How did a classically trained British stage actress become a global icon in both TV and film—and earn millions doing it? Diana Rigg’s wealth journey is a story worth knowing.
From the glamorous days of The Avengers to the power moves in Game of Thrones, her financial legacy reflects her ability to dominate every medium she touched.
This article breaks down Diana Rigg net worth, her top-earning roles, and how she built her wealth over decades.
Diana Rigg Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Enid Diana Elizabeth Rigg |
| Popular Name | Diana Rigg |
| Birth Date | July 20, 1938 |
| Age | 82 (Died: September 10, 2020) |
| Birthplace | Doncaster, West Riding of Yorkshire, England |
| Nationality | English |
| Ethnicity | White / British |
| Education | Fulneck Girls School; Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Archie Stirling (m. 1982–1990), Menachem Gueffen (m. 1973–1976) |
| Children | 1 – Rachael Stirling |
| Dating | Philip Saville (former) |
| Siblings | One older brother |
| Parents | Beryl Helliwell, Louis Rigg |
| Height (meters) | 5 ft 8½ in (1.74 m) |
| Net Worth | $10 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting – Theatre, Film, Television |
What is the Net Worth Of Diana Rigg in 2025?
Diana Rigg’s net worth was estimated at $10 million at the time of her passing in 2020. While she is no longer active, her financial legacy remains relevant in 2025. She earned her wealth from decades of work across theater, television, and film.
Unlike many actors, Rigg balanced stage and screen work, and while not the highest-paid celebrity, her roles in cult-classics like The Avengers and Game of Thrones made her a lasting figure. Compared to other icons in British entertainment, her earnings reflect consistency, prestige, and global appeal.
Related names in her financial circle include:
- Patrick Macnee
- George Lazenby
- Rachael Stirling
- Laurence Olivier
- Glenda Jackson
- Keith Michell
- Tom Stoppard
- Peter Dinklage
- Lena Headey
- Stephen Sondheim
Looking for more profiles like this? Explore more on our list of top paid names in entertainment.
Diana Rigg Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How She Built Her Wealth Over the Years
Diana Rigg’s financial foundation was rooted in theater. She debuted in The Caucasian Chalk Circle in 1957 and joined the Royal Shakespeare Company by 1959. This early experience didn’t offer much financially, but it helped shape her reputation and led to more profitable roles later.
Her breakthrough as Emma Peel in The Avengers marked a turning point. Despite initial low pay, she negotiated her way up to £450 per week, demonstrating not only her talent but also her business acumen.
She once stated that she received no support from colleagues in her fight for equal pay—highlighting the gender pay disparity in entertainment.
Not one woman in the industry supported me… I was painted as mercenary, she shared.
That negotiation marked her shift into a financially empowered phase of her career.
How Much She Earned From Major Roles
Diana Rigg’s most lucrative roles came from TV. As Olenna Tyrell in Game of Thrones, Diana became a fan-favorite. While her exact earnings weren’t disclosed, major cast members of the show earned significant salaries—some reaching hundreds of thousands per episode.
Similarly, her portrayal of Mrs. Danvers in Rebecca and hosting PBS’s Mystery! showcased her presence in well-paying productions. These consistent appearances across hit series helped her maintain financial stability even in her later years.
What Her Salary Revealed About Gender Pay Gaps
Diana Rigg’s salary on The Avengers became a symbol of pay inequality. Initially earning £150 a week, she refused to continue without fair compensation. Eventually, she secured £450 weekly, setting a precedent for female performers at the time.
This decision not only enhanced her income but positioned her as a pioneer in demanding equitable treatment in the industry. Even decades later, her stance remains relevant in ongoing conversations about gender and compensation.
How Her Awards and Recognition Boosted Her Income
Awards were not just symbolic—they opened doors. Diana Rigg won a Tony Award in 1994 for Medea, which expanded her opportunities on Broadway. She also earned a Primetime Emmy Award for Rebecca and a BAFTA TV Award for Mother Love.
Each recognition increased her visibility, credibility, and bargaining power, leading to roles with better financial terms. These achievements made her a sought-after name in both UK and US markets.
The Financial Impact of Her Work in Television and Film
Diana Rigg starred in numerous high-profile films like On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, The Hospital, The Great Muppet Caper, and Theatre of Blood. While these may not have made her a millionaire overnight, they kept her career thriving.
Her recurring work with networks like BBC and HBO provided long-term earnings and royalties. Appearances in Doctor Who, All Creatures Great and Small, and You, Me and the Apocalypse further extended her portfolio.
How Her Theater Career Contributed to Her Finances
Theater may not always be as financially rewarding as film, but Diana’s consistent stage work helped maintain her income stream. From Pygmalion to Mother Courage, her presence on stage remained strong.
Her appearances in both West End and Broadway productions ensured she had a steady revenue outside of screen roles. The Tony win for Medea particularly elevated her theater value.
What Properties, Assets, and Financial Moves Defined Her Portfolio
There’s no public record of property investments, but Diana Rigg lived comfortably and continued working until the end. Her final film, Last Night in Soho, was released posthumously and dedicated to her.
She also served as Chancellor of the University of Stirling, a role that came with prestige and compensation. While she didn’t build a business empire, she managed her career in a way that maintained her financial independence.
How Her Personal Life and Relationships Affected Her Finances
Diana Rigg’s relationships influenced her life, though financial impact is unclear. She had a daughter, Rachael Stirling, with Archie Stirling, whom she later divorced. Prior to that, she was married to Menachem Gueffen and had a long-term relationship with Philip Saville.
While she remained financially independent, her life choices reflect someone focused on both career and personal freedom—without being defined by wealth from partners.
The Legacy She Left Behind in Terms of Finance and Career Impact
Diana Rigg’s financial legacy isn’t defined by extravagant numbers but by consistency, resilience, and respect. She challenged pay gaps, worked across generations, and stayed relevant across decades.
Her career is a case study in long-term success: strong roles, iconic status, and recognition across TV, theater, and film. She didn’t just build wealth—she built a standard.
Conclusion
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