When people hear the name Christina Crawford, they immediately think of Mommie Dearest—the explosive memoir that exposed her tumultuous relationship with her adoptive mother, Joan Crawford. But beyond the controversies, Christina has carved out her own financial legacy. From acting to publishing and even politics, her wealth has come from multiple streams over the years.
So, how did she build her fortune? What are her main sources of income today? Let’s dive into the financial life of Christina Crawford.
Christina Crawford Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Christina Crawford |
| Popular Name | Christina Crawford |
| Birth Date | June 11, 1939 |
| Age | 85 (as of 02/17/2025) |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy, UCLA (Magna Cum Laude), USC (Master’s Degree) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Michael Brazzel (m. 1994–1999), David Koontz (m. 1976–1982), Harvey Medlinsky (m. 1966–1968) |
| Children | None |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Cindy Crawford, Christopher Crawford, Cathy Crawford |
| Parents | Joan Crawford, Phillip Terry |
| Height | N/A |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Source of Wealth | Book royalties, acting, business ventures, corporate roles |
What is the Net Worth Of Christina Crawford in 2025?
As of 2025, Christina Crawford’s net worth is estimated at $5 million. This wealth comes primarily from her book royalties, particularly Mommie Dearest, which became a cultural phenomenon. She also earned money from acting, business ventures, and even politics.
Compared to other Hollywood memoir authors, Christina’s wealth is modest but still notable. She did not inherit a fortune from Joan Crawford, making her financial journey independent and self-made.
Other Related Figures in Entertainment & Writing
- Joan Crawford
- Faye Dunaway
- Elvis Presley
- Katharine Hepburn
- Douglas Fairbanks Jr.
- Ann Blyth
- Helen Hayes
- Vincent Sherman
- Myrna Loy
- June Allyson
For more insights on high-profile celebrities and their fortunes, visit our celebrity finance section.
Christina Crawford Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did She Build Her Wealth?
Christina Crawford started her career in acting, appearing in Off-Broadway productions like In Color on Sundays (1958) and Dark of the Moon (1959). She later starred in the soap opera The Secret Storm (1968–1969). These acting roles provided her initial income, but it was her writing career that truly built her wealth.
In 1978, she published Mommie Dearest, which became a best-seller. The book’s shocking revelations about Joan Crawford led to massive sales, generating long-term royalties. The 1981 film adaptation, though controversial, further boosted her earnings.
Outside of books and acting, she also worked in corporate communications at Getty Oil and later managed the Coeur d’Alene Casino in Idaho.
What Are Her Main Sources of Income?
Christina Crawford’s wealth comes from multiple streams, including:
- Book royalties (Mommie Dearest, Survivor, Black Widow, No Safe Place)
- Film and TV earnings (The Secret Storm, Wild in the Country)
- Business ventures (Seven Springs Farms)
- Corporate career (Getty Oil)
- Political roles (County Commissioner of Benewah County)
Did She Receive an Inheritance from Joan Crawford?
Unlike many Hollywood heirs, Christina Crawford was disinherited from Joan Crawford’s estate. In 1977, she and her brother Christopher sued the estate, but they only received a combined $55,000—a fraction of what they expected.
Crawford’s estate primarily went to Joan Crawford’s other daughters, Cathy and Cynthia LaLonde, leading to years of legal disputes.
How Much Did Mommie Dearest Earn?
The book was an instant best-seller, selling millions of copies worldwide. The 1981 film adaptation, starring Faye Dunaway, became a cult classic despite mixed reviews.
Although exact figures aren’t publicly available, Mommie Dearest remains one of the best-selling Hollywood memoirs, continuing to generate royalties decades later.
What Business Ventures Has She Pursued?
Beyond acting and writing, Christina has explored entrepreneurial ventures, including:
- Running Seven Springs Farms, a bed & breakfast in Idaho (1994-1999)
- Managing Coeur d’Alene Casino (2000-2007)
- Founding the Benewah Human Rights Coalition (2011)
How Has Her Financial Status Changed Over the Years?
In the 1970s and 1980s, Christina’s earnings peaked due to Mommie Dearest. By the 1990s, she shifted focus to business and politics. Today, her income comes mainly from book royalties and media appearances.
What Role Did Politics and Activism Play in Her Finances?
In 2009, she was appointed County Commissioner of Benewah County, Idaho. She later founded the Benewah Human Rights Coalition, advocating for social justice. Though these roles weren’t major financial contributors, they expanded her influence beyond Hollywood.
Is She Still Earning Money Today?
Yes! Christina continues to earn money through:
- Royalties from her books
- Media appearances and interviews
- Future projects, including a stage adaptation of Mommie Dearest
Conclusion
From Hollywood to publishing, Christina Crawford has built a legacy beyond her famous last name. Though she faced financial hardships, she managed to create a successful career through her books, acting, and business ventures.
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