Mary McDonnell, a highly respected actress known for roles in Battlestar Galactica and Dances with Wolves, has had a prolific career. Her financial success comes not only from her acting roles but also from smart salary negotiations and long-term TV roles.
In this article, we’ll explore Mary McDonnell net worth, her salary from major projects, and how her career achievements have contributed to her wealth. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes her stand out in Hollywood, from her paychecks to her career-defining performances.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Mary Eileen McDonnell |
| Popular Name | Mary McDonnell |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | April 28, 1952 |
| Age | 72 (as of 2024) |
| Parents | John Jack McDonnell, Eileen |
| Siblings | 5 siblings |
| Birthplace | Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Irish descent |
| Education | State University of New York at Fredonia |
| Marital Status | Separated |
| Spouse | Randle Mell (Separated 2021) |
| Children | 2 (Michael, Olivia) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $12 million (2024) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (1.689m) |
What is the Net Worth Of Mary McDonnell in 2024?
Mary McDonnell’s net worth in 2024 is estimated at $12 million. This places her among other well-known Hollywood actresses with long-standing careers.
Compared to her peers, she has built her fortune steadily through significant TV roles like Major Crimes and Battlestar Galactica. Here’s a quick comparison of others in her field:
- Kevin Costner
- Edward James Olmos
- Patrick Swayze
- Kyra Sedgwick
- Emma Roberts
- Graham Greene
- Alison Brie
- Randle Mell
- Laura Roslin (fictional role)
- Tantoo Cardinal
For more information on wealth figures of prominent figures, check out the richest actresses on our website here.
Mary McDonnell Salary and Finance Overview
How She Built Her Wealth Through Acting
Mary McDonnell’s acting career spans over four decades. Her journey to fame began with roles in major films, including Dances with Wolves, for which she received an Academy Award nomination.
With her performance as Stands with a Fist, her earnings began to rise as the movie became a major success, drawing attention to her talent.
One of her most significant financial successes came from television. Her iconic role as President Laura Roslin in Battlestar Galactica brought her widespread recognition.
The show had a dedicated fanbase, which kept her in the spotlight for years. Transitioning from movies to television, McDonnell shifted her focus to long-term TV roles, where steady paychecks offered financial stability.
Salary from Major TV and Film Projects
McDonnell’s largest salary came from her role in Major Crimes, where she reportedly earned $125,000 per episode. This show ran from 2012 to 2018, making her one of the higher-paid TV actresses during this period.
Her earnings from Major Crimes alone brought in $2-3 million per season. This substantial income cemented her financial status in Hollywood.
Before Major Crimes, she also appeared in The Closer, where her role as Captain Sharon Raydor was well-received, eventually leading to the spin-off. Her guest appearances in shows like ER also added to her earnings, though not at the same level as her leading TV roles.
Awards and Nominations Contributing to Professional Recognition
Awards and nominations play a big role in increasing an actor’s visibility and potential salary. McDonnell has been nominated for two Academy Awards: once for Dances with Wolves and again for Passion Fish. These nominations significantly increased her value as an actress, allowing her to command higher salaries in future projects.
In addition to her Oscar nominations, McDonnell also received Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her work in television. While not every role earned her an award, the recognition undoubtedly contributed to her long-lasting career and financial success.
Contributions from Theater Performances to Her Wealth
Mary McDonnell’s acting career didn’t start on the screen; it started on stage. She was involved in theater for over 20 years, working with the Long Wharf Theatre Company.
One of her standout moments was winning the Obie Award in 1981 for her role in Still Life. While theater doesn’t typically pay as much as film or TV, it laid the foundation for her acting career and contributed to her overall wealth by enhancing her craft.
Endorsements, Sponsorships, and Additional Income Sources
While McDonnell’s primary source of income comes from acting, there have been mentions of additional earnings through public appearances, conventions, and interviews
. As a fan-favorite in sci-fi circles, particularly for her role in Battlestar Galactica, McDonnell has appeared at fan conventions, which can be lucrative for actors.
It’s also possible that McDonnell receives residuals from the syndication of shows like Battlestar Galactica and Major Crimes. Residuals from successful TV shows continue to provide income for years after the original airing.
Impact of Long Career on Her Financial Stability
Having a career that spans more than 40 years has given McDonnell a level of financial security that many actors don’t achieve. She has navigated both film and television industries successfully, continually adapting to new roles and challenges.
This long-term consistency is what has helped her build her $12 million net worth.
FAQs About Mary McDonnell
How did she become famous?
She became famous for her role as Stands with a Fist in Dances with Wolves, which earned her an Academy Award nomination.
What TV shows has she starred in?
She has starred in Battlestar Galactica, The Closer, and Major Crimes.
Is she still acting?
Yes, as of 2023, she appeared in The Fall of the House of Usher on Netflix.
What awards has she been nominated for?
She has been nominated for two Academy Awards, multiple Emmys, and Golden Globes.
What is her educational background?
She attended the State University of New York at Fredonia.
Who is she married to?
She was married to Randle Mell, but they separated in 2021.
Does she have children?
Yes, she has two children, Michael and Olivia.
How tall is she?
She is 5 feet 6 inches (1.689 meters) tall.
What are her notable movie roles?
Her most notable roles include Dances with Wolves and Passion Fish.
Has she won any awards for her theater performances?
Yes, she won an Obie Award for her performance in Still Life.
Conclusion
Feel free to share your thoughts or comments on Mary McDonnell’s career and finances! For more articles like this, visit Ando Money’s website.
