Net Worth Ranker
What Was Buddy Ebsen’s Net Worth?
At the time of his death in 2003, Buddy Ebsen, a multifaceted American actor, dancer, author, and producer, had a net worth estimated at $6 million. This figure represents the culmination of a long and successful career spanning various facets of the entertainment industry. Ebsen’s primary sources of income were his acting roles, notably his iconic portrayal of Jed Clampett on “The Beverly Hillbillies” (1962–1971) and his starring role as Barnaby Jones on “Barnaby Jones” (1973–1980).
Detailed Look at Buddy Ebsen’s Career and Earnings
Ebsen’s acting career comprised over 100 credits, encompassing films, television movies, and series. His early film appearances included roles in “The Kid from Texas” (1939) and “Sing Your Worries Away” (1942), contributing to his initial earnings in the industry. Later, he appeared in “Night People” (1954) and the classic “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961), further solidifying his presence in Hollywood. His work in television movies such as “The Daughters of Joshua Cabe” (1972) and “The President’s Plane is Missing” (1973) added to his income stream. “The Beverly Hillbillies,” which aired for nine seasons (274 episodes) on CBS, was a significant source of income for Ebsen, with residuals and syndication royalties continuing to contribute long after the show’s original run. Furthermore, his lead role in “Barnaby Jones,” which spanned eight seasons (178 episodes), provided substantial earnings throughout the 1970s.
Beyond acting, Ebsen was also a published author. He wrote “Polynesian Concept” (1972), “The Other Side of Oz” (1994), “Kelly’s Quest” (2000), and “Sizzling Cold Case: The Legend of Lori London, a Barnaby Jones Novel” (2006). While the specific sales figures for these books are not publicly available, they undoubtedly contributed to his overall income. He also released three music albums: “Buddy Ebsen Says Howdy” (1965), “The Beverly Hillbillies” (1966), and “Buddy’s Originals” (2001). The financial success of these albums would have varied, with “The Beverly Hillbillies” album likely seeing higher sales due to the show’s popularity. Ebsen’s career began on Broadway, where he performed in productions such as “Whoopee!” (1928–1929), “Flying Colors” (1932–1933), “Ziegfeld Follies of 1934,” “Yokel Boy” (1939–1940), and “Show Boat” (1946–1947). Though these were early roles, they established his credentials as a performer and contributed to his initial income.
Real Estate and Other Assets Contributing to Buddy Ebsen’s Net Worth
Buddy Ebsen owned a 4,482 square foot home on Balboa Island in California. The home, built in the mid-1960s, featured six bedrooms and four bathrooms. After his death, his children sold the property for $5 million in 2015. The fact that the property was sold for $5 million in 2015 indicates its significant value and contribution to his estate. The house was subsequently demolished in 2016 to make way for a new house. While details on Buddy Ebsen’s specific coin collection holdings are scarce, his collection included a four-dollar gold piece valued at $200,000, indicating a valuable asset contributing to his overall wealth. Ebsen’s association with the Beverly Hills Coin Club, which he co-founded in 1987, suggests that this was a serious hobby with potentially significant financial implications. In addition to these tangible assets, royalty payments and residuals from his extensive film and television work would have continued to contribute to his wealth even after the original broadcasts. These could be from TV reruns, DVD sales, and, more recently, streaming platforms. While specific figures are difficult to ascertain without access to his financial records, they would have formed a steady income stream.
Ebsen’s early career choices were shaped by financial necessity. He dropped out of college at the age of 20 because his family was experiencing financial difficulties, reportedly due to the end of the Florida land boom. His initial move to New York City in 1928, with less than $30, underscores the humble beginnings of his career. The formation of the dance act “The Baby Astaires” with his sister Vilma led to performances in Broadway musicals, providing early income and exposure. His near-casting as the Tin Man in “The Wizard of Oz” in 1939, though ultimately unrealized due to health issues caused by the aluminum dust in the makeup, highlights a significant missed opportunity that could have dramatically increased his fame and subsequent earnings. His military service in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II, while not directly contributing to his net worth, underscores a period of his life where he prioritized service over career advancement. Post-war, he resumed his acting career, taking on roles in films like “They Met in Argentina” (1941) and “Silver City Bonanza” (1951). His role as Sergeant Hunk Marriner on the NBC series “Northwest Passage” (1958-1959) represented a steady television role that helped build his resume and income.
The success of “The Beverly Hillbillies” catapulted him to widespread fame and financial security. Playing Jed Clampett not only brought him consistent income during the show’s run but also generated substantial residuals and syndication royalties for years to come. Around the same time as that role, Ebsen also appeared in films like “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961) and “The Interns” (1962). From 1973 to 1980, Buddy starred in the title role on the CBS detective series “Barnaby Jones.” The series aired 178 episodes over eight seasons, providing a steady income stream. His cameo as Barnaby Jones in the 1993 film adaptation of “The Beverly Hillbillies” demonstrated the enduring appeal of both characters. In addition to his film and TV work, Ebsen produced “The Paradise Connection,” further diversifying his income streams. While specific details about his personal investments are not publicly known, it’s reasonable to assume that Ebsen made investments in stocks, bonds, or other assets to secure his financial future. His final role was in an episode of the animated series “King of the Hill” in 1999, marking the end of his on-screen career.
Buddy Ebsen’s personal life also provides context to his financial decisions. His first marriage to Ruth Margaret McCambridge in 1933 ended in divorce in 1945, potentially involving financial settlements. His second marriage to Nancy Craft Wolcott in 1945 also ended in divorce in 1985, which might have impacted his assets. Finally, his marriage to Dorothy “Dotti” Knott in 1985 lasted until his death in 2003. Ebsen passed away on July 6, 2003, at the age of 95 from respiratory failure at California’s Torrance Memorial Medical Center. Buddy Ebsen earned Photoplay Award nominations for Favorite Comedy Star and Favorite TV Program for “The Beverly Hillbillies” in 1967, although awards don’t directly impact net worth, they can increase earning potential. In 1984, Buddy was honored with a Golden Boot at the Golden Boot Awards and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (Motion Picture category) in 1960 and on the St. Louis Walk of Fame in 1991.
