Net Worth Ranker
What Is Gates McFadden’s Net Worth
Gates McFadden, an accomplished American actress celebrated for her portrayal of Dr. Beverly Crusher in “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” has cultivated a substantial net worth through her multifaceted career. As of 2025, Gates McFadden’s net worth is estimated to be around $7 million. This financial standing is largely attributed to her consistent work in television, film, and theater, as well as her endeavors in choreography and teaching.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Cheryl Gates McFadden was born on March 2, 1949, in Akron, Ohio. Growing up in the nearby suburb of Silver Lake, she attended Old Trail High School, graduating in 1966. McFadden pursued her passion for theater at Brandeis University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre arts, graduating cum laude. Furthering her education, she studied under actor Jacques Lecoq at his physical theatre school in Paris. Her early career included teaching dance and theatre at institutions like Harvard University, George Washington University, and the University of Pittsburgh during the 1970s. Additionally, she established The New York Theatre Commotion. Her association with The Jim Henson Company involved choreographing and directing puppet movement for films such as “The Muppets Take Manhattan” and “Labyrinth.” She worked on this under the name Cheryl McFadden.
“Star Trek: The Next Generation” and Beyond
In 1987, Gates McFadden secured the role of Dr. Beverly Crusher in “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” a pivotal moment in her career that significantly contributed to Gates McFadden’s net worth. Despite initial clashes with head writer Maurice Hurley, which led to her departure after the first season, fan support and a request from Patrick Stewart facilitated her return in the third season. She continued in the role for the remainder of the series. Notable episodes featuring her character include “Remember Me,” “The High Ground,” “The Host,” “Suspicions,” “Attached,” “Sub Rosa,” and “Descent.” Beyond the series, McFadden reprised her role in all “TNG” movies, directed the seventh season episode “Genesis,” choreographed a dance routine in the season four episode “Data’s Day,” and provided voice work for PC games like “Star Trek Generations” and “Star Trek: A Final Unity.” Her continued association with the Star Trek franchise, including later roles in “Star Trek: Prodigy,” “Star Trek: Picard,” and the video game “Star Trek Online,” has further solidified her financial stability.
Film and Television Roles
McFadden’s career extends beyond “Star Trek” into various film and television roles. She co-starred with James Belushi in the 1980 comedy “Taking Care of Business” and played Catherine Ryan in “The Hunt for Red October.” In 1995, she starred in the TV series “Marker” and the movie “Crowned and Dangerous” in 1997. Later, she portrayed Allison Rourke in the sitcom “Mad About You” and appeared in Microsoft commercials starting in 2006. These roles, while varying in scale and prominence, have collectively contributed to Gates McFadden’s net worth by providing diverse income streams and exposure to different audiences.
Academic and Artistic Pursuits
Alongside her acting career, McFadden has maintained a presence in academia. She has taught at universities such as Harvard, Purdue, Temple, the Stella Academy in Hamburg, the University of Pittsburgh, and the University of Southern California, where she became an adjunct faculty member in 2010. As artistic director of Ensemble Studio Theatre/Los Angeles from 2009 to 2014, she spearheaded the creation of the Atwater Village Theatre Collective in Los Angeles. McFadden has also narrated several audiobooks, including “Confessor” (2010), and narrated and executive produced “The Center Seat: 55 Years of Star Trek.” These academic and artistic endeavors not only showcase her diverse talents but also supplement her income, adding to Gates McFadden’s net worth.
Television Appearances
In addition to her main roles, Gates McFadden has made guest appearances on several TV shows, including “The Practice,” “The Division,” “Party of Five,” “Franklin & Bash,” “Dream On,” “Marker,” “Dirty,” and “The Simpsons.” While specific figures for her earnings from these appearances are not publicly available, each role contributes incrementally to her overall income, supporting the growth of Gates McFadden’s net worth. These appearances also help maintain her visibility in the entertainment industry, potentially leading to further opportunities.
Theatre Productions
McFadden’s stage career includes performances in productions such as “The Taming of the Shrew,” “To Gillian on Her 37th Birthday,” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” She also worked as the Director of Choreography and Puppet Movement for the Jim Henson Company. While stage work may not be as financially lucrative as film or television, it provides a steady source of income and allows her to engage with her craft in a different way. This varied experience in theater contributes to the diversity of her skills and helps to stabilize Gates McFadden’s net worth over time.
Real Estate Investments
In December 1990, Gates McFadden invested $725,000 in a hilltop home in Los Angeles. The property has undergone significant renovations, and its current estimated value is between $4 million and $5 million. This real estate investment represents a substantial asset, contributing significantly to Gates McFadden’s net worth. Real estate, particularly in desirable locations like Los Angeles, can appreciate considerably over time, providing a solid financial foundation.
