Melissa Gilbert has had a fascinating career filled with highs and lows, impacting both her public image and financial status. As an actress best known for her role in Little House on the Prairie, she has built a reputation in Hollywood, contributing significantly to her wealth.
Over the years, Gilbert has also faced challenges that have affected her earnings. As we dive deeper into Melissa Gilbert net worth, we’ll explore how her career achievements, financial struggles, and personal life have played a role in shaping her finances. I, Ando Money, will walk you through all the key details.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Melissa Ellen Gilbert |
| Popular Name | Melissa Gilbert |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | May 8, 1964 |
| Age | 60 (as of 2024) |
| Parents | Barbara Cowan, Paul Gilbert, Kathy Wood, David Darlington |
| Siblings | Sara Gilbert, Jonathan Gilbert |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Jewish |
| Education | The Buckley School |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Timothy Busfield (m. 2013), Bruce Boxleitner (m. 1995–2011), Bo Brinkman (m. 1988–1994) |
| Children | Dakota Brinkman, Michael Boxleitner |
| Dating History | Rob Lowe, Bo Brinkman |
| Net Worth | $500,000 |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Writing |
| Height | 5 ft 3 in (1.60 m) |
What is the Net Worth of Melissa Gilbert in 2024?
Melissa Gilbert‘s net worth in 2024 is estimated to be around $500,000. Despite a long and successful career in Hollywood, financial setbacks, including legal and tax issues, have impacted her overall wealth. Compared to other celebrities in her field, Gilbert’s net worth is modest.
However, her legacy as an actress and president of the Screen Actors Guild has kept her relevant in the entertainment world.
People Related to Melissa Gilbert:
- Rob Lowe
- Bruce Boxleitner
- Sara Gilbert
- Timothy Busfield
- Jonathan Gilbert
- Paul Gilbert
- Bo Brinkman
- Michael Landon
- Karen Grassle
- Lindsay Greenbush
Learn more about the richest actress in Hollywood today by visiting Ando Money.
Melissa Gilbert Salary and Finance Overview
Career Achievements That Boosted Her Earnings
Melissa Gilbert’s breakthrough role as Laura Ingalls Wilder on Little House on the Prairie propelled her to fame, providing a steady income throughout the show’s run. Her acting career continued with appearances in The Miracle Worker and The Diary of Anne Frank.
Gilbert has also voiced Batgirl in Batman: The Animated Series, expanding her income sources beyond live-action roles.
In addition to her on-screen work, Gilbert served as the president of the Screen Actors Guild from 2001 to 2005. This leadership role contributed to her earnings and solidified her status in Hollywood.
Challenges That Impacted Her Financial Standing
Despite her early success, Gilbert has faced significant financial challenges. She owes substantial amounts in back taxes to the IRS, including $360,000 in federal taxes and $112,000 in state taxes from California.
The tax issues, combined with financial obligations from divorces and a slowdown in acting roles, have negatively impacted her overall wealth.
In interviews, she has been candid about the financial difficulties she has encountered, linking them to a changing entertainment landscape and personal struggles. These financial challenges were compounded by a costly divorce settlement and health problems that required significant medical expenses.
Contributions From Real Estate and Other Investments
Gilbert’s real estate portfolio also reflects her financial journey. She once owned a home in Tarzana, California, which she sold in 2014.
Currently, she and her husband Timothy Busfield reside on a 14-acre property in the Catskill Mountains, purchased for $98,000 in 2019. Real estate remains a notable part of her financial life, although it doesn’t contribute significantly to her current wealth.
Awards and Honors That Contributed to Her Reputation
Melissa Gilbert’s professional accolades, including her two Young Artist Awards for Little House on the Prairie and her Emmy nomination for The Miracle Worker, have reinforced her reputation in Hollywood.
Although awards don’t directly contribute to wealth, they have helped maintain her status as a respected actress, ensuring continued opportunities in the industry.
Her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, awarded in 1985, and her induction into the Western Performers Hall of Fame in 1998 are testaments to her lasting impact in entertainment. These honors, while symbolic, help Gilbert maintain her visibility, indirectly supporting her financial life through ongoing recognition and opportunities.
Writing and Public Speaking
Aside from acting, Gilbert has published memoirs and books, which have contributed to her income. Her memoir Prairie Tale has been well received, along with other works like My Prairie Cookbook. In addition to writing, she is a sought-after public speaker, discussing her life, career, and personal struggles.
These activities offer additional income streams, diversifying her financial base.
FAQs About Melissa Gilbert
What is Melissa Gilbert’s most famous role?
She is best known for playing Laura Ingalls Wilder on Little House on the Prairie from 1974 to 1983.
Who is Melissa Gilbert married to?
She has been married to actor Timothy Busfield since 2013.
How many children does Melissa Gilbert have?
She has two sons, Dakota Brinkman and Michael Boxleitner.
Has Melissa Gilbert won any major awards?
Yes, she has won two Young Artist Awards and has received an Emmy nomination for her performance in The Miracle Worker.
What are Melissa Gilbert’s financial challenges?
Melissa Gilbert has faced significant financial struggles, including owing back taxes to the IRS and financial issues related to divorce settlements.
How has Melissa Gilbert’s real estate contributed to her wealth?
She has owned several properties, including a home in Tarzana, California, and currently lives on a 14-acre property in New York’s Catskill Mountains.
What leadership roles has Melissa Gilbert held?
She served as the president of the Screen Actors Guild from 2001 to 2005.
Did Melissa Gilbert ever run for political office?
Yes, she briefly ran for U.S. Congress in Michigan in 2016, but withdrew due to health issues.
What books has Melissa Gilbert written?
She has authored several books, including her memoir Prairie Tale and My Prairie Cookbook.
What health challenges has Melissa Gilbert faced?
She has undergone multiple surgeries, including a procedure to fuse a vertebra in her lower spine, and has openly discussed her struggles with addiction and misophonia.
Conclusion
Feel free to share your thoughts, comments, and experiences about Melissa Gilbert’s journey with us! For more insights, head over to Ando Money and explore our in-depth articles on celebrity finances.
