Net Worth Ranker
What Is Sela Ward’s Net Worth?
Sela Ward, a celebrated American actress, has accumulated a substantial net worth estimated at $100 million. This impressive figure reflects her successful career in television and film, spanning several decades. It’s important to consider that Sela Ward’s net worth is separate from the combined marital assets she shares with her husband, Howard Sherman, a highly successful private equity investor. Their total combined assets are significantly greater than the $100 million attributed solely to Sela Ward.
Sela Ward’s Career and Earnings
Sela Ward’s journey to a $100 million net worth began with early roles that showcased her talent and versatility. Her breakthrough role in the NBC drama series “Sisters” marked a turning point, leading to her first Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 1994. This achievement not only boosted her profile but also opened doors to more lucrative opportunities. She continued her success with “Once and Again,” for which she received both a second Emmy Award and a Golden Globe, further solidifying her position as a leading actress and boosting her Sela Ward’s net worth.
Beyond these Emmy and Golden Globe winning roles, Sela Ward’s career has encompassed a diverse range of television shows, each contributing to her overall net worth. These include notable roles in series such as “House,” “CSI: NY,” and “FBI.” Her consistent presence on television, often in prominent roles, has ensured a steady income stream over the years.
In addition to her television work, Sela Ward has appeared in a significant number of films, each adding to her Sela Ward’s net worth. Some of her most notable film credits include “The Man Who Loved Women” (1983), which marked an early step in her film career; “Nothing in Common” (1986), where she starred alongside Tom Hanks; “The Fugitive” (1993), a blockbuster that further raised her profile; “The Day After Tomorrow” (2004), a high-budget disaster film; “The Guardian” (2006); and “Gone Girl” (2014), a critically acclaimed thriller. While specific salary figures for these films are not publicly available, it can be assumed that her roles in such high-profile productions significantly contributed to her overall earnings and Sela Ward’s net worth.
Although specific contract details and salary figures for Sela Ward’s television and film roles are not publicly available, it’s reasonable to assume that her earnings for leading roles in successful series and films would be substantial. It’s typical for established actresses like Ward to command significant salaries, often reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars per episode for television series and millions for film roles. These earnings, combined with residuals and other income streams, would contribute substantially to her Sela Ward’s net worth.
Sela Ward’s Early Life and Career Beginnings
Sela Ann Ward was born on July 11, 1956, in Meridian, Mississippi. She attended high school in Meridian before enrolling at the University of Alabama. During her time in college, she was crowned Homecoming Queen and was also a member of the cheerleading team and the Chi Omega sorority. She pursued a double major in fine art and advertising, showcasing her diverse interests and talents.
After graduating from the University of Alabama in 1977, Sela Ward initially planned to work as a storyboard artist in New York City. However, faced with financial constraints, she turned to modeling to support herself. This decision proved to be a turning point, as she was soon recruited by a prominent agency and began appearing in television commercials. One of her early notable commercials was for the cosmetics brand Maybelline. These early modeling and commercial ventures provided her with valuable exposure and financial stability, paving the way for her transition into acting. Sela Ward’s net worth journey starts at this stage.
Recognizing the potential for a career in acting, Sela Ward relocated to California. Her early film role was in “The Man Who Loved Women” (1983), where she worked with Burt Reynolds. Following this, she secured her first television role in “Emerald Point N.A.S.,” although the series had a short run. Throughout the 1980s, she continued to secure roles in both television and film, including “Nothing in Common” (1986) alongside Tom Hanks. Her breakthrough came in 1991 with her role in “Sisters,” where she portrayed a bohemian alcoholic, earning her the first Emmy Award in 1994. This consistent work in television and film during the 1980s and early 1990s laid the foundation for her future success and contributed to her growing net worth.
Sela Ward’s Real Estate Investments
Sela Ward and her husband, Howard Sherman, have made notable investments in real estate, contributing to their overall wealth. In 2003, they purchased a Bel Air house for $3.8 million. This property was later put on the market in 2015 with a listed price of $39 million, demonstrating the significant appreciation in value over time. Ultimately, the house was sold to Jennifer Lopez in 2016 for $28 million. The residence spans 14,000 square feet and sits on an 8-acre plot of land.
The Bel Air property underwent extensive renovations after Ward and Sherman’s purchase in 2003, which likely contributed to its substantial increase in value. The features of the renovated property included an infinity pool, 100-year-old flooring, a bar, and French doors. Originally built in the 1940s, the renovated home also boasted a 30-person theatre, a putting green, a private lake with its own beach, and an outdoor kitchen complete with a pizza oven. Additionally, there was a separate guest house that was converted into an art studio and recording studio. The sale of this property for $28 million significantly impacted Sela Ward’s net worth.
In 2021, Sela Ward listed her Soho apartment for sale at $5.795 million. She and her husband had originally purchased the property for $4.2 million in 2016. The 2,400-square-foot apartment features 14-foot ceilings, cast-iron columns, and exposed brick walls. Other notable features include marble countertops, French doors, a glass mezzanine, three bedrooms, and city views. The sale of this Soho apartment, purchased for $4.2 million and listed for $5.795 million, further contributed to Sela Ward’s net worth.
Sela Ward’s Accomplishments and Recognition
Throughout her career, Sela Ward has achieved significant milestones, further solidifying her status as a successful and respected actress. Her Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 1994 for her role in “Sisters” was a pivotal moment, marking her breakthrough into mainstream recognition. This award not only validated her talent but also opened doors to more prominent roles and opportunities.
Sela Ward further cemented her reputation with her role in “Once and Again,” for which she received a second Emmy Award and a Golden Globe. This recognition for her work in “Once and Again” solidified her position as a leading actress and contributed to her overall success and financial standing. These awards serve as testaments to her talent and dedication, further enhancing her earning potential and contributing to her Sela Ward’s net worth.
