Did Judy Garland’s incredible career translate into long-term financial success? Despite earning millions as one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars, she faced severe financial struggles.
From high movie salaries to devastating tax debts, her finances were a rollercoaster ride. Keep reading to uncover how she made and lost her fortune.
Judy Garland Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Frances Ethel Gumm |
| Popular Name | Judy Garland |
| Birth Date | June 10, 1922 |
| Age | Died at 47 (June 22, 1969) |
| Birthplace | Grand Rapids, Minnesota, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Irish, English, Scottish, French Huguenot |
| Education | Attended Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) school |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | David Rose, Vincente Minnelli, Sidney Luft, Mark Herron, Mickey Deans |
| Children | Liza Minnelli, Lorna Luft, Joey Luft |
| Dating | Artie Shaw, Johnny Mercer, Tyrone Power, Orson Welles |
| Siblings | Mary Jane “Suzy/Suzanne” Gumm, Dorothy Virginia “Jimmie” Gumm |
| Parents | Ethel Marion Milne, Francis Avent Gumm |
| Height | 1.52 m |
| Net Worth | $40,000 at death (~$300,000 today) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Singing, Vaudeville |
What Is the Net Worth of Judy Garland in 2025?
Judy Garland’s net worth at the time of her death in 1969 was shockingly low—only $40,000, which is roughly $300,000 in today’s money. This was a stark contrast to the $10 million (inflation-adjusted to $100 million today) she earned throughout her career. However, due to poor financial management, tax debts, and excessive generosity, she ended up struggling financially.
Comparatively, some of her Hollywood peers managed their finances better. Shirley Temple, for example, transitioned into politics and preserved her wealth, while Frank Sinatra remained financially stable through investments and music royalties.
Other Notable People Related to Judy Garland:
- Frank Sinatra
- Liza Minnelli
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)
- Vincente Minnelli
- David Begelman
- Freddie Fields
- Capitol Records
- Sidney Luft
- Mark Herron
- Hollywood Golden Age Icons
Looking for insights into more Hollywood stars’ wealth? Explore our list of the most financially successful celebrities.
Judy Garland Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Money Did She Make in Her Career?
Judy Garland was one of the highest-paid actresses of her time. By the age of 18, she had already earned $400,000 (equivalent to $7.5 million today). Throughout her career, her total earnings amounted to nearly $10 million (~$100 million today).
Breakdown of Her Earnings:
- The Wizard of Oz (1939): Paid $500 per week, totaling $9,649 (~$190,000 today).
- Broadway Performances (1950s): Earned $15,000–$20,000 per week (~$163,000 today).
- The Ford Star Jubilee (1955): Paid $100,000.
- Final Film – I Could Go On Singing (1963): Earned $200,000 + 10% of profits.
- Music Royalties (1960s): $50,000–$80,000 per year (partially seized by the IRS).
What Were Her Highest-Paid Roles and Performances?
Despite being one of MGM’s biggest stars, Garland was often underpaid compared to her co-stars. For instance, her Wizard of Oz co-stars made $3,000 per week, while she only received $500 per week—earning less than even Toto the dog!
However, later in her career, she commanded higher paychecks. Her 1967 27-night show at the Palace Theater earned her $200,000, but most of this was seized by the IRS.
Why Did She Struggle Financially Despite Earning Millions?
Garland’s financial downfall was due to a combination of mismanagement, tax issues, and personal spending. Her agents Freddie Fields and David Begelman embezzled large sums, leaving her unaware of her growing debts.
Additionally, Hollywood’s studio system controlled her finances, limiting her ability to save and invest wisely. Combined with lavish generosity—she often loaned money to friends and family without repayment—her wealth quickly diminished.
How Did Tax Issues and Debt Affect Her Life?
By the late 1960s, Garland owed $500,000 to the IRS (~$4 million today). The IRS placed a tax lien on her Brentwood home, forcing her to sell it at a loss. She then lived in hotels, frequently leaving behind unpaid bills.
To cover debts, her music royalties from Capitol Records were garnished. This left her unable to secure stable housing in her final years.
Who Helped Her During Financial Hardships?
Despite her struggles, several people helped Garland financially:
- Liza Minnelli raised money to pay off her estate debts.
- Frank Sinatra personally contributed funds to settle outstanding balances.
- Over 500 of her personal items were auctioned, raising $250,000 (~$1 million today).
What Happened to Her Wealth After Her Death?
When Garland passed in 1969, her estate was left $4 million in debt. Her daughter Liza Minnelli stepped in, organizing estate auctions to cover outstanding balances.
Although her financial troubles were tragic, her legacy remains priceless. Her influence in music and film continues to inspire generations.
Conclusion
Judy Garland’s financial story is a cautionary tale of Hollywood’s pitfalls, financial mismanagement, and personal struggles.
Despite her earnings, she ended up in financial ruin. Want to explore more celebrity financial stories? Visit Andomoney for in-depth analysis!
