Meg Ryan Net Worth

Overview

Meg Ryan, born Margaret Mary Emily Anne Hyra on November 19, 1961, is an American actress celebrated for her leading roles, particularly in romantic comedies, during the 1980s and 1990s. Dubbed “America’s Sweetheart,” she became one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars. Ryan’s career began with television roles, including a stint on the soap opera ‘As the World Turns’ from 1982 to 1984. Her breakthrough came with the 1989 film ‘When Harry Met Sally…’, which catapulted her to international fame. She solidified her position as a leading actress in romantic comedies with films like ‘Sleepless in Seattle,’ ‘French Kiss,’ and ‘You’ve Got Mail.’ During the peak of her career, she earned between $10-15 million per film, making her one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood. Besides acting, Meg Ryan has also directed films. In 2015, she made her directorial debut with ‘Ithaca,’ and in 2023, she returned to the screen with ‘What Happens Later,’ which she also directed.

What Is Meg Ryan’s Net Worth?

Meg Ryan, born Margaret Mary Emily Anne Hyra on November 19, 1961, boasts a substantial net worth of $85 million. This impressive figure is primarily attributed to her successful acting career spanning over four decades, with significant earnings derived from romantic comedies during the 1980s and 1990s.

Meg Ryan’s Early Career and Rise to Fame

Ryan’s journey began with her studies in journalism at the University of Connecticut and New York University. To supplement her income during her college years, she engaged in commercial work and secured minor roles in soap operas. Upon joining the Screen Actors Guild, she adopted her mother’s maiden name, “Ryan,” as her professional surname. Her early roles included a memorable stint on the soap opera “As The World Turns” from 1982 to 1984. In 1982, she also starred in the series “One of the Boys”. A notable early role was in the film “Top Gun” (1986), where she played Goose’s wife. However, it was her role in the 1989 film “When Harry Met Sally…” that propelled her to international stardom.

Meg Ryan’s Salary Highlights and Peak Earnings

Meg Ryan commanded impressive salaries throughout her career, particularly during the 1990s and early 2000s. In 1994, she earned $5 million for her role in the historical drama “I.Q.”. By 1998, her salary had increased significantly, with $8.5 million earned for “City of Angels.” The same year, she received $10.5 million for starring opposite Tom Hanks in “You’ve Got Mail.” This brought her total earnings for 1998 to $19 million, solidifying her position as one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood. Adjusted for inflation, this is equivalent to earning $30 million today. In the early 2000s, she earned $15 million per film for “Proof of Life” (2000) and “Kate & Leopold” (2001). Between 1994 and 2002, Meg Ryan earned over $60 million in film salaries.

Meg Ryan’s Real Estate Portfolio

Meg Ryan has made several notable real estate transactions throughout her career. For many years, her primary residence was a Bel-Air mansion, which she listed for sale in 2009 for $14.2 million and eventually sold for $11.1 million. Years later, James Han purchased this home for $18.5 million. In 2006, she purchased a home on Chappaquiddick Island for $6.5 million, selling it in December 2019 for $11 million. In 2013, she acquired a 4,000 square-foot New York City loft for $4.625 million, selling it in 2017 for $9.85 million. The seller of this loft was “The Simpsons” voice actor Hank Azaria. In 2017, Ryan purchased a condo in New York City’s Tribeca neighborhood for $10 million. In February 2020, she bought a home in Montecito, California, for $5 million and undertook a major renovation. She sold this property in November 2021 for $13.3 million. In August 2021, Meg Ryan paid $9.5 million for a new home in Montecito.

Meg Ryan’s Filmography and Box Office Success

Meg Ryan’s filmography includes a diverse range of roles, though she is best known for her work in romantic comedies. Her films have grossed nearly $900 million at the box office, contributing significantly to her net worth. Notable films include “When Harry Met Sally…” (1989), “Sleepless in Seattle” (1993), “French Kiss” (1995), “You’ve Got Mail” (1998), “City of Angels” and “Kate & Leopold” (2001).

Meg Ryan’s Personal Life and Relationships

Meg Ryan was married to Dennis Quaid from 1991 to 2001, and they have a son named Jack. She has also been in a relationship with singer John Mellencamp since 2010, with periods of separation and engagement.