How did Cloris Leachman become one of Hollywood’s most awarded and longest-working actresses—and turn that into a multimillion-dollar fortune?
From decades of memorable TV and film roles to real estate investments and voice acting gigs, Cloris Leachman net worth reflects her enduring impact on entertainment.
In this article, PBC dives deep into how she built her wealth, spotlighting her biggest financial moves, long-term TV contracts, and award-winning performances that paid off.
Cloris Leachman Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Cloris Leachman |
| Popular Name | Cloris Leachman |
| Birth Date | April 30, 1926 |
| Age | 94 (Died:January 27, 2021) |
| Birthplace | Des Moines, Iowa, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Bohemian (Czech) descent |
| Education | Northwestern University, Actors Studio, Illinois State University, Stella Adler Studio of Acting, Theodore Roosevelt High School (Iowa) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | George Englund (m. 1953–1978) |
| Children | Dinah Englund, Morgan Englund, Bryan Englund, Adam Englund, George Englund, Jr. |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Claiborne Cary, Mary |
| Parents | Cloris (née Wallace), Berkeley Claiborne “Buck” Leachman |
| Height (meters) | 1.65 meters |
| Net Worth | $10 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Television, Film, Voice Acting, Real Estate |
What is the Net Worth Of Cloris Leachman in 2025?
As of 2025, Cloris Leachman net worth is estimated at $10 million. Her wealth stemmed from a steady acting career spanning more than seven decades, with consistent roles in TV, film, and theater.
While she wasn’t known for blockbuster salaries, Cloris maintained longevity that few could match. From her Academy Award-winning role in The Last Picture Show to her hilarious portrayal of Maw Maw in Raising Hope, she built wealth over time through work, not hype.
Compared to industry friends and peers, her wealth may seem modest, but it’s rooted in consistent earnings and smart property investments.
People related to her field or personal life include:
- Julia Louis-Dreyfus
- Mel Brooks
- Betty White
- Mary Tyler Moore
- George Englund
- Valerie Harper
- Adam Sandler
- Marlon Brando
- Peter Bogdanovich
- Anabel Englund
For more comparisons with similar names, see our feature on celebs with long-lasting careers.
Cloris Leachman Wealth, Salary and Financial overview
How She Built Her Wealth Over a Seven-Decade Career
Cloris began her journey in acting after studying under Elia Kazan at the Actors Studio. Her early years involved stage plays like South Pacific, before transitioning to TV in the 1950s.
She made her mark in both drama and comedy. Her TV roles in The Mary Tyler Moore Show and its spinoff Phyllis gave her wide exposure, boosting her marketability and income.
Her film work, including Young Frankenstein and The Last Picture Show, brought critical acclaim—and with it, better offers. She wasn’t a one-hit wonder. She kept working, guest-starring in hits like Malcolm in the Middle and The Facts of Life.
While her net worth wasn’t celebrity-level high, her steady income from TV and voice acting gave her financial security.
Her Most Lucrative Roles in Film and Television
Among her most profitable roles:
- The Last Picture Show earned her an Academy Award, raising her rates for future work.
- As Phyllis Lindstrom in The Mary Tyler Moore Show, she gained both critical and fan success.
- Her six-year run on Malcolm in the Middle came with multiple Emmy nominations and wins, along with guest role payments.
- She later played Maw Maw in Raising Hope, proving her earning power even in her 80s.
In voice acting, she played major parts in Castle in the Sky, The Iron Giant, and more—another income stream that kept her relevant.
How Awards and Accolades Contributed to Her Financial Success
Leachman won:
- 8 Primetime Emmy Awards
- 1 Daytime Emmy Award
- 1 Academy Award
- 1 BAFTA Award
- 1 Golden Globe
These awards gave her leverage. It’s no coincidence that roles and appearances followed each win. In Hollywood, awards increase demand—and earnings
The Role of Real Estate in Her Financial Portfolio
In the 2010s, she purchased two homes in Topanga, California.
- One was bought for $930K and listed for $3.4 million in 2020.
- The second, purchased for $720K, was sold in 2020 for just over $1 million.
Though not a property mogul, her real estate dealings added over a million in capital growth to her wealth.
The Impact of Long-Term Television Work on Her Earnings
TV syndication and long-term contracts were pillars of her income. Her consistent guest appearances and main roles kept her in public view—and on payroll.
She had recurring appearances in shows like:
- The Facts of Life
- Raising Hope
- Malcolm in the Middle
How Her Collaborations with Iconic Figures Shaped Her Career Income
Cloris worked with giants.
- Mel Brooks cast her in multiple films, including Young Frankenstein and High Anxiety.
- Peter Bogdanovich directed her Oscar-winning performance.
- On TV, she shared scenes with Betty White, Valerie Harper, and Mary Tyler Moore.
These collaborations brought exposure and repeat work.
Her Financial Legacy After Her Passing
Even after her death in 2021, her impact on TV, film, and comedy continues. She left behind a family that included industry professionals and artists, including granddaughter Anabel Englund.
With a reputation built on work, not drama, her legacy remains tied to strong performances, real estate savvy, and a deeply respected name in Hollywood
Conclusion
Whether you like, not like, or feel neutral about her roles, Cloris Leachman left behind a strong financial legacy. For more insights like this, visit Pennbookcenter.com and explore other fascinating celebrity profiles. Let us know your thoughts in the comments or share this article!
