If you’re curious about Butterfly McQueen net worth and financial story, you’re in the right place. Rachel Parris will dive into her fascinating journey and uncover some intriguing facts.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Thelma McQueen |
| Popular Name | Butterfly McQueen |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | January 8, 1911 |
| Age | 84 (at the time of death) |
| Parents | Wallace McQueen, Mary McQueen |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Birthplace | Tampa, Florida |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | City College of New York (B.A. in Political Science) |
| Marital Status | Single |
| Sexual Orientation | N/A |
| Husband/Spouse | N/A |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $1 million – $5 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting |
| Height | 5 ft 1 in |
What is the Net Worth Of Butterfly McQueen in 2024?
Butterfly McQueen‘s net worth in 2024 is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million. This range reflects her significant contributions to Hollywood and her earnings from a career that spanned several decades.
Compared to her Gone with the Wind co-stars like Cammie King and Alicia Rhett, McQueen’s net worth stands out.
Cammie King, who played Bonnie Blue Butler, had a significantly lower net worth, primarily due to her shorter career. Similarly, Alicia Rhett, who played India Wilkes, also had a lesser financial impact in Hollywood.
Understanding Butterfly McQueen’s Finances and Career
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born Thelma McQueen on January 8, 1911, in Tampa, Florida, Butterfly McQueen started her journey in Augusta, Georgia. Raised by her mother, she was educated in a convent and initially aspired to become a nurse.
A high school teacher saw her potential in the arts and encouraged her to pursue acting. McQueen began her career as a dancer, performing with the Katherine Dunham dance troupe and earning her nickname from her fluttering movements in a ballet performance.
Major Film Roles and Earnings
McQueen’s big break came when she was cast as Prissy in Gone with the Wind. This role, though controversial and stereotypical, made her a household name.
She also appeared in other significant films like Mildred Pierce and Duel in the Sun, which further solidified her career and added to her earnings. These roles, despite the limitations they imposed, were pivotal in her financial journey.
Television and Radio Appearances
In addition to her film work, McQueen had a successful career on television and radio. She played Oriole in the TV series Beulah and appeared on Jack Benny’s radio program. These roles, although also often stereotypical, contributed to her financial stability and kept her in the public eye.
Awards and Recognition
McQueen’s talent was recognized when she won a Daytime Emmy Award for her performance in the ABC Afterschool Special Seven Wishes of a Rich Kid. This award not only acknowledged her acting skills but also enhanced her reputation and marketability in the industry.
Financial Challenges and Legal Issues
Despite her successes, McQueen faced financial and personal challenges. In 1979, she sued bus terminal security guards for harassment, winning a $60,000 judgment.
Such incidents highlighted the difficulties she faced as an African-American actress and impacted her financial and public life.
Educational Achievements and Later Career
In a surprising turn, McQueen earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the City College of New York in 1975. This achievement reflected her intellectual pursuits and provided her with new opportunities, although it came later in her life and career.
Personal Life and Beliefs
McQueen’s personal life was marked by her strong beliefs and independence. She was an outspoken atheist and a supporter of the Democratic Party, particularly Adlai Stevenson.
Her personal convictions sometimes influenced public perception and the roles she was offered.
Legacy and Posthumous Influence
McQueen’s legacy extends beyond her film roles. She is remembered for her contributions to Hollywood and her fight against racial stereotypes.
Her estate, managed posthumously, continues to generate interest and modest income through royalties and licensing deals.
Social Media Accounts
- Instagram: N/A
- Facebook: N/A
- Twitter: N/A
- Youtube: N/A
FAQs about Butterfly McQueen
Who was Butterfly McQueen?
She was an American actress best known for her role as Prissy in the classic film Gone with the Wind (1939). Born Thelma McQueen on January 8, 1911, in Tampa, Florida, she was originally a dancer before transitioning to acting.
Why was she called Butterfly?
She got the nickname Butterfly after performing a Butterfly Ballet in a stage production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream in 1935. The name stuck because of her constantly moving arms, reminiscent of a butterfly in flight.
What were some of her most notable roles?
Besides Gone with the Wind, McQueen appeared in The Women (1939), Cabin in the Sky (1943), Mildred Pierce (1945), and Duel in the Sun (1946), often playing servant roles due to the limited opportunities for African American actresses at the time.
Did Butterfly McQueen win any awards?
Yes, she won a Daytime Emmy Award in 1979 for her role as Aunt Thelma in the ABC Afterschool Special The Seven Wishes of Joanna Peabody.
What was her educational background?
In 1975, McQueen earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from City College of New York. She pursued education later in life, demonstrating her commitment to learning.
Was she involved in any activism or notable causes?
McQueen was a lifelong atheist and was recognized by the Freedom From Religion Foundation, which honored her with its Freethought Heroine Award in 1989. She was also involved in a lawsuit against bus terminal security guards for harassment in 1979 and won $60,000 in damages.
Did she face any challenges in her career?
Yes, McQueen faced significant typecasting, often being limited to maid roles. This typecasting reflected the racial prejudices of the time, limiting her opportunities despite her talent.
What was her stance on religion?
McQueen was a vocal atheist and criticized Christianity, describing it as an absurd imposture. She believed in focusing on making the world better in the present rather than relying on promises of an afterlife.
Did she ever get married or have children?
No, McQueen never married nor had children. She lived a private life, splitting her time between New York and Augusta, Georgia.
How did Butterfly McQueen die?
She died on December 22, 1995, from burns sustained in a fire caused by a malfunctioning kerosene heater in her home in Augusta, Georgia. She was 84 years old.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Butterfly McQueen’s net worth reflects her unique legacy. For more insights, including the highest paid TV stars 2024, check out rachelparris.com. Thanks for reading!