Net Worth Ranker
What Is Phyllis George’s Net Worth?
At the time of her death on May 14, 2020, Phyllis George, the multifaceted American businesswoman, actress, sportscaster, and beauty pageant winner, had a significant net worth estimated at $100 million. This substantial wealth was accumulated through her diverse career ventures and strategic business decisions, reflecting her entrepreneurial spirit and pioneering roles in various industries.
Business Ventures and Investments
Phyllis George’s foray into the business world began notably with her marriage to entrepreneur John Y. Brown, Jr. in 1979. Brown, a key investor in Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) and owner of the Boston Celtics NBA franchise, significantly influenced her path. He initially ventured into the fast-food industry following his first wife’s BBQ business. In 1964, Brown, along with Jack C. Massey, acquired KFC rights from Colonel Harland Sanders for $2 million, equivalent to approximately $17 million today. This acquisition led to the transformation of KFC into a fast-food model, expanding to over 1,500 locations nationwide. Brown later sold his stake in the company for $284 million in 1971, which is about $1.8 billion in today’s dollars.
In 1986, Phyllis George launched her own venture, Chicken by George, a company specializing in chicken fillets. Two years later, she sold the company to Hormel Foods for an undisclosed amount. This entrepreneurial success led to her being awarded the Celebrity Women Business Owner of the Year in 1991, highlighting her achievements in the business sector. Further expanding her business interests, she founded Phyllis George Beauty in 2003, a marketer of cosmetics and skincare products sold through HSN. These ventures significantly contributed to her overall wealth.
Early Career and Miss America
Born on June 25, 1949, in Denton, Texas, Phyllis George was raised by her parents, James George and Diantha Louise Cogdell. She demonstrated a natural talent for public speaking and won several beauty pageants as a young woman. In 1970, she was crowned Miss Texas, setting the stage for her national recognition. The following year, she achieved national fame as Miss America 1971, which opened doors to numerous opportunities in entertainment and media.
Entertainment and Broadcasting Career
As Miss America, Phyllis George made numerous appearances on prominent talk shows, including “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.” She also co-hosted “Candid Camera” and returned to the Miss America pageant as its host. In 1975, CBS hired her as a co-host for “NFL Today,” alongside Brent Musburger and Irv Cross. During her tenure, she conducted one-on-one interviews with renowned athletes such as Roger Staubach and Joe Namath. She stayed with the show for three NFL seasons, returned in 1980, and left in 1983.
In 1985, George became an anchor for “CBS Morning News,” though her tenure was brief, lasting less than a year. Despite this, she secured notable interviews, including one with First Lady Nancy Reagan. Her pioneering role as a female sportscaster and television personality broadened her reach and contributed to her financial success.
Personal Life
Phyllis George’s personal life also intertwined with her professional endeavors. In the mid-1970s, she was briefly married to film producer Robert Evans. In 1979, she married John Y. Brown Jr., who served as the governor of Kentucky from 1979 to 1983. Together, they had two children, Lincoln and Pamela. Although they divorced in 1998, George and Brown maintained a close friendship. Serving as Kentucky’s First Lady from 1979 to 1983 enhanced her profile and influence.
Real Estate and Assets
Details regarding Phyllis George’s real estate assets are not extensively publicized. As a public figure with considerable wealth, it is likely she owned properties in upscale locations, though specific addresses and valuations are not readily available. Such assets would have formed a significant part of her overall net worth. Her ownership of luxury vehicles or private jets is also not publicly documented.
Financial Milestones and Investments
A significant financial milestone in Phyllis George’s career was the sale of Chicken by George to Hormel Foods. Although the exact sale price remains undisclosed, this transaction substantially augmented her wealth. Her subsequent founding of Phyllis George Beauty further solidified her position as a successful businesswoman. Specifics on her personal investments beyond her known business ventures are not publicly available, but her strategic business acumen likely extended to other investment opportunities.
Philanthropic Activities
While detailed records of Phyllis George’s philanthropic activities are not extensively documented, it is known that she supported various causes and organizations throughout her life. Her status as a former Miss America and First Lady of Kentucky provided her with platforms to advocate for and contribute to charitable endeavors. Such philanthropic efforts often reflect a commitment to social responsibility and community engagement, though specific financial details are not readily available.
Phyllis George’s net worth of $100 million was the culmination of her successes in business, media, and entertainment. Her ability to transition from a beauty pageant winner to a respected businesswoman and television personality exemplifies her versatility and determination. She died on May 14, 2020, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking achievements and entrepreneurial spirit.
