Hollywood has seen many stars rise and fall, but few have left a lasting impact like Kim Darby. Best known for her role as Mattie Ross in True Grit, she built a career spanning decades in film and television. But how has this translated into financial success?
Many wonder about Kim Darby net worth in 2025. Did her Hollywood earnings set her up for life, or did financial struggles impact her wealth?
This article explores her career earnings, major roles, and financial standing.
Kim Darby Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Deborah Zerby |
| Popular Name | Kim Darby |
| Birth Date | July 8, 1947 |
| Age (as of 03/08/2025) | 77 |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Hungarian descent (maternal side) |
| Education | Van Nuys High School |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse(s) | James Stacy (m. 1968, div. 1969) James Westmoreland (m. 1970, div. 1970) Jack La Rue, Jr. (Unknown) William Tennant (Unknown) |
| Children | 1 (Heather Elias) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | Inga (Wiere) Zerby, Jon Zerby |
| Height | 1.63 meters |
| Net Worth | $500,000 |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Teaching |
What is the Net Worth Of Kim Darby in 2025?
As of 2025, Kim Darby’s net worth is estimated to be $500,000. While she achieved fame with True Grit, her earnings didn’t reach the levels of some of her co-stars like John Wayne or Glen Campbell. Her career declined after the 1970s, which impacted her financial stability.
Compared to other Hollywood veterans, her net worth is modest. However, she supplemented her income by teaching acting at UCLA.
Many other richest celebrities in Hollywood have seen their fortunes fluctuate over time.
People Related to Kim Darby:
- John Wayne
- Glen Campbell
- James Stacy
- Henry Winkler
- William Shatner
- Charles Portis
- James Westmoreland
- Hollywood film industry
- UCLA acting program
- Television networks
Kim Darby Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Did She Earn Her Wealth?
Kim Darby’s wealth came primarily from acting. She started her career in the 1960s, appearing in television shows and films. Her big break came in 1969 with True Grit, where she played Mattie Ross alongside John Wayne.
Although True Grit was a massive success, Darby did not capitalize on it as much as expected. She continued acting but struggled to maintain A-list status. By the 1980s and 1990s, she took on smaller roles and shifted to teaching.
What Were Her Highest-Paying Acting Roles?
Her biggest paycheck came from True Grit, but exact numbers remain undisclosed. Other financially significant roles include:
- The Strawberry Statement (1970)
- Better Off Dead (1985)
- The One and Only (1978)
- Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers (1995)
Television also provided financial stability. She appeared in Gunsmoke, Bonanza, The X-Files, and Murder, She Wrote.
Did She Make Money from Teaching Acting?
Yes. After her Hollywood career slowed down, Darby transitioned into teaching. She worked at UCLA’s extension program from 1992 to 2009, where she trained new actors.
Though teaching salaries are generally lower than acting salaries, it provided consistent income. Many actors supplement their income this way, ensuring financial stability despite a decline in on-screen roles.
How Did Her Career in Television Affect Her Finances?
Television played a crucial role in maintaining Kim Darby’s income. In the 1960s and 1970s, she was a regular guest star on popular series, which ensured a steady paycheck.
Key shows that contributed to her wealth include:
- Gunsmoke
- Bonanza
- The X-Files
- Murder, She Wrote
- Perception
While she didn’t land major recurring roles, consistent guest appearances provided financial support.
What Are Her Known Financial Challenges?
Despite her early success, Kim Darby faced financial instability. A few factors contributed to this:
- Career Decline – After True Grit, she struggled to find major roles.
- Short-Lived Marriages – Divorce settlements could have impacted her finances.
- Personal Struggles – Reports suggest she dealt with personal challenges that affected her work.
- No Major Royalties – Unlike modern actors, she likely did not receive high residuals from past work.
What Is Her Financial Legacy in Hollywood?
Kim Darby’s financial legacy is a mix of success and missed opportunities. While she starred in a legendary film, she did not leverage it into a long-term, high-earning career.
However, her work influenced Hollywood, especially in Western films. She also contributed to acting education, shaping new talents at UCLA. Her story is a reminder that fame doesn’t always translate to lifelong financial security.
Conclusion
Kim Darby’s journey through Hollywood showcases both success and struggles. Despite starring in True Grit, she did not accumulate massive wealth like some of her peers. However, she maintained a steady income through acting and teaching.
Want to read more about celebrity finances? Visit andomoney.com for in-depth financial breakdowns of Hollywood stars. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below!
