Net Worth Ranker
What Is Ed Sullivan’s Net Worth?
At the time of his death on October 13, 1974, Ed Sullivan, the iconic American television personality, reporter, and syndicated columnist, had a net worth of $10 million. Adjusting for inflation, this sum is equivalent to approximately $60 million in today’s dollars. This substantial net worth reflects his successful career in media and entertainment, primarily as the creator and host of “The Ed Sullivan Show.”
Ed Sullivan’s Career and Earnings
Sullivan’s career began in journalism. After graduating from Port Chester High School, where he played football, basketball, and baseball, he joined the local newspaper, the Port Chester Daily Item. He further honed his skills at other newspapers, including the Hartford Post, the New York Evening Mail, and the Associated Press. In 1927, he became a sports writer for the Evening Graphic and later a sports editor. Sullivan’s transition to the Daily Mirror saw him taking on the role of a Broadway columnist, which marked a significant step in his career. Shortly thereafter, he joined the New York Daily News, enhancing his visibility and influence.
Sullivan’s early entry into show business included co-writing and starring in the 1933 comedy film “Mr. Broadway.” He then became an influential impresario, launching the careers of numerous stars and producing vaudeville shows. His initial foray into television came in 1941 as the host of CBS’s “Summer Silver Theater.” In the early 1950s, Ed Sullivan was earning a salary of $164,000 per year. After adjusting for inflation that’s the same as earning around $2 million per year in today’s dollars. In 1954 Ed signed a 22-year contract extension with CBS that covered his hosting as well as producing duties.
“The Ed Sullivan Show,” originally called “Toast of the Town,” premiered in 1948 and ran until 1971. Despite initial criticism, the show became a cornerstone of American television, setting the record as the longest-running variety show in US television history. At its peak, the show attracted approximately 50 million viewers each week. The show provided a platform for a diverse range of performers, from vaudeville acts and comedians to singers and theatrical actors. It also featured the popular puppet Topo Gigio. Sullivan’s show famously hosted Elvis Presley in 1956 and the Beatles in February 1964, with the latter episode becoming the most-watched television broadcast at the time. The show also featured pioneering appearances by such artists as Bo Diddley, the Platters, Fats Domino, Jackie Wilson, and the Supremes.
Ed Sullivan’s Personal Life and Additional Ventures
Sullivan’s personal life was also well-documented. He was engaged to champion swimmer Sybil Bauer, who passed away in 1927 before they could marry. He later married Sylvia Weinstein in 1930, and they had a daughter named Elizabeth. They resided at the Hotel Astor on Times Square and later rented a suite at the Hotel Delmonico. Sullivan and his wife were known for their active social life, often seen at trendy restaurants and clubs. In 1973, Sylvia passed away from an aortic rupture.
Sullivan made additional television appearances, including co-hosting the “General Foods 25th Anniversary Show: A Salute to Rodgers and Hammerstein” in 1954. He also appeared in an episode of “Mr. Adams and Eve” and as a mystery guest on “What’s My Line?” In the early 1960s, he filled in for Red Skelton on “The Red Skelton Show.” These appearances further contributed to his net worth and popularity.
Sullivan’s career was marked by several key milestones. He won a Golden Globe Award in 1959 for Television Achievement and was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960, located at 6101 Hollywood Blvd. These accolades reflect his significant contributions to the entertainment industry and underscore his enduring legacy. His net worth at the time of his death reflects not only his earnings from “The Ed Sullivan Show” and other ventures but also his investments and financial acumen.
