Net Worth Ranker
What Is Delta Burke’s Net Worth?
Delta Burke, a multifaceted American talent known for her work as an actress, author, and producer, boasts a net worth of $8 million. This figure represents the combined assets she shares with her husband, actor Gerald McRaney, whom she married in 1989. Delta Burke’s financial standing primarily stems from her extensive career in television and film, as well as her ventures into fashion and authorship. Her net worth reflects her long-standing success and diversification of income streams.
Delta Burke: A Career Overview
Delta Burke’s career spans several decades, marked by numerous memorable roles and creative projects. Her most iconic role remains Suzanne Sugarbaker on the CBS series “Designing Women” (1986–1991), which garnered her two Primetime Emmy nominations. This role significantly boosted her profile and contributed to her early financial success. Her extensive filmography includes appearances in movies such as “Sordid Lives” (2000), “What Women Want” (2000), and “Hansel & Gretel” (2002), showcasing her versatility as an actress.
In addition to her work in television and film, Delta Burke has also ventured into producing. She served as a producer on projects such as “Delta” (1992–1993) and “Women of the House” (1995), further contributing to her income. Her involvement in producing roles highlights her business acumen and expands her financial portfolio beyond acting alone.
Delta’s talent extends to the stage as well. She graced Broadway with her performances in “Thoroughly Modern Millie” (2003–2004) and “Steel Magnolias” (2005). Her Broadway appearances demonstrate her diverse skill set and provide additional revenue streams from live performances. These stage roles not only enriched her career but also enhanced her overall financial stability.
Moreover, Delta Burke demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit by launching the clothing company Delta Burke Design in 1994. The company aimed to offer “real clothes for real women,” catering to a specific market segment. Although specific financial details regarding the success and revenue generated by this venture are not publicly available, it undoubtedly contributed to her overall net worth. She also authored “Delta Style: Eve Wasn’t a Size 6 and Neither Am I” in 1998, adding to her income through book sales and royalties.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on July 30, 1956, in Orlando, Florida, Delta Ramona Leah Burke’s early life laid the foundation for her future success. She attended Colonial High School, where her peers recognized her potential by voting her “Most Likely to Succeed.” Her journey began with local recognition when she was crowned Miss Flame by the Orlando Fire Department and later became State Miss Flame. In 1974, she won the Miss Florida pageant, gaining visibility and opportunities through the Miss America Organization.
The Miss America Organization awarded Delta a talent scholarship, enabling her to study at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art for two years. This education significantly contributed to her acting skills and career trajectory, providing her with formal training and exposure to the performing arts. Her time at the academy was an investment in her future, enhancing her abilities and preparing her for professional roles.
Delta Burke’s early career involved various small roles that gradually built her experience and reputation. In 1978, she had an uncredited role in the TV movie “Zuma Beach.” By 1979, she appeared in the television films “Charleston” and “A Last Cry for Help,” as well as the miniseries “The Seekers.” These early roles, though minor, were crucial stepping stones that led to more significant opportunities.
In 1980, she played Bonnie Sue Chisholm on the CBS series “The Chisholms.” Throughout the early 1980s, she guest-starred on shows such as “Nero Wolfe” (1981), “The Fall Guy” (1981–1982), “Fantasy Island” (1983), “Remington Steele” (1983), “The Love Boat” (1983–1984), “T. J. Hooker” (1984), and “Who’s the Boss?” (1985). These guest appearances increased her visibility and allowed her to hone her craft in diverse roles, setting the stage for her breakthrough in “Designing Women.”
From 1982 to 1983, Delta starred as Kathleen Beck on the CBS sitcom “Filthy Rich,” and from 1984 to 1987, she played Diane Barrow on HBO’s “1st & Ten.” These roles provided her with consistent work and a platform to showcase her comedic talents, further solidifying her position in the entertainment industry. These experiences were pivotal in shaping her career and contributing to her financial stability.
“Designing Women” and Subsequent Career
Delta Burke’s role as Suzanne Sugarbaker on “Designing Women” from 1986 to 1991 was a turning point in her career. Starring alongside Dixie Carter, Annie Potts, Jean Smart, and Meshach Taylor, she gained widespread recognition and critical acclaim. The series became a cultural phenomenon, and her portrayal of Suzanne Sugarbaker earned her two Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 1990 and 1992. While the exact salary figures from her time on “Designing Women” are not publicly available, it can be inferred that the success of the show significantly boosted her earnings.
Despite the show’s success, internal conflicts led to Delta Burke’s departure from “Designing Women” in 1991. She later reconciled with Linda Bloodworth-Thomason, the show’s creator, and reprised the role of Suzanne Sugarbaker on the 1995 spin-off “Women of the House.” This return demonstrated her ability to move past professional challenges and continue her career. The spin-off provided her with further opportunities and additional income.
After “Designing Women,” Delta continued to work steadily in television and film. She hosted “Saturday Night Live” in 1991, a high-profile opportunity that showcased her comedic talents to a national audience. She also appeared in the TV movies “Love and Curses… And All That Jazz” (1991) and “Day-O” (1992). From 1992 to 1993, she starred as Delta Bishop on the ABC sitcom “Delta,” which, although short-lived, provided her with a lead role and further income.
In 1994, she voiced Viola the toucan on the Family Channel series “The Mighty Jungle.” She guest-starred on shows like “Diagnosis: Murder” (1994), “Touched by an Angel” (1996; 2001), “Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman” (1996), and “Promised Land” (1996). In 1997, she played the title role in the TV movie “Melanie Darrow.” These various roles, both large and small, contributed to her sustained career and financial stability.
From 1999 to 2001, Delta had a recurring role as Cherry Cherry on The WB’s “Popular.” In 2000, she appeared in the films “Sordid Lives” and “What Women Want,” and from 2000 to 2001, she co-starred with David Alan Grier on the NBC sitcom “DAG.” She also appeared in TV movies such as “Dangerous Child” (2001), “Going For Broke” (2003), and “The Year Without a Santa Claus” (2006), as well as the 2002 film “Hansel & Gretel.” These projects diversified her income streams and allowed her to remain active in the entertainment industry. Delta Burke’s consistent presence in various television shows and films highlights her sustained career and contributes significantly to her overall net worth.
From 2006 to 2007, she had a recurring role as Bella Horowitz on ABC’s “Boston Legal.” She guest-starred on “Drop Dead Diva” in 2009, and in 2019, she appeared on the Netflix anthology series “Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings.” These more recent roles demonstrate her continued relevance and ability to secure acting opportunities, contributing to her ongoing financial success.
Personal Life and Real Estate
Delta Burke married Gerald McRaney on May 28, 1989, marking a significant milestone in her personal life. She is stepmother to his children, Kate, Jessica, and Angus. Her personal life, while not directly impacting her net worth, provides a backdrop to her career and financial decisions.
In 2001, Delta and Gerald purchased a 3,610 square foot home in Studio City, California, for $800,000. This real estate investment is a tangible asset that contributes to their combined net worth. Today, the five-bedroom, six-bathroom home is estimated to be worth $3 million, reflecting a significant appreciation in value over the years. This real estate investment demonstrates sound financial planning and contributes to their overall wealth.
The couple has also owned homes in New Orleans, Louisiana, and Telluride, Colorado. While specific details about these properties, such as addresses and purchase prices, are not publicly available, these real estate holdings further contribute to their asset portfolio. Owning multiple properties indicates a diversified approach to wealth management and investment.
Awards, Nominations, and Other Ventures
Delta Burke’s talent has been recognized through numerous awards and nominations. In addition to her two Primetime Emmy nominations for “Designing Women,” the show earned her Viewers for Quality Television Award nominations for Best Actress in a Quality Comedy Series in 1989, 1990, and 1991. These accolades enhance her reputation and increase her marketability, indirectly contributing to her financial success.
In 1999, she won an Online Film & Television Association Award for Best Guest Actress in a Cable Series for “Any Day Now.” In 2001, she received a “TV Guide” Award nomination for Actress of the Year in a New Series for “DAG.” These awards highlight her versatility and continued relevance in the entertainment industry, helping her secure further roles and opportunities. The recognition from these awards has likely aided her in negotiating contracts and commanding higher fees for her work.
