Larry Hagman was an American actor, director, and producer who had a net worth of $30 million at the time of his death in 2012 ¹. He is best known for his iconic roles in the television series “Dallas” and “I Dream of Jeannie.” Hagman’s successful career in the entertainment industry, which spanned over six decades, contributed significantly to his net worth.
Early Life and Career
Born on September 21, 1931, in Fort Worth, Texas, Hagman’s early life was marked by his parents’ divorce when he was just five years old ¹. He lived with his maternal grandmother in Texas and California, while his mother pursued a career in acting. Hagman’s interest in drama and dance led him to attend Bard College in New York, but he dropped out after one year to pursue a career in acting.
Hagman began his professional acting career on stage in 1950, performing in productions at the Woodstock Playhouse in New York ¹. He subsequently appeared in several tent show musicals and off-Broadway plays before making his Broadway debut in 1958. Hagman’s early career also included appearances in television shows, such as “Decoy” and “Sea Hunt.”
Breakthrough Roles and Net Worth
Hagman’s breakthrough role came in 1965 when he played Major Anthony Nelson in the NBC sitcom “I Dream of Jeannie” ¹. The show ran for five seasons and established Hagman as a household name. His salary for the show was not disclosed, but it is reported that he earned a significant amount from the series.
Hagman’s most iconic role, J.R. Ewing in the primetime soap opera “Dallas,” further boosted his net worth ¹. He earned $250,000 per episode, which is equivalent to around $700,000 today, adjusted for inflation. Hagman’s salary for the show was negotiated to include a percentage of the show’s profits, which significantly increased his earnings.
Film Career and Net Worth
In addition to his successful television career, Hagman appeared in several films, including “Fail Safe,” “Harry and Tonto,” and “Primary Colors” ¹. His film career contributed to his net worth, although the exact amount is not disclosed.
Personal Life and Net Worth
Hagman’s personal life was marked by his struggles with alcoholism and health issues ¹. He underwent a liver transplant in 1995 and was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2011. Despite these challenges, Hagman continued to work in the entertainment industry until his death in 2012.
Hagman’s net worth at the time of his death was estimated to be around $30 million ¹. His estate, which included his Ojai property, was sold for $6.5 million in 2013 ¹.
Conclusion
Larry Hagman’s net worth reflects his successful career in the entertainment industry. His iconic roles in “I Dream of Jeannie” and “Dallas” contributed significantly to his net worth, making him one of the wealthiest actors of his time. Despite his personal struggles, Hagman’s legacy continues to be celebrated, and his net worth remains a testament to his enduring impact on the entertainment industry.
