Michele Carey was an iconic actress who left a significant mark on Hollywood. Her fame skyrocketed in the 1960s and 70s with standout roles in films like El Dorado alongside John Wayne. But how did her successful career translate into financial success?
In this article, I, Ando Money, will dive into Michele Carey net worth, exploring her key roles, career highlights, and the factors contributing to her financial legacy.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Michele Lee Henson |
| Popular Name | Michele Carey |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | February 26, 1942 |
| Age (at death) | 76 years old (Died: November 21, 2018) |
| Parents | Stanley Willard Henson Jr., Thelma Burnell Henson |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Birthplace | Annapolis, Maryland, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | High school graduate, piano prodigy |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Fred G. Strebel (1999–2011) |
| Children | One son, Kevin Troy Schwanke |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $5 million (estimated) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Modeling |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (1.65 m) |
What is the Net Worth of Michele Carey in 2024?
As of 2024, Michele Carey net worth is estimated at $5 million. While she may not have amassed the fortunes of some of her peers, her career in Hollywood was still quite lucrative, especially during the peak of her acting roles.
Compared to other stars of her era, Michele Carey’s financial legacy reflects a steady and successful career in the entertainment industry. Here are a few names related to her career:
- John Wayne
- Elvis Presley
- Frank Sinatra
- Robert Mitchum
- Angie Dickinson
- Howard Hawks
- Fred G. Strebel
- Brian Keith
- Kevin Troy Schwanke
- James Caan
For those curious about how other famous actresses compare, check out our list of the richest actresses.
Michele Carey Salary and Finance Overview
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Michele Carey was born in Annapolis, Maryland, and displayed immense talent from an early age. At just 13, she won a national piano contest and performed with the Rochester Symphony Orchestra.
This early success set the tone for her discipline and dedication in the years to come. After moving to Los Angeles, she began a modeling career, which soon transitioned into acting. By the mid-1960s, Michele had already caught the attention of Hollywood producers, leading to her breakthrough roles.
These early career moves played a significant role in her financial stability, especially as she moved from modeling into more lucrative acting opportunities.
Key Roles and Career Highlights in Film and Television
Carey’s most notable role came in 1966 when she played Joey MacDonald in El Dorado alongside John Wayne. This role became a key part of her Hollywood legacy and contributed to her financial success
. She later starred in Live a Little, Love a Little (1968), working with Elvis Presley, which further boosted her visibility and income. Throughout her career, she took part in numerous TV shows, such as Mission: Impossible and The Man from U.N.C.L.E., earning steady income as a guest star.
Collaborations with Prominent Hollywood Figures
Throughout her career, Michele Carey worked with Hollywood legends. Her collaborations with John Wayne, Elvis Presley, and Frank Sinatra not only elevated her status in the industry but also helped her secure more prominent roles and bigger paychecks.
These relationships were pivotal in expanding her career, leading to more financially rewarding opportunities.
Awards, Achievements, and Career Recognition
While Carey didn’t receive a plethora of awards, her success in landing significant roles during Hollywood’s golden age speaks volumes about her talent and financial achievements.
Her role in El Dorado remains a highlight, showcasing her ability to hold her own alongside seasoned stars. This success helped build the foundation of her wealth, as she consistently worked in both films and television during her prime years.
Marital Relationships and Their Impact on Her Financial Life
Michele Carey’s financial situation was also influenced by her marriages. Most notably, her last marriage to Fred G. Strebel, a successful businessman, provided financial security.
Living in affluent areas like Hillsborough and Rancho Mirage reflected the couple’s wealth. Strebel’s passing in 2011 left Carey with a sizable estate, contributing further to her financial stability in her later years.
Retirement from Acting and Later Years
In 1984, Michele Carey decided to retire from acting, but she made a brief comeback in the 1986 film In the Shadow of Kilimanjaro. During her retirement, she focused more on her personal life, and her financial well-being was secured by both her acting income and her marriage to Strebel.
Even though she stepped away from Hollywood, her legacy, along with her financial contributions, continued to grow.
FAQs About Michele Carey
Where was she born?
She was born in Annapolis, Maryland, USA.
Who was she married to?
Michele Carey was married to Fred G. Strebel, her last husband, from 1999 until his death in 2011.
Did she have children?
Yes, Michele Carey had one son, Kevin Troy Schwanke, who unfortunately passed away before her.
What was her most famous role?
Her most famous role was as Joey MacDonald in the 1966 Western film El Dorado.
When did she retire from acting?
Michele Carey retired from acting in 1984, though she briefly returned for a final film in 1986.
Did she win any awards for her acting?
Michele Carey didn’t win any major acting awards but earned recognition for her roles in El Dorado and other Hollywood films of the 60s and 70s.
What was her source of wealth?
Her wealth came primarily from her acting career, with additional financial security from her marriage to Fred G. Strebel.
Did she collaborate with famous actors?
Yes, Michele Carey worked with renowned actors like John Wayne, Elvis Presley, and Frank Sinatra.
Where did she live in her later years?
Michele Carey lived in Hillsborough and Rancho Mirage, California, with her husband, Fred G. Strebel.
Conclusion
I hope you found this exploration of Michele Carey’s career and financial journey insightful. Feel free to leave a comment, share the article, or explore more celebrity net worth content on Ando Money.
