Welcome to our dive into Bette Davis net worth, presented by RachelParris. Known for her fierce roles and unmistakable talent, Davis left a significant mark on Hollywood. How did her illustrious career translate into financial success? Let’s uncover the figures that defined her legacy.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
| Real Name | Ruth Elizabeth Davis |
| Popular Name | Bette Davis |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | April 5, 1908 |
| Died | October 6, 1989, American Hospital of Paris, Neuilly-sur-Seine, France |
| Age at death | 81 years old |
| Parents | Harlow Davis, Ruth Augusta Davis |
| Siblings | Barbara Davis |
| Birthplace | Lowell, Massachusetts, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Education | Cushing Academy, Northfield Mount Hermon |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Husband/Spouse | Harmon Nelson, Arthur Farnsworth, William Grant Sherry, Gary Merrill |
| Children | B.D. Hyman, Margot Merrill, Michael Merrill |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $2.5 million (inflation-adjusted) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Television, Theatre |
| Height | 5 ft 3 in (1.6 m) |
What is the Net Worth Of Bette Davis in 2024?
As of 2024, Bette Davis’s net worth stands at an inflation-adjusted value of $2.5 million.
While this might seem modest compared to today’s stars, it’s crucial to remember the value of money has changed over the decades.
To put it in perspective, Bette’s wealth is comparable to her contemporary, Joan Crawford, who also had significant financial success but faced similar ups and downs.
In contrast, Katharine Hepburn enjoyed a more stable financial status, reflecting her consistent career and wise investments. Both Bette and Joan, despite their tumultuous careers and personal lives, left lasting legacies that are still celebrated today.
Major Sources of Bette Davis’s Income
Bette Davis‘s income primarily came from her extensive acting career. She starred in over 100 films, television shows, and theatre productions.
Her earnings from acting were substantial, especially during the peak of her career when she was one of Hollywood’s highest-paid actresses. Bette also received awards and honors, which came with monetary benefits, further boosting her net worth.
Additionally, she made significant income from television and theatre, showing her versatility and dedication to her craft.
Career Milestones Impacting Bette’s Wealth
Bette’s career was marked by several milestones that significantly impacted her wealth. Her breakthrough role came with Of Human Bondage in 1934, which earned her critical acclaim and established her as a leading actress in Hollywood.
The peak of her career saw her starring in high-grossing films such as Jezebel, Now, Voyager, and All About Eve.
These films not only brought her financial success but also solidified her reputation as a talented and versatile actress. Even in the later years, with films like What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?, she experienced a financial resurgence.
Personal Life and Financial Decisions
Bette’s personal life was as dramatic as her on-screen roles. She was married four times, and these relationships had varying impacts on her finances.
Her marriage to Harmon Nelson, Arthur Farnsworth, William Grant Sherry, and Gary Merrill brought both support and challenges.
Despite these challenges, Bette made careful estate planning decisions, ensuring her adopted son and close friend benefited from her estate, though controversially excluding her daughters and grandchildren.
Contributions to the Film Industry and Legacy
Her contributions to the film industry go beyond her memorable performances. She co-founded the Hollywood Canteen, a significant philanthropic effort during World War II.
Her influence extended to future generations of actresses, many of whom cite her as an inspiration.
Bette’s awards and lifetime achievement recognition, including being the first female president of the Academy of Motion Picture Artsand Sciences and receiving the AFI Lifetime Achievement Award, underscore her lasting impact on Hollywood.
FAQs about Bette Davis
What was Bette Davis’s real name?
Her real name was Ruth Elizabeth Davis, but she changed it to Bette Davis after being inspired by Honoré de Balzac’s novel, La Cousine Bette.
When was she born?
She was born on April 5, 1908, in Lowell, Massachusetts.
How many Academy Awards did Bette win?
She won two Academy Awards for Best Actress. She was nominated ten times, making her the first person to reach this milestone.
What were some of Bette Davis’s most famous movies?
Some of her most famous films include All About Eve, Jezebel, Now, Voyager, and What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?.
Was she involved in any notable off-screen activities?
Yes, she co-founded the Hollywood Canteen during World War II and was the first female president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Did Bette Davis have any children?
Yes, she had three children: B.D. Hyman, Michael Merrill, and Margot Merrill.
How many times was Bette Davis married?
She was married four times. Her husbands were Harmon Oscar Nelson, Arthur Farnsworth, William Grant Sherry, and Gary Merrill.
Did Bette Davis face any career struggles?
Yes, she had periods of decline, especially in the late 1940s. However, she made a significant comeback with All About Eve in 1950.
Where and when did Bette Davis die?
She died on October 6, 1989, in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France, from breast cancer.
What awards did Bette receive throughout her career?
Besides her two Oscars, she received an Emmy Award and was the first woman to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Film Institute. She was also honored with the Kennedy Center Honors in 1987.
Conclusion
Bette Davis’ financial journey is as captivating as her film career. For a deeper dive into how her assets and earnings have shaped her legacy, visit us at rachelparris.com, where we bring detailed analyses right to your screen.