Did Gail Davis, the star of Annie Oakley, achieve financial success in Hollywood? While she became a beloved figure in the Western genre, many wonder how much she earned throughout her career.
Despite her iconic role, her financial journey wasn’t as straightforward as one might expect.
In this article, PBC delves into Gail Davis net worth, earnings from her acting career, and how she built her wealth.
We’ll also explore whether she faced financial struggles and how her income compared to other Western TV stars.
Gail Davis Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Betty Jeanne Grayson |
| Popular Name | Gail Davis |
| Birth Date | October 5, 1925 |
| Age (as of 02/24/2025) | Would be 71 (Died: March 15, 1997 ) |
| Birthplace | Little Rock, Arkansas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | University of Texas at Austin, Harcum College, Little Rock Central High School |
| Marital Status | Married (Multiple Times) |
| Spouse(s) | Carl Guerriero (m. 1971–1982), Richard Harold Peirce (m. 1959–1967), Bob Davis (m. 1944–1952) |
| Children | Terrie Davis |
| Dating | Affair with Gene Autry |
| Siblings | Shirley Ann Grayson |
| Parents | Father was a small-town physician |
| Height | 1.57 meters |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Television, Touring |
What is the Net Worth Of Gail Davis in 2025?
Gail Davis’ net worth is not publicly disclosed, making it difficult to pinpoint an exact figure. However, given her success in Hollywood during the 1950s, she likely earned a steady income from her roles in television and Western films.
Unlike modern actors, salaries in her era were significantly lower, and residuals were not as generous.
Compared to other Western stars like Gene Autry, who built a multi-million-dollar empire, Davis’ financial success was more modest. She was typecast after Annie Oakley, limiting her opportunities for higher earnings in Hollywood.
Related People & Companies
- Gene Autry
- Columbia Pictures
- RCA Victor
- The Gene Autry Show
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Golden Boot Award
- National Cowgirl Museum
- Little Rock, Arkansas
- Forest Lawn Memorial Park
- San Fernando Valley
Looking for more insights into the wealthiest celebrities? Check out this list of famous high earners.
Gail Davis Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Did She Earn from Her Acting Career?
Gail Davis started her Hollywood career in the late 1940s and quickly became a recognized name in Western films.
Her breakthrough came when she was cast as Annie Oakley, a role that made her a household name.
At the time, television actors did not receive the massive paychecks that modern-day stars do. Her earnings from Annie Oakley were substantial, but they didn’t make her a millionaire.
Unlike her male counterparts, who often secured lucrative endorsement deals and business ventures, Davis’ financial opportunities were more limited.
Her film career included over 30 movies, mostly Westerns. She frequently starred alongside Gene Autry, which boosted her visibility and income.
She also appeared in popular shows like The Cisco Kid and The Lone Ranger.
What Were Her Main Sources of Wealth?
Davis’ income primarily came from:
- Television acting – Her biggest role was Annie Oakley.
- Film appearances – She starred in 32 feature films, mostly Westerns.
- Touring – She performed in Gene Autry’s rodeo, which added to her earnings.
- Music recordings – She released some songs under RCA Victor, though they never became mainstream hits.
Despite her success, she did not have major business ventures or endorsements, which limited her financial growth.
Did She Achieve Financial Success in Hollywood?
Financial success in Hollywood is often measured by longevity and the ability to diversify income streams. In Davis’ case, her success was limited by typecasting.
In an interview, she admitted that directors couldn’t see her beyond her Annie Oakley role, making it difficult to land other acting jobs. While she made a good living during her peak, her career was relatively short-lived compared to actors who transitioned into other roles or business ventures.
Did She Receive Any Financial Recognition or Awards?
While Gail Davis did not receive major financial awards, she was honored for her contributions to Western entertainment.
- In 1994, she received the Golden Boot Award, recognizing her impact on the Western genre.
- She was inducted into the National Cowgirl Museum in 2004, honoring her influence on young girls.
- She has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, celebrating her contributions to television.
While these honors didn’t come with financial rewards, they cemented her legacy in Hollywood history.
Did She Face Financial Struggles?
Davis did not publicly disclose financial hardships, but her career faced limitations. After Annie Oakley, she struggled to find new roles, affecting her income.
Additionally, she went through a divorce in 1952, which could have impacted her finances. However, she later remarried and settled in the San Fernando Valley, where she lived comfortably until her passing in 1997.
How Did Her Wealth Compare to Other Western TV Stars?
When comparing Gail Davis’ wealth to other Western actors, the financial gap becomes clear:
- Gene Autry built a business empire through movies, music, and real estate.
- Roy Rogers had endorsement deals and merchandising, increasing his earnings.
- Dale Evans, another female Western star, was also typecast but diversified her career into writing and music.
Davis, however, relied solely on acting, making it harder to sustain long-term financial growth.
What Was Her Financial Legacy?
While her exact net worth remains unknown, her influence on Hollywood and female-led Western roles is undeniable. Even today, her impact is recognized through awards and film festivals.
Her estate remains private, and there’s no public information on financial details after her passing. However, her contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be celebrated.
Conclusion
Gail Davis may not have been among the wealthiest stars in Hollywood, but she left a lasting mark on the Western genre. Her career was shaped by both success and limitations, yet her legacy as Annie Oakley remains iconic.
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