Net Worth Ranker
What Is Maya Angelou’s Net Worth?
At the time of her passing in May 2014 at the age of 86, Maya Angelou, the celebrated American poet, author, teacher, activist, actress, and public speaker, had a net worth estimated at $10 million. This financial standing reflected her prolific career spanning multiple fields, from literature and performing arts to activism and education.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born Marguerite Annie Johnson on April 4, 1928, in St. Louis, Missouri, Maya’s early life was marked by significant challenges. Her mother, Vivian, was a nurse, and her father, Bailey, worked as a navy dietician and a doorman. Following her parents’ divorce when she was three, Maya and her older brother, Bailey Jr., were sent to live with their paternal grandmother, Annie Henderson, in Stamps, Arkansas. This transition was a pivotal moment in her life, setting the stage for her later resilience and determination.
Angelou’s journey took a dramatic turn at the age of eight when she was sexually assaulted. This traumatic experience led her to become mute for nearly five years, a period during which she found solace and expression through reading and observing the world around her. This period fostered a deep connection with literature and poetry, laying the groundwork for her future career as a writer. She attended the Lafayette County Training School, where Bertha Flowers, a teacher and family friend, played a crucial role in helping her regain her voice and embrace the power of spoken words.
At 16, Maya became San Francisco’s first Black female streetcar conductor, showcasing her determination to break barriers and challenge societal norms. This early experience instilled in her a strong sense of independence and a commitment to fighting for equality. In the 1950s, Maya formed the dance team Al and Rita with choreographer Alvin Ailey, and they performed at San Francisco fraternal Black organizations. She later danced professionally in clubs around the city under the name Marguerite Johnson. She recorded her first album, “Miss Calypso,” in 1957, and after meeting novelist John Oliver Killens two years later, she moved to New York to focus on her writing career.
Literary Achievements and Recognition
Angelou’s literary career reached a significant milestone in 1969 with the publication of her autobiography, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.” This book quickly became an international bestseller and remains a staple in many high school curricula. The book’s success was a turning point in her career, establishing her as a prominent voice in American literature and setting the stage for her subsequent works. She penned six more autobiographies: “Gather Together in My Name” (1974), “Singin’ and Swingin’ and Gettin’ Merry Like Christmas” (1976), “The Heart of a Woman” (1981), “All God’s Children Need Traveling Shoes” (1986), “A Song Flung Up to Heaven” (2002), and “Mom & Me & Mom” (2013). These works collectively contributed to her literary reputation and financial success.
In 1972, Angelou’s screenplay “Georgia, Georgia” became the first produced screenplay written by a Black woman. Over the next decade, she wrote for singer Roberta Flack, composed film scores, produced, directed, and starred in plays, and wrote poetry, autobiographies, television scripts, short stories, and more. Throughout her career, Angelou authored 36 books. This extensive body of work solidified her position as a literary icon and generated substantial income through royalties and sales. She also became Oprah Winfrey’s close friend and mentor during this time.
Awards, Honors, and Public Appearances
Maya Angelou received numerous accolades throughout her career, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2010, the National Medal of Arts in 2000, and three Grammy Awards. Her Grammy wins included Best Spoken Word Album for “On the Pulse of Morning” (1993) and “A Song Flung Up to Heaven” (2002), and Best Spoken Word or Non-Musical Album for “Phenomenal Woman” (1995). These awards not only recognized her talent but also increased her public profile, leading to further opportunities and financial gain. She earned three NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Literary Work, Nonfiction for “Even the Stars Look Lonesome” (1998), “Hallelujah! The Welcome Table” (2005), and “Letter to My Daughter” (2009).
A significant moment in her career was her recitation of “On the Pulse of Morning” at President Bill Clinton’s inauguration in 1993. This performance brought her national and international attention, further boosting her book sales and speaking engagements. Her involvement with the American Revolution Bicentennial Council (1975–1976) and the Presidential Commission for International Women’s Year (1977) also showcased her commitment to public service and increased her visibility.
Acting Career and Stage Performances
Angelou’s talents extended beyond literature. As an actress, she appeared in notable productions such as “Roots” (1977), “Poetic Justice” (1993), “How to Make an American Quilt” (1995), and “Madea’s Family Reunion” (2006). Her performance in the play “Look Away” earned her a Tony nomination for Best Featured Actress – Play in 1973. These acting roles contributed to her income and expanded her reach beyond the literary world.
Activism and Public Speaking
Maya Angelou’s involvement in the Civil Rights Movement alongside figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X was a defining aspect of her life. Her work as the Northern Coordinator of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and her participation in anti-apartheid and pro-Castro activism demonstrated her commitment to social justice. These activities, while not directly contributing to her net worth, enhanced her reputation and influence, leading to increased opportunities for public speaking and writing.
Real Estate Holdings
In 1994, Angelou purchased a home in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, for $575,000. This property served as her residence and a gathering place for friends and family. After her death, the house was sold for $500,000 to Shelley and Daryl Bible, who subsequently invested over $1 million in renovations. The property was later listed for $2.395 million in March 2020 and sold for $2 million a few months later. While this real estate transaction occurred after her passing, it reflects her investment in property as part of her overall asset portfolio.
Other Ventures and Collaborations
In addition to her writing, acting, and activism, Angelou explored various other ventures. She directed the film “Down in the Delta” in 1996 and collaborated with Ashford & Simpson on their album “Been Found.” In 2000, Hallmark began selling the Maya Angelou Life Mosaic Collection, which included greeting cards and household items. These collaborations and endorsements contributed to her income stream and expanded her brand beyond her literary works.
She donated memorabilia and personal papers to Harlem’s Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in 2010 and served as a consultant for Washington, D.C.’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in 2011. These activities, while philanthropic in nature, further solidified her legacy and influence.
Personal Life and Family
Maya Angelou was married twice, first to Enistasious “Tosh” Angelos from 1951 to 1954 and later to Paul Du Feu from 1974 to 1983. She had one child, Guy B. Johnson, born in 1945, who followed in his mother’s footsteps and became a writer. Her personal life, while private, influenced her writing and public persona, shaping her perspectives on love, loss, and resilience. Angelou enjoyed cooking and often hosted celebrations at her Winston-Salem home. Her skill in the kitchen led to Maya publishing two cookbooks, 2004’s “Hallelujah! The Welcome Table” and 2010’s “Great Food, All Day Long: Cook Splendidly, Eat Smart.”
Philanthropic Contributions
Throughout her life, Maya Angelou was known for her generosity and philanthropic efforts. While specific details of her charitable donations are not publicly available, her commitment to social justice and equality suggests that she supported various causes and organizations. Her donation of personal papers and memorabilia to the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is one example of her dedication to preserving and promoting Black culture and history.
Legacy and Influence
Maya Angelou’s legacy extends far beyond her net worth. Her profound impact on literature, civil rights, and American culture is immeasurable. Her works continue to inspire and challenge readers around the world, and her words resonate with generations seeking hope, understanding, and empowerment. Upon her death on May 28, 2014, she was working on a new autobiography. Her family shared the news of her passing on social media, writing, “Dr. Maya Angelou passed quietly in her home before 8:00 a.m. EST. Her family is extremely grateful that her ascension was not belabored by a loss of acuity or comprehension. She lived a life as a teacher, activist, artist and human being. She was a warrior for equality, tolerance and peace. The family is extremely appreciative of the time we had with her and we know that she is looking down upon us with love.”
President Barack Obama paid tribute to her, calling her “a brilliant writer, a fierce friend and a truly phenomenal woman.” A public memorial service was held at Wake Forest University, featuring speeches from Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Bill Clinton. Another memorial was held at San Francisco’s Glide Memorial Church on June 15th.
Posthumous Honors
Even after her death, Maya Angelou continued to receive recognition for her contributions. In 2015, the U.S. Postal Service issued a stamp in her honor, and in April 2021, it was announced that Angelou and Dr. Sally Ride would be the first two women featured on quarters as part of the American Women coin series. These posthumous honors underscore her enduring legacy and the profound impact she had on American society.
Reynolds Professorship at Wake Forest University
In 1981, Maya Angelou accepted a lifetime Reynolds Professorship of American Studies at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. While the specific financial details of her professorship are not publicly available, it is reasonable to assume that this position provided her with a stable income and benefits, contributing to her overall net worth. Her role at Wake Forest also allowed her to mentor and inspire countless students, further extending her influence and legacy.
Early Career Struggles and Determination
Despite her eventual success, Maya Angelou faced numerous challenges in her early career. From her difficult childhood to her struggles as a young single mother, she overcame adversity through determination and resilience. These early experiences shaped her character and fueled her passion for writing and activism. Her willingness to take on unconventional jobs, such as becoming San Francisco’s first Black female streetcar conductor at the age of 16, demonstrates her resourcefulness and commitment to breaking barriers.
Influence on Popular Culture
Maya Angelou’s influence extended beyond literature and academia into popular culture. Her works have been cited and referenced in numerous films, television shows, and musical compositions. Her words have resonated with artists and creators across various genres, solidifying her status as a cultural icon. Her friendship and mentorship of Oprah Winfrey, one of the most influential figures in media, further amplified her reach and impact on popular culture.
The “Maya Angelou Life Mosaic Collection”
In 2000, Hallmark began selling the “Maya Angelou Life Mosaic Collection,” which featured greeting cards and household items. While the specific financial terms of this partnership are not publicly available, it is likely that Angelou received royalties or licensing fees from the sales of these products. This collaboration with Hallmark demonstrates her ability to leverage her brand and image to generate income beyond her literary works.
Collaboration with Ashford & Simpson
In 1996, Maya Angelou collaborated with the songwriting duo Ashford & Simpson on their album “Been Found.” While the specific details of her contribution to the album and the financial arrangements are not publicly available, it is likely that she received compensation for her work. This collaboration highlights her versatility as an artist and her willingness to explore different creative avenues.
Role in “Blacks, Blues, Black!” Documentary Series
In 1968, Angelou wrote, produced, and narrated the ten-part documentary series “Blacks, Blues, Black!” for National Educational Television. This project allowed her to showcase her storytelling abilities and her knowledge of Black history and culture. While the specific financial details of her involvement in the series are not publicly available, it is reasonable to assume that she received compensation for her work as a writer, producer, and narrator.
Involvement with the Harlem Writers Guild
After meeting novelist John Oliver Killens in the late 1950s, Maya Angelou moved to New York and joined the Harlem Writers Guild. This organization provided her with a supportive community of fellow writers and helped her develop her craft. While membership in the Harlem Writers Guild did not directly contribute to her net worth, it played a crucial role in her professional development and helped her launch her writing career.
