Marlo Thomas is a well-known actress, writer, and producer, with a career spanning over six decades. Famous for her role in That Girl, she became a trailblazer for career-driven women on television. Thomas is also recognized for her philanthropic work and her leadership in various social causes. As of 2024, her net worth is estimated at $150 million, a result of her successful career in entertainment and smart investments.
Throughout her career, Thomas earned numerous awards, including Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and a Grammy. She also produced the groundbreaking children’s project Free to Be… You and Me, promoting gender equality. Beyond acting, her influence in the entertainment industry and charitable work has solidified her place as a cultural icon. With a diverse portfolio and continued impact, Marlo Thomas’s legacy goes far beyond her wealth, making her a powerful figure in both entertainment and philanthropy.
Profile Summary
Attribute | Details |
Name | Marlo Thomas |
Profession | Actress, Writer, Producer |
Famous For | Role in That Girl, Philanthropic Work |
Net Worth | $150 million |
Born | November 21, 1937, Detroit, Michigan |
Age | 86 years old |
Awards | 4 Emmy Awards, Golden Globe, Grammy, Peabody Award |
Spouse | Phil Donahue (married in 1980, passed away in 2024) |
Charity Involvement | St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Ms. Foundation for Women |
Major Contributions | Free to Be… You and Me, Advocacy for Gender Equality and Women’s Rights |
Investments | Apple, Amazon, Tesla, Real Estate Ventures |
Who is Marlo Thomas?
Marlo Thomas is an actress, writer, producer, and social activist. She rose to fame in the 1960s through her role as Ann Marie in the beloved TV series That Girl. This character marked a significant shift in the portrayal of women on television, showcasing an independent, career-driven woman at the forefront. Apart from acting, Marlo Thomas has also excelled in other fields, such as writing, philanthropy, and even managing charitable efforts like the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Throughout her career, she has received numerous accolades, including Golden Globe Awards, Emmy Awards, and Peabody Awards. Her work continues to resonate with audiences, and she remains influential in many areas of entertainment and philanthropy.
Early Life and Education
Marlo Thomas was born on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, into a family deeply rooted in entertainment. Her father, the legendary comedian Danny Thomas, was a major influence on her career. Inspired by her father’s success, Marlo Thomas pursued acting at an early age. She attended Marymount High School in Los Angeles and later went on to study at the University of Southern California. She earned a degree in teaching, but her passion for acting led her down a different path.
Her early years in education and family life shaped much of her future success, providing her with the foundation to enter the world of acting and later, producing. Her strong educational background and family influence helped her navigate the demanding nature of the entertainment industry.
Personal Life
In her personal life, Marlo Thomas found love with Phil Donahue, the famous talk-show host. They married on May 21, 1980, and shared a successful and loving relationship. She embraced Phil’s five children from his previous marriage, proving her commitment to family. The couple’s bond was cherished by many, and their partnership contributed to their shared net worth.
Their marriage lasted until 2024 when Phil Donahue passed away. Throughout their marriage, they made significant contributions to charitable work and enjoyed a comfortable life in their luxury residences. Marlo Thomas continued her philanthropic work, even after her husband’s passing, maintaining his legacy alongside her own.
Read More: Understanding Ink Types for T-Shirt Printing
Career Highlights
Marlo Thomas‘ career highlights are numerous and impactful. Her breakthrough role as Ann Marie on That Girl in the 1960s made her a household name. The show’s success lasted until 1971, marking her as one of the first independent women on television. Beyond acting, Marlo Thomas’s career expanded into producing and writing, most notably through her work on the groundbreaking children’s program Free to Be… You and Me in 1972.
This project helped promote gender equality, a cause that has remained close to her heart.She also took part in other projects such as Broadway shows and continued acting in various TV shows and films. Her career has spanned decades, earning her Golden Globe Awards, Emmy Awards, and Grammy Awards for her outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry.
Social Influence
Even in her 80s, Marlo Thomas continues to be a prominent social activist and influential figure. Her online presence and involvement in numerous social causes show that she remains as relevant as ever. Her influence extends far beyond acting, as she has used her platform to promote equality, gender rights, and children’s health.
Through her philanthropic work, particularly with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, shehas solidified her position as a philanthropist.Her presence on social media allows her to reach a new generation of fans and advocates for causes close to her heart, ensuring that her impact will be felt for years to come.
What is Marlo Thomas’s Net Worth?
Marlo Thomas‘ net worth stands at an impressive $150 million as of 2024, which is shared with her late husband Phil Donahue. Her wealth is a testament to her high earning potential and diverse career. From her early days as a TV actress in That Girl to her ongoing work in philanthropy and investments, Marlo Thomas has strategically built her fortune over the years.
Her net worth includes earnings from her acting roles, book income, investments, real estate ventures, and inheritance from her late husband. Additionally, her role in charitable work has further increased her prominence and financial growth, especially through her efforts at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Ms. Foundation for Women.
Marlo Thomas Net Worth Breakdown
Marlo Thomas’ net worth is a combination of several income streams. Her acting career alone, with high-paying roles in television and films, contributed significantly to her wealth. Let’s break it down into key categories:
Acting Career
Throughout her career, Marlo Thomas earned substantial amounts from TV shows and films. She was paid as much as $100,000 per episode of That Girl, a testament to her high earning potential during the show’s run. Her sustained work in the entertainment industry, from TV series to Broadway shows, continues to be a major source of income.
Book Income
In addition to acting, Marlo Thomas has made significant income from her books, such as Growing Up Laughing and It Ain’t Over… Till It’s Over. These bestsellers have not only earned her royalties but have also contributed to her financial growth by expanding her brand beyond television.
Investment
Marlo Thomas is also a savvy investor. Her investments in companies like Apple, Amazon, and Tesla have paid off handsomely. These wise choices have led to her stock market holdings being worth millions, further increasing her overall net worth.
Real Estate
Over the years, Marlo Thomas and her husband have made profitable real estate ventures. They owned several luxury residences in prime locations such as Westport, Connecticut, and Manhattan. Their real estate sales, including the $25 million sale of their Westport property, have played a significant role in building their wealth.
Inheritance
Following the passing of Phil Donahue, Marlo Thomas is set to inherit a portion of his estate, which is expected to be worth around $80 million. This inheritance will likely contribute substantially to her net worth in the coming years.
Philanthropy
A major part of Marlo Thomas’ life has been dedicated to philanthropy. She has used her wealth and influence to support various causes, particularly those related to children’s health. As the National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, she has raised millions for cancer research and treatment.
In addition, Marlo Thomas co-founded the Ms. Foundation for Women, which focuses on empowering women through grants and advocacy. Her charitable work continues to make a profound impact on society, cementing her legacy as a philanthropist.
Real Estate
Marlo Thomas and Phil Donahue made strategic real estate investments throughout their marriage. They owned multiple properties, including a luxury residence in Westport, Connecticut, which was sold for a massive $25 million in 2006. Their keen eye for prime real estate locations helped expand their wealth, and they continued to invest in properties in Manhattan as well. These ventures have significantly contributed to their overall net worth.
FAQ’s
How much is Marlo Thomas’s net worth?
Marlo Thomas’s net worth is estimated to be around $150 million, accumulated through her acting, investments, and philanthropy.
What is Marlo Thomas known for?
Marlo Thomas is best known for her role in the TV series That Girl, her philanthropic work with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and writing books.
Who is Marlo Thomas married to?
Marlo Thomas was married to Phil Donahue, a famous talk-show host, from 1980 until his passing in 2024. They shared a significant philanthropic legacy.
How did Marlo Thomas make her money?
Marlo Thomas made money through acting, book income, investments, and real estate ventures. She also earned income from her charitable work with St. Jude.
What are some of Marlo Thomas’s philanthropic contributions?
Marlo Thomas contributed greatly to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and co-founded the Ms. Foundation for Women, advocating for children’s health and women’s rights.
Conclusion
Marlo Thomas has built a remarkable career spanning over six decades. From her iconic role in That Girl to her impressive philanthropic efforts, she has left a lasting impact on both the entertainment industry and society. Her dedication to charity, particularly with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, has further solidified her legacy as a social activist. Alongside her acting, her book income, investments, and real estate ventures have significantly contributed to her wealth.
Today, Marlo Thomas’s net worth is estimated to be around $150 million. This fortune reflects her successful career, wise financial decisions, and commitment to making the world a better place. Whether through her acting, writing, or charitable work, she continues to inspire and influence many people worldwide.