Net Worth Ranker
What Was Gene Kelly’s Net Worth?
At the time of his death in 1996, Gene Kelly’s net worth was estimated to be $10 million. Considering inflation, this amount is equivalent to approximately $20 million in today’s dollars. This figure represents the culmination of his earnings across a diverse career that spanned acting, dancing, singing, directing, and choreography.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Eugene Curran Kelly was born on August 23, 1912, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to James Kelly, a phonograph salesman, and Harriet (Curran) Kelly. He grew up in the East Liberty neighborhood of Pittsburgh. He attended St. Raphael Elementary School and later graduated from Peabody High School. While he initially enrolled at Pennsylvania State College with a major in journalism, the Wall Street Crash of 1929 forced him to withdraw and contribute to the family’s finances. In 1931, he enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh, pursuing a degree in economics. During this time, he became a member of the Theta Kappa Phi fraternity and the Cap and Gown Club, a theatrical organization. He graduated in 1933 and was admitted to the University Of Pittsburgh School Of Law, but dropped out after two months to focus on a career in the performing arts. From 1934 to 1938, he directed the Cap and Gown Club, further honing his theatrical skills. He also taught dance at his family’s studio and at the Beth Shalom Synagogue in Pittsburgh from 1931 to 1938. His early stage experience included a role in the chorus of “Leave It to Me!” at the Imperial Theatre on Broadway in 1938, based on the play “Clear All Wires” by Samuel and Bella Spewack.
Career Highlights and Financial Impact
Gene Kelly’s career was marked by several pivotal roles and projects that significantly contributed to his financial success. In 1940, he starred as Joey Evans in “My Pal Joey,” performed at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre and the St. James Theatre on Broadway, showcasing his versatility as a performer. His film debut came in 1942 with Judy Garland in “Me and My Gal,” where he played Harry Palmer. This role was a significant breakthrough, leading to more prominent roles in Hollywood. Among his most notable films are “An American in Paris,” which won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and “Singin’ in the Rain,” which he co-directed and choreographed with Stanley Donan. While specific contract details for these films are not publicly available, the success of these movies would have commanded substantial salaries and royalties.
In 1958, he directed “Flower Drum Song’ at the St. James Theatre on Broadway, based on the 1957 novel by C.Y. Lee. In 1960, Kelly played E.K. Hornbeck in the drama “Inherit the Wind,” based on the 1955 play of the same name by Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edwin Lee. In 1969, he directed the musical “Hello, Dolly!” starring Barbara Streisand and Walter Matthau. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture, reflecting his directorial prowess and contributing to his industry reputation.
Television and Later Career
Kelly’s foray into television also added to his income. From 1962 to 1963, he played Father Chuck O’Malley in 30 episodes of “Going My Way,” a comedy-drama series based on the 1944 film starring Bing Crosby. While the exact per-episode salary is not available, a leading role in a network series would have provided a steady income stream. He also appeared in various television productions, including “Schlitz Playhouse of Stars” in 1957, where he played Tom T. Triplet, and “The Funny Side” in 1971. In 1985, he played Senator Charles Edwards in the Civil War miniseries “North and South,” and in 1986, he played Eric Hovland in the miniseries “Sins.” These roles, although later in his career, helped sustain his presence in the entertainment industry and contributed to his overall earnings.
Kelly choreographed the NBC educational documentary “Dancing is a Man’s Game” in 1958, highlighting his expertise in dance and choreography. He continued to direct and choreograph throughout his career, adding to his income and solidifying his reputation as a versatile artist.
Awards, Recognition, and Enduring Legacy
Gene Kelly received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, which indirectly contributed to his net worth by enhancing his reputation and marketability. His awards include a Best Actor Award from the National Board of Review for “Me and My Gal” and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for “Anchor’s Aweigh.” In the 1950s, he received a Golden Globe Award nomination for “An American in Paris” and an Honorary Academy Award for his career achievements. He also earned a Best Director Award nomination from the Directors Guild of America for “Singin’ in the Rain.” These accolades increased his prestige and potential earnings. In 1992, he was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame, and in 1994, he received a National Medal of Arts from President Bill Clinton. These honors underscored his significant contributions to the arts.
Personal Life and Property
While specific details about Gene Kelly’s real estate holdings and other personal investments are not widely publicized, it is common for individuals of his stature to have investments in real estate, stocks, and other assets. However, detailed information regarding his specific properties or investment portfolio is not available. In 1983, a fire destroyed his mansion, resulting in the loss of his Honorary Academy Award, which was later replaced at the 1984 Academy Awards. This event highlights the personal losses he endured despite his professional success.
Gene Kelly married Betsy Blair in 1941, and they divorced in 1957. He later married Jeanne Coyne in 1960, who died in 1973. In 1990, he married Patricia Ward. He had three children: Kerry (born in 1942), Timothy (born in 1962), and Bridget (born in 1964). His personal life, while not directly contributing to his net worth, influenced his career and personal decisions.
Military Service
In 1944, Gene Kelly was inducted into the United States Navy as a lieutenant, junior grade. He was stationed in Washington, D.C., where he contributed to the writing and direction of government documentaries. While this service did not directly contribute to his financial wealth, it was a significant part of his life and career.
Gene Kelly’s Net Worth: A Summary
In summary, Gene Kelly’s estimated $10 million net worth at the time of his death, equivalent to approximately $20 million today, was the result of his successful and multifaceted career in acting, dancing, singing, directing, and choreography. His contributions to iconic films and television shows, along with various awards and recognition, solidified his legacy and financial standing in the entertainment industry. The specific details of his earnings and investments remain largely private, but his impact on the world of performing arts is undeniable.
