How much was Deforest Kelley net worth, and what did he actually earn from his decades in Hollywood?
Best known for portraying Dr. Leonard Bones McCoy in Star Trek, he wasn’t just a beloved character actor—he built a lasting financial legacy.
While his co-stars often grabbed the spotlight, Kelley’s steady rise through film, television, conventions, and voice acting tells a compelling financial story.
Deforest Kelley Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Jackson DeForest Kelley |
| Popular Name | DeForest Kelley |
| Birth Date | January 20, 1920 |
| Age | 79 (Died: June 11, 1999) |
| Birthplace | Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Irish ancestry |
| Education | Decatur Boys High School |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Carolyn Charlotte Meagher Dowling |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Ernest Casey Kelley (brother) |
| Parents | Clora Casey, Ernest David Kelley |
| Height (meters) | 5 ft 10½ in (1.79 m) |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Star Trek franchise, conventions, voice acting, poetry |
What is the Net Worth Of Deforest Kelley in 2025?
DeForest Kelley’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million as of 2025. While he passed away in 1999, his financial legacy still draws attention—especially due to his role as Dr. Leonard Bones McCoy in Star Trek.
Compared to co-stars like Leonard Nimoy and William Shatner, Kelley’s earnings were modest, yet consistent over decades.
He earned a notable $1 million for Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country, thanks to production support from Nimoy. His Star Trek convention appearances also added up, earning up to $50,000 annually in the late 1970s. Despite not reaching the top earnings tier, Kelley maintained stable finances.
Related individuals and entities:
- Leonard Nimoy
- William Shatner
- Paramount Pictures
- Gene Roddenberry
- Carolyn Dowling
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Golden Boot Awards
- U.S. Army Air Forces
- Motion Picture Unit
- Star Trek franchise
Check out more about the most financially successful stars in Hollywood.
Deforest Kelley Wealth, Salary and Financial overview
How He Earned His Wealth Throughout His Career
Deforest Kelley began building his career with early appearances in films like Fear in the Night. His breakout role came when he played Dr. Leonard McCoy in Star Trek. From 1966 to 1969, he worked on the original series, which became a cultural phenomenon. Although he wasn’t the highest-paid actor, he was integral to the cast.
After the series ended, he reprised his role in six major Star Trek films. His earnings grew over time, especially when Leonard Nimoy negotiated for him to receive a $1 million salary for Star Trek VI.
He also voiced McCoy in the Star Trek animated series and appeared in the Star Trek: The Next Generation pilot. Outside Star Trek, his career included over 130 acting credits in both television and film. Notably, he worked with studios like Paramount Pictures and was spotted early in his career by their scouts.
What He Was Paid for His Role in Star Trek
Initially, Deforest Kelley earned approximately $2,500 per episode during the first season of Star Trek. As his role gained prominence, he was given third billing in the credits after William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy.
His iconic lines like He’s dead, Jim and I’m a doctor, not a… made him a fan favorite, further boosting his appeal at conventions and appearances. While his salary didn’t match that of some co-stars, it did grow with the series’ success.
The Star Trek franchise became a major contributor to his income. His portrayal of Dr. McCoy extended into video games like Star Trek: 25th Anniversary and Judgment Rites, which also added to his post-series revenue stream.
How His Salary Evolved in the Star Trek Film Franchise
Transitioning from the original series into the Star Trek film universe marked a financial turning point. His final on-screen appearance was in Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country, where Deforest Kelley earned an estimated $1 million. This increase came through the influence of co-star and producer Leonard Nimoy.
The growth from modest TV earnings to million-dollar movie checks illustrates how Star Trek sustained his career financially. His voice roles in video games and animation also gave him a revenue stream even after leaving on-screen acting.
Despite concerns about typecasting, he managed to carve out a solid income trajectory over decades.
Other Income Sources That Contributed to His Finances
Aside from acting, Deforest Kelley was active on the Star Trek convention circuit. He earned up to $50,000 annually in the 1970s by participating in fan events and public appearances.
Later in life, he pursued creative interests like poetry, publishing works including The Big Bird’s Dream and The Dream Goes On. These weren’t blockbuster successes, but they reflected his passion and rounded out his career income.
He also acted in other shows and films, including Bonanza, Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, Gunsmoke, and Where Love Has Gone, though most of his fame and income stemmed from Star Trek.
Financial Recognition and Honors He Received
Deforest Kelley’s contributions to film and television earned him lasting recognition. In 1991, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, celebrating his decades-long influence in the industry. Shortly before his passing, he was honored with a Golden Boot Award for his work in Westerns.
Though he never published an autobiography, his legacy is reflected in the fans he inspired. He mentioned that one of his proudest achievements was motivating people to pursue careers in medicine through his character.
These accolades, both financial and symbolic, added depth to his public image and financial standing.
The Financial Impact of His Legacy Today
Even decades after his death in 1999, Deforest Kelley’s legacy continues. His character in Star Trek still appears in pop culture references. Fans continue to revisit his episodes and films, driving renewed interest in his work.
His association with legendary figures like William Shatner and Gene Roddenberry reinforces his place in entertainment history. He also influenced aspiring doctors, artists, and actors.
Though he’s no longer with us, his financial and cultural contributions are still felt. As part of the Star Trek core trio, his influence remains strong in fan circles and media retrospectives.
Conclusion
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