Net Worth Ranker
What Is Lynda Carter’s Net Worth?
Lynda Carter, an American actress and singer recognized for her iconic role as Wonder Woman, has accumulated a net worth of $10 million. This valuation reflects her successful career in television, film, music, and endorsements. Carter’s financial standing is a testament to her enduring appeal and diverse talents within the entertainment industry.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Born on July 24, 1951, in Phoenix, Arizona, Lynda Carter began her journey in the entertainment world at a young age. Her initial foray into the limelight occurred at the age of five when she appeared on “Lew King’s Talent Show.” During her high school years, she honed her performance skills by joining local bands and performing at a lounge in Las Vegas. While enrolled at Arizona State University, Carter decided to pursue a music career, eventually leading her to tour with The Garfin Gathering. Her early experiences laid the groundwork for her future success in acting and music.
In 1972, Carter’s career took a significant turn when she won the Miss World USA title, bringing her national attention. This achievement opened doors for her in the acting industry, prompting her to take acting classes in New York. Her first television performance came in 1974 with an episode of the police drama “Nakia.” Following this, she made appearances on shows like “Matt Helm,” “Starsky and Hutch,” and “Cos,” gradually building her resume and establishing herself as a versatile performer. These early roles showcased her talent and versatility, setting the stage for her breakthrough role.
“Wonder Woman” and Television Career
Lynda Carter’s career reached its zenith in 1975 when she was cast as the titular Amazonian superhero in the television series “Wonder Woman.” The show, which ran until 1979 on both ABC and CBS, propelled her to international stardom. During this period, Carter became a sought-after figure for promotional work, signing a modeling contract with Maybelline cosmetics in 1977. Additionally, in 1979, she appeared in a commercial for Diet 7Up, further solidifying her status as a popular celebrity endorser. While specific financial details of these contracts are not publicly available, such endorsements would have significantly contributed to her income.
Following the conclusion of “Wonder Woman,” Carter transitioned to made-for-television movies, demonstrating her versatility as an actress. She starred in the thriller “Hotline,” the biopic “Rita Hayworth: The Love Goddess,” the mystery crime thriller “Mike Hammer: Murder Takes All,” and the romantic drama “Daddy.” In 1984, she led the short-lived drama “Partners in Crime,” and in 1994, she starred in another short-lived program called “Hawkeye.” Subsequent television credits include “When Friendship Kills,” “A Prayer in the Dark,” “Someone to Love Me,” “Terror Peak,” and “Slayer.” Carter also made guest appearances on shows such as “Law & Order,” “Smallville,” and “Supergirl,” continuing to maintain a presence on television. While the exact salaries for these roles vary, leading roles in television movies and series typically command significant compensation, contributing substantially to Carter’s overall net worth.
Music Career and Album Releases
Lynda Carter’s musical endeavors have also played a role in her financial portfolio. In 1978, she released her debut album, “Portrait,” which featured a mix of cover songs and three songs co-written by Carter herself. Two of the album’s songs were performed by her in an episode of “Wonder Woman,” showcasing her multifaceted talent. Over three decades later, in 2009, she released her second album, “At Last,” which reached #10 on the “Billboard” Jazz Albums Chart. This success was followed by “Crazy Little Things” in 2011 and “Red, Rock n’ Blues” in 2018. Sales figures for these albums are not widely publicized, but chart success indicates a degree of commercial viability and associated revenue streams. Additionally, Carter has performed live music shows, contributing to her income through ticket sales and performance fees.
Film and Media Appearances in the 2000s
In the 2000s, Lynda Carter increased her presence in films, expanding her repertoire and income sources. In 2001, she played Governor Jessman in the comedy “Super Troopers.” Later, she portrayed a wash-up beauty queen in the comedy/horror film “The Creature of the Sunny Side Up Trailer Park.” In 2005, Carter appeared in two major studio films: the Warner Bros. remake of “The Dukes of Hazzard” and the Disney action comedy “Sky High.” In “Sky High,” she played the headmistress of a superhero school. While specific salary figures for these roles are not publicly disclosed, appearances in major studio films typically command substantial compensation, contributing to her overall earnings.
Beyond the screen, Carter has participated in theatrical productions. In 2005, she played Mama Morton in a production of “Chicago” on London’s West End. In 2007, she toured the US with her one-woman cabaret show called “An Evening with Lynda Carter.” These stage performances, while varying in scale and duration, contributed to her income through ticket sales and performance fees. In addition to live performances, Carter has lent her voice to video games, most notably for the popular series “The Elder Scrolls.” She has also provided voiceover work for “Fallout 4” and “Rage 2.” Voice acting for video games can provide a steady stream of income, particularly for established actors like Carter.
Personal Life and Real Estate
Lynda Carter’s personal life has also seen significant events that have influenced her financial situation. In 1977, she married her former talent agent Ron Samuels; they divorced in 1982. Following this, in 1984, she married attorney Robert A. Altman and briefly left Hollywood to join him in Washington, D.C. The couple welcomed two children, James and Jessica. They lived in Potomac, Maryland, in a 20,000-square-foot Georgian-style house they built in 1987. While the precise value of the property has fluctuated over the years, its size and location suggest a substantial asset. In 2021, Altman passed away, potentially impacting Carter’s estate and financial planning. Real estate holdings, such as their home in Potomac, are significant components of her overall wealth.
Carter’s advocacy and public appearances also contribute indirectly to her brand and potential income opportunities. She has been an advocate for various causes, including raising awareness of irritable bowel syndrome after her mother was diagnosed with the condition. Additionally, she strongly supports abortion rights and LGBTQ equality, appearing as the Grand Marshal at Pride Parades in Phoenix, New York, and Washington, D.C. Her willingness to speak out on important issues enhances her public profile and can lead to opportunities for speaking engagements, endorsements, and other income-generating activities. Carter’s past struggles with alcoholism and addiction have also led her to speak at events focused on health and wellbeing, sharing her story of rehabilitation and recovery. These engagements can provide speaking fees and contribute to her overall income.
In 2016, Carter appeared alongside fellow “Wonder Woman” actress Gal Gadot, director Patty Jenkins, DC Entertainment President Diane Nelson, and UN Under-Secretary General Cristina Gallach at the United Nations on the 75th anniversary of the character’s first appearance. They used the character as an example to advance gender equality and female empowerment. Such high-profile appearances further solidify her legacy and can create new opportunities for endorsements, speaking engagements, and other financially beneficial activities. The enduring appeal of “Wonder Woman” and Carter’s association with the character continue to be valuable assets in her career.
