Net Worth Ranker
What Is Gavin MacLeod’s Net Worth?
At the time of his death on May 29, 2021, Gavin MacLeod, the celebrated American actor and honorary mayor of Pacific Palisades, possessed a net worth estimated at $10 million. MacLeod’s financial standing was primarily accumulated through his extensive career in television and film, spanning several decades. His most notable roles, Captain Merrill Stubing on “The Love Boat” and Murray Slaughter on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” significantly contributed to his wealth.
Gavin MacLeod’s Acting Career and Earnings
Gavin MacLeod’s journey in the entertainment industry commenced in the late 1950s, marking the beginning of a prolific career that would span several decades. His early work in television included an appearance in “The Walter Winchell File” in 1957. The following year, he secured an uncredited role in “The True Story of Lynn Stuart” before landing a credited role in “I Want to Live!” These initial roles served as a foundation for his subsequent successes.
MacLeod’s role in “Operation Petticoat” with Cary Grant and Tony Curtis catapulted him into the spotlight. Following “Operation Petticoat”, he continued to build his resume, appearing in comedies such as “High Time” alongside Bing Crosby and “The Party” with Peter Sellers. In 1961, he had a guest role on “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” which allowed him to work with Mary Tyler Moore. He also made appearances in other popular shows like “Perry Mason,” “The Andy Griffith Show,” and “Hogan’s Heroes,” among others.
In 1962, MacLeod secured his first regular television role in “McHale’s Navy,” where he remained for two seasons. This role was pivotal in establishing him as a familiar face on television. However, his departure from the show to appear in the film “The Sand Pebbles” indicated his ambition to pursue diverse roles in both television and film.
His career took a significant turn when he was cast as Murray Slaughter on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” This role, which he played from 1970 to 1977 across 168 episodes, not only cemented his fame but also earned him two Golden Globe Award nominations. It is difficult to pinpoint the exact amount he earned per episode but given that the show was a hit, his salary could have been considerable for the time. Sources estimate that salaries for main cast members of hit shows in the 1970s could range from a few thousand to tens of thousands per episode. While specific contract details remain private, it’s likely that MacLeod’s salary increased as the show’s popularity grew.
Arguably his most iconic role came with “The Love Boat,” where he portrayed Captain Merrill Stubing. The show aired from 1977 to 1987, and MacLeod appeared in all 250 episodes. The role not only made him a household name but also significantly contributed to his financial stability. Given the show’s popularity, his salary as the lead actor was likely substantial. Lead actors in prime-time shows during the late 1970s and 1980s could earn tens of thousands of dollars per episode. While precise salary details are not publicly available, it is reasonable to assume that MacLeod’s earnings from “The Love Boat” were a significant portion of his $10 million net worth.
MacLeod’s post-“Love Boat” career included stage productions and appearances in Christian films, which further contributed to his income. He toured with Michael Learned in the play “Love Letters” and appeared in musicals such as “Gigi” and “Copacabana” between 1997 and 2003. These ventures, while perhaps not as financially lucrative as his television roles, kept him active in the industry and added to his overall earnings.
Other Ventures and Endorsements
Beyond acting, Gavin MacLeod engaged in several ventures that contributed to his income. In 1986, he became the global ambassador for Princess Cruises, inspired by his role on “The Love Boat.” This role involved launching new ship lines and representing the company at various events. While the specific terms of his ambassadorship are not public, it likely included a retainer fee and additional compensation for appearances and endorsements. Such endorsements can be financially rewarding, especially for celebrities associated with a specific brand or product.
Additionally, Gavin and his wife Patti co-hosted “Back on Course” on the Trinity Broadcasting Network for 20 years. While it is difficult to ascertain the exact earnings from this show, hosting a regular television program would have provided a steady income stream.
Early Life and Education
Gavin MacLeod, born George See on February 28, 1931, in Mount Kisco, New York, grew up in Pleasantville, New York, with his younger brother Ronald. His mother, Margaret, worked for “Reader’s Digest,” while his father, George, was an electrician. After graduating from high school, MacLeod attended Ithaca College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts in 1952. His education in fine arts laid the foundation for his acting career.
Following college, MacLeod served in the United States Air Force. After his time in the Air Force, he relocated to New York City to pursue a full-time acting career. During his early days in New York, he worked at Radio City Music Hall while auditioning for acting roles. This period was crucial in shaping his career as he honed his skills and gained experience in the entertainment industry.
Personal Life and Real Estate
During his early career days, while working as an elevator operator at Radio City Music Hall, MacLeod met Joan F. Rootvik, a dancer with the Rockettes. They married in 1955 and had two sons before divorcing in 1972. This part of his life likely did not contribute to his net worth.
In 1974, MacLeod married Patti Kendig. Their marriage faced challenges, including MacLeod’s struggle with alcoholism, which led to their divorce. However, they remarried in 1985 after both becoming Evangelical Protestant Christians. This reconciliation marked a significant turning point in their lives and careers, as they went on to co-host “Back on Course” on the Trinity Broadcasting Network.
While specific details about his real estate holdings are not publicly available, it is known that Gavin MacLeod resided in Palm Desert, California, at the time of his death. Owning property in California, particularly in affluent areas like Palm Desert, can significantly contribute to one’s net worth, given the high real estate values in the state.
Net Worth Calculation Considerations
Estimating a celebrity’s net worth involves analyzing publicly available information about their income, assets, and liabilities. In Gavin MacLeod’s case, his primary sources of income were his acting roles in television and film, endorsements, and hosting gigs. His assets would have included real estate holdings, investments, and personal property. Liabilities would include any debts or financial obligations.
It is important to note that net worth estimates are often based on approximations and may not reflect the exact financial situation of the individual. However, given Gavin MacLeod’s long and successful career, it is reasonable to conclude that his net worth of $10 million at the time of his death was a reflection of his hard work and talent.
The key milestones contributing to Gavin MacLeod’s net worth include his roles in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “The Love Boat,” his ambassadorship with Princess Cruises, and his work on the Trinity Broadcasting Network. These ventures provided him with a steady income stream and contributed to his overall financial success.
