Net Worth Ranker
What Was Michael Landon’s Net Worth?
At the time of his death on July 1, 1991, Michael Landon’s net worth was estimated to be equivalent to $40 million in today’s dollars. This valuation reflects his successful career as an actor, writer, producer, and director in the television industry.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Born Eugene Maurice Orowitz on October 31, 1936, in Queens, New York, Michael Landon’s journey to stardom began with a name change inspired by a phone book. His early roles included uncredited parts in various television shows. In 1956, Landon landed his first starring role in an episode of “Telephone Time” titled “The Mystery of Casper Hauser.” Other notable early roles included appearances in films such as “I Was a Teenage Werewolf” (1957), “Maracaibo” (1958), and “The Legend of Tom Dooley” (1959).
Before achieving widespread fame, Landon showcased his talent in numerous television series, including “Crossroads,” “The Restless Gun,” and “The Rifleman.” He also ventured into a singing career, releasing singles such as “Gimme a Little Kiss (Will ‘Ya’ Huh)”/”Be Patient with Me” in 1957 and “Linda is Lonesome”/”Without You” in 1964. These early endeavors laid the groundwork for his future success in the entertainment industry.
“Bonanza”: A Breakthrough Role
In 1959, Michael Landon secured his role as Little Joe Cartwright on “Bonanza,” a series that quickly became a national sensation. As one of the first shows broadcast in color, “Bonanza” captivated audiences and topped the Nielsen ratings for three consecutive years. Landon emerged as the show’s breakout star, receiving a substantial amount of fan mail. His rising popularity allowed him to write and direct several episodes, including the memorable two-hour wedding special “Forever.”
Landon’s dedication to “Bonanza” was evident in his participation in 428 out of the show’s 431 episodes. He remained a prominent figure throughout all 14 seasons, alongside Lorne Greene and Victor Sen Yung. While the show’s ratings eventually declined, leading to its cancellation in November 1972, Landon’s contribution to its success was undeniable. The final episode aired on January 16, 1973, marking the end of an era for the beloved series.
“Little House on the Prairie”: A New Chapter
Following the cancellation of “Bonanza,” Michael Landon embarked on a new venture in 1973, assuming the role of Charles Ingalls in NBC’s “Little House on the Prairie.” This family-oriented drama quickly gained popularity, captivating audiences with its heartwarming stories. After eight successful seasons, NBC rebranded the show as “Little House: A New Beginning” in 1982. Although Landon continued to serve as executive producer, director, and writer, his character’s presence diminished in the new format.
Despite the changes, “Little House: A New Beginning” marked the final chapter of “Little House on the Prairie,” concluding in 1983. Over the course of the series, Landon appeared in 187 out of the show’s 204 episodes, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. His involvement extended beyond acting, as he also contributed to the show’s production and creative direction.
“Highway to Heaven” and Other Ventures
From 1984 to 1989, Michael Landon starred in “Highway to Heaven” as Jonathan Smith, a series he created and where he also served as executive producer, writer, and director. This was the only show Landon owned outright throughout his career, underscoring his entrepreneurial spirit. He appeared in all 111 episodes, further solidifying his presence on television screens.
In 1984, Landon released “Sam’s Son,” a coming-of-age film he wrote and directed, loosely based on his childhood experiences. Beyond his television endeavors, Landon also ventured into game shows, appearing as a celebrity panelist on the premiere week of “Match Game” on CBS. These diverse projects showcased his versatility and creativity in the entertainment industry.
Real Estate Holdings
Michael Landon’s real estate portfolio reflected his financial success. He owned a seven-bedroom mansion in Malibu with 70 feet of ocean frontage, which he sold in 1989 for $6 million (approximately $11 million today). In 2014, an updated version of the same home sold for $40 million. Landon also owned a private equestrian compound in Malibu Canyon, featuring a 9,000-square-foot home. His family continues to own this property.
In the 1970s, Landon and “Bonanza” co-star Lorne Greene jointly acquired an undeveloped beachfront property in Malibu. In 1979, they donated the land to the state of California, stipulating that it be named Dan Blocker Beach in honor of their late co-star, who passed away in 1972. This property was later transferred to the county of Los Angeles in 1995, along with several neighboring parcels.
In 2015, Michael Landon’s widow, Cindy Landon, invested $7.5 million in a mansion above Malibu’s Broad Beach and undertook extensive renovations. She initially listed the property for sale in 2018 for $18 million but eventually rented it for $100,000 per month. In 2019, television tycoon Seth MacFarlane purchased the home for $15.7 million. This series of real estate transactions highlights the enduring value of Landon’s investments and the continued activity in the market.
Personal Life and Later Years
Michael Landon’s personal life was marked by three marriages and nine children. He was married to Dodie Levy-Fraser from 1956 to 1962, during which they adopted two children, Mark and Josh. From 1963 to 1982, he was married to Marjorie Lynn Noe, with whom he had five children: Cheryl (Lynn’s daughter from her first marriage), Leslie, Michael Jr., Shawna, and Christopher. His final marriage was to Cindy Clerico from 1983 until his death in 1991, and they had two children, Jennifer and Sean.
In 1991, Landon was diagnosed with an aggressive and inoperable form of pancreatic cancer. Despite his diagnosis, he remained in the public eye, sharing his experiences and raising awareness about the disease. On July 1, 1991, at the age of 54, Michael Landon passed away at his Malibu home and was interred in a private family mausoleum at Hillside Memorial Park Cemetery in Culver City, California. His legacy as a beloved actor, writer, producer, and director continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. His Michael Landon’s net worth remains a testament to his impactful career in television.
