Net Worth Ranker
What Is Jessica Lange’s Net Worth?
Jessica Lange, a celebrated American actress, has accumulated a net worth of approximately $20 million. This figure reflects her decades-long career in film, television, and theater, punctuated by numerous accolades and commercially successful projects.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Jessica Lange’s career took off after a brief stint in modeling following her time in Paris, where she studied mime theatre and worked as a dancer. Her first major role was in the 1976 remake of “King Kong,” which, despite initial mixed reviews, provided her entry into the Hollywood scene. Though specifics about her initial salary for “King Kong” aren’t publicly available, such roles typically provide a valuable platform for emerging actors, contributing to their future earning potential.
A turning point came when Bob Fosse cast her in “All That Jazz.” While the exact financial details of this role are undisclosed, being part of a Fosse production significantly elevated her profile within the industry. Her early work in the 1970s laid the foundation for her subsequent success, building her reputation and opening doors to more prominent roles.
Critical Success in the 1980s and 1990s
The 1980s marked a period of significant critical acclaim and commercial success for Lange. In 1981, she starred in “The Postman Always Rings Twice” alongside Jack Nicholson. This role increased her visibility and appeal. The following year, 1982, was particularly significant as she received Academy Award nominations for both “Frances” and “Tootsie.” While specific salary details for these films remain private, such high-profile roles are typically associated with substantial compensation packages for leading actors.
Winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for “Tootsie” in 1982 not only solidified her status but also likely increased her future earning potential. Her role in “Country” (1984), which she also produced, further demonstrated her commitment to impactful storytelling. Although financial details about her producing role are not public, producers often receive a percentage of a film’s profits in addition to their salary.
In 1985, Lange earned another Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Patsy Cline in “Sweet Dreams.” Biopics of this nature can be lucrative, and while the precise figures are not available, her involvement undoubtedly contributed to her financial standing. Subsequent roles in films such as “Crimes of the Heart” and “Music Box” continued to build her resume and income.
The 1990s brought continued success, starting with “Men Don’t Leave” and followed by roles in “Cape Fear” and “Night and the City,” both alongside Robert De Niro. In 1994, she won her second Academy Award for “Blue Sky,” where she portrayed a manic-depressive army wife. This accolade further enhanced her marketability and prestige within the film industry. Roles in “Losing Isaiah,” “Rob Roy,” and “Cousin Bette” added to her consistent stream of income throughout the decade. Playing Tamora, Queen of the Goths, in the 1999 adaptation of “Titus” rounded out a successful decade.
Continued Film and Television Work in the 2000s and Beyond
In the 2000s, Jessica Lange diversified her career, taking on supporting roles in films like “Prozac Nation” (2001), “Big Fish” (2003), and “Broken Flowers” (2005). These roles, while not always leading ones, allowed her to remain active in the industry and supplement her income. Her filmography continued to expand with appearances in “The Vow” (2012), “The Gambler” (2014), and “Wild Oats” (2016).
A significant resurgence in her career occurred with her role in the FX anthology series “American Horror Story,” which she joined in 2011. This role was a critical and commercial triumph, earning her significant acclaim and numerous awards, including Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe. While the specific details of her contract with FX are confidential, leading roles in hit television series typically command high salaries per episode, which substantially boosted her earnings. For example, it’s plausible that Lange earned hundreds of thousands of dollars per episode during her tenure on “American Horror Story,” given her established reputation and the show’s success.
Her role in “Feud” (2017), where she played Joan Crawford opposite Susan Sarandon, was another high point in her television career. The series garnered critical acclaim and further awards nominations, contributing to her ongoing financial success. Guest appearances in later seasons of “American Horror Story” also added to her income.
Awards and Recognition
Jessica Lange’s career is marked by an impressive array of awards, including two Academy Awards (“Tootsie” and “Blue Sky”), three Primetime Emmy Awards (“Grey Gardens” and two for “American Horror Story”), one Tony Award (Long Day’s Journey into Night), five Golden Globe Awards (“Tootsie,” “O Pioneers!,” “A Streetcar Named Desire,” and two for “American Horror Story”), and one Screen Actors Guild Award (“American Horror Story”). These accolades not only recognize her artistic achievements but also contribute to her marketability and earning potential.
Real Estate Investments
While specific details about Jessica Lange’s real estate holdings are not widely publicized, it is common for high-net-worth individuals to invest in property. Like many celebrities, Lange likely owns one or more residences. These properties can serve as both personal residences and investment assets, contributing to her overall net worth. Without precise details, it is difficult to assess the exact value of her real estate holdings, but it is reasonable to assume that they form a significant part of her investment portfolio.
Personal Life and Background
Born on April 20, 1949, in Cloquet, Minnesota, Jessica Lange’s personal life has intersected with her professional journey in various ways. Her marriage to Spanish photographer Francisco Grande in 1970 ended in divorce in 1982. During their separation, she was involved with Russian ballet dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov, with whom she had a daughter. Her subsequent relationship with playwright Sam Shepard, with whom she had two children, lasted for many years before ending in 2009. These relationships, while personal in nature, have shaped her life experiences and informed her artistic work. The financial aspects of these relationships, such as settlements or shared assets, remain private.
Summary of Jessica Lange’s Net Worth
In summary, Jessica Lange’s $20 million net worth is primarily derived from her extensive and successful acting career in film and television. Her early roles in the 1970s provided a foundation for her breakthrough successes in the 1980s and 1990s. Award-winning performances in films like “Tootsie” and “Blue Sky” cemented her status as a leading actress, contributing significantly to her earnings. Her resurgence in television with “American Horror Story” and “Feud” further boosted her income and popularity. While detailed financial information about her contracts and investments remains private, her consistent presence in high-profile projects over several decades underscores her sustained financial success.
