate, though details on his assets or inheritance have not been publicly disclosed.
Conclusion
James Drury’s career in television, particularly through The Virginian, left a lasting financial legacy that secured his place as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
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