Net Worth Ranker
What Was Nell Carter’s Net Worth?
At the time of her death on January 23, 2003, Nell Carter, the accomplished American singer and actress, had a net worth estimated at $2 million. This figure reflects her successful career across television, film, and Broadway, spanning several decades. Carter’s financial standing was built upon her earnings from various roles, including her starring role as Nellie Ruth “Nell” Harper on the NBC series “Gimme a Break!” from 1981 to 1987, as well as numerous other acting credits and stage performances.
Early Career and Broadway Successes
Nell Carter’s journey to financial stability began with her early performances in local coffee houses and her involvement with the Renaissance Ensemble. Her transition to New York City marked a significant step in her career, leading to her Broadway debut in the rock opera “Soon” in 1971. Although “Soon” had a short run, closing after only three performances, it served as a crucial stepping stone for Carter. She returned to Broadway in 1972 in the musical “Dude”. In 1978, Carter’s career reached a pinnacle when she won a Tony Award for her performance in “Ain’t Misbehavin’.” She also won a Primetime Emmy for a televised version of the musical in 1982, further solidifying her reputation and contributing to her growing net worth.
Television and Film Roles: Building Her Net Worth
Carter’s transition to television and film broadened her reach and earning potential. Her role as Ethel Green on the ABC soap opera “Ryan’s Hope” (1978–1979) provided a steady income and exposure. The 1980s marked a significant period in her career, highlighted by her starring role in “Gimme a Break!” The series aired for six seasons, totaling 137 episodes, and garnered Carter two Primetime Emmy nominations and two Golden Globe nominations. While specific salary details from her “Gimme a Break!” contract aren’t publicly available, leading roles in successful network sitcoms typically command substantial compensation. Other notable roles included Sergeant Hildy Jones on NBC’s “The Misadventures of Sheriff Lobo” (1980-1981) and appearances in films like “Hair” (1979), “Tex” (1982), and later, “The Grass Harp” (1995).
Later Career and Continued Acting Work
Despite facing personal and financial challenges, Carter continued to work steadily throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. She appeared in the animated film “Bebe’s Kids” (1992) and had roles in TV movies such as “Maid for Each Other” (1992) and “Final Shot: The Hank Gathers Story” (1992). Her recurring role as P.J. Moore on ABC’s “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper” (1993–1995) provided additional income and kept her in the public eye. In her later years, Carter guest-starred on several television series, including “Touched by an Angel” (2001), “Reba” (2001), and “Ally McBeal” (2002). The films “Swing” (2003) and “Back by Midnight” (2005) were released posthumously. While the earnings from these later projects may not have been as substantial as her earlier work, they contributed to her overall income and net worth.
Personal Life, Financial Challenges, and Real Estate
Nell Carter’s personal life was marked by both successes and struggles. In the early 1980s, she sought treatment for cocaine addiction at a drug-detoxification facility. She was married twice, first to George Krynicki in 1982 and later to Roger Larocque in 1992. In the early 1990s, Carter underwent surgery to repair two aneurysms. She declared bankruptcy in the mid-1990s and again in 2002, indicating significant financial difficulties despite her successful career. In 1991, Carter sold her 4,000-square-foot Beverly Hills home to Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash for approximately $1.495 million. The three-bedroom home, built in 1964 and later remodeled, featured mountain-to-ocean and canyon views. This real estate transaction provided a substantial influx of cash but occurred amidst her broader financial challenges.
Awards, Recognition, and Final Years
Nell Carter’s talent and contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized through numerous awards and nominations. In 1978, she won a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical, a Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actress in a Musical, and a Theatre World Award for “Ain’t Misbehavin’.” She also earned three Primetime Emmy nominations, winning for Outstanding Individual Achievement – Special Class for “Ain’t Misbehavin'” in 1982. Her other nominations were for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for “Gimme a Break!” in 1982 and 1983. Nell also received Golden Globe nominations for Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series – Comedy or Musical for “Gimme a Break!” in 1983 and 1985. Despite these accolades, Carter faced personal and financial challenges in her later years. At the time of her death in 2003, Nell Carter’s net worth was estimated at $2 million, reflecting a career marked by both significant successes and financial difficulties.
