Margaret O’Brien Net Worth

What Is Margaret O’Brien’s Net Worth?

Margaret O’Brien, a celebrated American actress, boasts a net worth estimated at $10 million. This figure reflects her successful and enduring career spanning stage, radio, film, and television. Her journey in the entertainment industry began remarkably early, as she became a child star for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) at the tender age of four.

Early Career and Filmography Milestones

Born in San Diego, California, in January 1937, Margaret O’Brien quickly rose to prominence in Hollywood. Her early roles showcased her talent and charm, captivating audiences and critics alike. Some of her notable film appearances include:

• Babes on Broadway (1941): This musical comedy marked one of O’Brien’s early appearances, contributing to her growing recognition. While specific financial details from this film are unavailable, its success undoubtedly helped establish her career.
• Journey for Margaret (1942): This war drama saw O’Brien in a more serious role, showcasing her versatility. Unfortunately, precise salary figures for child actors during this era are scarce.
• Dr. Gillespie’s Criminal Case (1943): As part of the “Dr. Kildare” series, this film further solidified O’Brien’s presence in Hollywood. However, the exact financial compensation she received remains undisclosed.
• Madame Curie (1943): O’Brien’s role in this biographical drama, although not a lead, contributed to her exposure. Financial data related to her compensation is not publicly accessible.
• Lost Angel (1943): This film allowed O’Brien to display her dramatic skills. Public records do not contain information about the financial arrangements made for child actors at that time.
• Jane Eyre (1943): Playing a young version of the titular character in this adaptation added another dimension to O’Brien’s portfolio. Details on her earnings from this role are not available.
• The Canterville Ghost (1944): This fantasy comedy was another success, further building O’Brien’s reputation. However, specifics regarding her salary are not known.
• Meet Me in St. Louis (1944): Arguably one of her most iconic roles, this musical cemented O’Brien’s status as a major child star. For her performance in this film, Margaret won an Academy Juvenile Award.
• Music for Millions (1944): This musical saw O’Brien working alongside established stars, increasing her visibility. However, the specifics of her contract and salary remain confidential.
• Our Vines Have Tender Grapes (1945): Another starring role, this film continued to showcase O’Brien’s range. Unfortunately, public sources do not offer details on her compensation.
• Bad Bascomb (1946): This Western offered O’Brien a different genre to explore, further proving her adaptability. Details of her earnings from this movie are unavailable.
• Three Wise Fools (1946): Starring in this comedy added to O’Brien’s growing filmography. The specifics of her financial agreement for this film are not publicly known.
• The Unfinished Dance (1947): This ballet-themed film provided another opportunity for O’Brien to shine. However, her salary details from this project remain private.
• Big City (1948): O’Brien continued to secure roles in notable films, contributing to her increasing fame. Data on her earnings from this film is not accessible in public records.
• Tenth Avenue Angel (1948): Another prominent role, this film contributed to O’Brien’s sustained success. However, information regarding her compensation is unavailable.
• Little Women (1949): Starring in this classic adaptation solidified O’Brien’s position as a versatile actress. However, the financial particulars of her contract remain confidential.
• The Secret Garden (1949): Playing a key role in this beloved story added to O’Brien’s repertoire. However, her earnings from this role are not publicly disclosed.
• Glory (1956): As O’Brien transitioned into young adult roles, she continued to secure film appearances. Unfortunately, specifics about her salary are not available.
• Heller in Pink Tights (1960): This Western offered a different style of role for O’Brien. However, the details of her compensation are not publicly accessible.
• Annabelle Lee (2009): A more recent project, this film showcased O’Brien’s enduring presence in the industry. Financial details related to her participation are not publicly disclosed.
• The Mystery of Natalie Wood (2020): This documentary provided another platform for O’Brien to share her experiences. However, information regarding her compensation is unavailable.

While precise salary figures for O’Brien’s early film roles are not readily available, it’s important to understand the context of child actors’ compensation during the mid-20th century. Typically, child actors received a weekly salary, which would increase based on their level of experience and popularity. However, these details were often kept private between the studio and the actor’s family.

Recognitions and Awards Contributing to Net Worth

Margaret O’Brien’s contributions to the entertainment industry have been recognized with several prestigious awards, which indirectly contributed to her net worth through increased visibility and opportunities:

• Academy Award Juvenile Award (1945): This special award, presented for her outstanding performance in “Meet Me in St. Louis,” was a significant milestone. While the award itself did not come with a monetary prize, it boosted her career trajectory, leading to more prominent roles and potentially higher salaries in subsequent projects. The value of this accolade lies in the increased recognition and demand for her talent.
• Hollywood Walk of Fame Stars (1960): The actress was awarded two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, one for Motion Pictures at 6606 Hollywood Blvd., and another for Television at 1634 Vine Street. While these stars do not directly translate to monetary value, they solidify her legacy and contribute to her ongoing recognition. This increased recognition can lead to various opportunities, such as public appearances, endorsements, and consulting roles, all of which can contribute to her income.
• Young Artist Awards Former Child Star Lifetime Achievement Award (1990): This award acknowledged O’Brien’s enduring impact as a former child star. Similar to the Academy Award and Hollywood Walk of Fame stars, this award boosts her overall reputation and value within the entertainment industry. Such recognition can translate into increased opportunities and income through various avenues, such as guest appearances, interviews, and participation in industry events.

While the exact monetary value of these awards is difficult to quantify, their impact on O’Brien’s career and long-term earning potential is undeniable. The increased visibility and prestige associated with these accolades undoubtedly contributed to her overall net worth.

It’s also worth noting that income derived from appearances at film festivals, speaking engagements, and autograph signings can also be a factor. Although information is limited about Margaret O’Brien’s specific activities in these areas, they likely supplement her income.

Therefore, Margaret O’Brien’s $10 million net worth is likely the result of many different sources of income, including her earnings from film and television roles, real estate and investments, and possible royalties and residuals from her filmography.