Overview

Mary Jean “Lily” Tomlin (born September 1, 1939) is an American actress, comedian, writer, singer, and producer. Tomlin began her career as a stand-up comedian and sketch performer, later transitioning to acting on stage and screen. Her career spans over five decades, and she has received numerous accolades, including seven Emmy Awards, a Grammy Award, two Tony Awards, and an Academy Award nomination. She was awarded the Kennedy Center Honor in 2014 and the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award in 2017. Her breakthrough role was on the variety show ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’ from 1969 to 1973. A signature role written by her then partner (now wife) Jane Wagner, was in the show ‘The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe’, which opened on Broadway in 1985, earning Tomlin the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play.

What Is Lily Tomlin’s Net Worth?

Lily Tomlin, a celebrated American actress, comedian, writer, and producer, has accumulated a net worth of $20 million over her illustrious career. This financial standing reflects her success across various entertainment mediums, including television, film, and theater.

Lily Tomlin’s Career Milestones and Earnings

Tomlin’s career began with performances in Detroit nightclubs and eventually led to her television debut on “The Merv Griffin Show” in 1965. A significant breakthrough came with her role on “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,” where she gained recognition for creating memorable characters such as Ernestine and Edith Ann. Her success on “Laugh-In” paved the way for numerous television specials, including “Lily,” which earned her an Emmy Award. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Tomlin consistently appeared on various television programs, including “The Carol Burnett Show,” “Saturday Night Live,” and “Pryor’s Place.” She won Emmy Awards for her television specials “The Lily Tomlin Special” (1975), “The Paul Simon Special” (1977), and “Lily: Sold Out” (1981).

In 1975, Tomlin made her film debut in Robert Altman’s “Nashville,” for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The late 70s and the 80s also saw her star in the comedy-mystery “The Late Show” (1977). Notably, in 1980, Tomlin co-starred with Jane Fonda and Dolly Parton in the commercially successful film “9 to 5.” Other notable film roles include “The Incredible Shrinking Woman” (1981), “All of Me” (1984) with Steve Martin, and “Big Business” (1988) with Bette Midler. In 1991, she starred in a film version of her one-woman stage show, “The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe.” In the 90s Tomlin appeared in “The Player,” “The Beverly Hillbillies,” “Short Cuts,” “Blue in the Face,” “Getting Away with Murder,” “Flirting with Disaster,” and “Tea with Mussolini.” From 2002 to 2006, she played Deborah Fiderer on “The West Wing,” earning a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination. Other television credits include “Will & Grace,” “12 Miles of Bad Road,” “Desperate Housewives,” “Damages,” “NCIS,” “Web Therapy,” and “Eastbound and Down.” Her role as Frankie Bergstein on the Netflix series “Grace and Frankie” earned her Emmy, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild nominations.

While precise figures for each project are not publicly available, it is evident that Tomlin’s consistent work in television and film has been a significant contributor to her $20 million net worth. Her enduring presence in the entertainment industry has allowed her to negotiate favorable contracts and secure roles that have enhanced her financial standing.

Real Estate Holdings and Investment Insights

Tomlin’s real estate investments have played a role in her overall net worth. In July 1999, she sold a home in Los Angeles for $2.75 million. In 2017, Lily and Jane purchased a home outside of Nashville for $393,000 and sold it in February 2024 for $630,000, demonstrating a successful real estate investment. In June 2023, they acquired another property near Nashville for $950,000. While specific details about her other properties in Los Angeles and Palm Springs are not publicly disclosed, real estate has undoubtedly been a component of her investment strategy. The sale of the Los Angeles property for $2.75 million in 1999 indicates a profitable transaction, further contributing to her net worth. Her Nashville investments reflect her keen interest in the real estate market and her ability to make sound financial decisions.

Personal Life and Collaborative Ventures

Tomlin’s personal life has also intertwined with her professional endeavors. Her marriage to writer Jane Wagner in 2013, after 42 years together, signifies a long-standing personal and professional partnership. Tomlin and Wagner have collaborated on various artistic projects, including Tomlin’s comedy album “And That’s the Truth” and the documentary film “An Apology to Elephants.” These collaborative projects have not only enriched Tomlin’s career but have also contributed to her overall financial success. The specific earnings from these projects are not publicly available, but their impact on Tomlin’s reputation and career trajectory is undeniable. Her personal investments include properties in Los Angeles, Palm Springs, and Nashville.

Additional Income Sources and Ventures

Beyond her acting and real estate endeavors, Lily Tomlin’s net worth is also supplemented by earnings from her stand-up comedy performances, writing contributions, and production roles. As a versatile artist, she has diversified her income streams, ensuring financial stability and growth. Her early stand-up comedy performances at Detroit nightclubs provided her first income streams. Precise earnings from these sources are not always publicly disclosed, but they collectively contribute to her financial success. Tomlin’s Emmy Awards and nominations also boost her profile and enable her to negotiate higher fees for her subsequent projects.

Lily Tomlin: A Detailed Look at Her Net Worth and Financial Success

Lily Tomlin’s $20 million net worth is a testament to her remarkable career, spanning over four decades. Her financial success can be attributed to her talent, hard work, and smart investment decisions. Her journey from performing in Detroit nightclubs to becoming a celebrated actress, comedian, writer, and producer showcases her enduring presence and impact on the entertainment industry. While specific financial details for each project and investment are not always available, Tomlin’s overall net worth reflects her sustained success and financial acumen.

Tomlin’s career is marked by critical acclaim and commercial success. Her early work on “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In” established her as a comedic force, leading to numerous television specials and film roles. Her film debut in Robert Altman’s “Nashville” earned her an Academy Award nomination, solidifying her status as a versatile actress. In 1980, her role in “9 to 5” alongside Jane Fonda and Dolly Parton further enhanced her career and financial standing. Other notable film appearances include “The Incredible Shrinking Woman,” “All of Me,” and “Big Business.” Tomlin has also earned accolades for her television work, including multiple Emmy Awards for her specials and nominations for her roles on “The West Wing” and “Grace and Frankie.”

Tomlin’s real estate investments also contribute to her net worth. The sale of her Los Angeles home for $2.75 million in 1999 demonstrates her ability to make profitable real estate transactions. Her Nashville properties further reflect her investment strategy. While specific details on her other real estate holdings remain private, they likely play a role in her overall financial portfolio. Her professional collaborations with Jane Wagner have also contributed to her success. Together, they have produced numerous artistic projects, including comedy albums and documentaries, which have enhanced Tomlin’s reputation and financial standing. Tomlin’s ability to diversify her income streams, from acting and comedy to writing and production, has been key to her financial success. Her career reflects a blend of artistic talent and business acumen, making her a respected and financially secure figure in the entertainment industry. Lily Tomlin’s net worth is a reflection of her remarkable career and her ability to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of entertainment.

Summary of Lily Tomlin’s Net Worth Information

In summary, Lily Tomlin’s net worth is estimated at $20 million, reflecting her successful career as an actress, comedian, writer, and producer. Her income is derived from various sources, including television shows, films, real estate investments, and collaborative projects. While specific financial details for each project are not always available, her sustained presence and impact on the entertainment industry have contributed to her overall net worth.

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