Sam Donaldson is a prominent name in the world of American broadcast journalism, known for his long tenure as a White House correspondent for ABC News. His career, spanning decades, has not only earned him fame but also a significant wealth.
But what is Sam Donaldson’s net worth in 2025? Let’s explore the financial side of his career, from his salary at ABC News to his wealth outside of journalism, and how his financial status compares to other prominent figures in the media.
Sam Donaldson Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Samuel Andrew Donaldson Jr. |
| Popular Name | Sam Donaldson |
| Birth Date | March 11, 1934 |
| Age | 90 years old (as of 02/15/2025) |
| Birthplace | El Paso, Texas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Education | Texas Western College (now UTEP) |
| Marital Status | Married four times |
| Spouse | Sandra Martorelli (current) |
| Children | Four (Samuel, Jennifer, Thomas, Robert) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | Samuel Donaldson Sr. (father), Chloe Donaldson (mother) |
| Height | 1.91 meters (6 feet 3 inches) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $50 million |
| Source of Wealth | Journalism, Broadcasting, Investments (Ranching) |
What is the Net Worth Of Sam Donaldson in 2025?
Sam Donaldson’s net worth is estimated to be around $50 million in 2025, a figure that reflects his long and successful career in broadcast journalism.
His wealth comes not just from his years as a White House correspondent and anchor at ABC News, but also from his other financial ventures, including investments in a large ranch in New Mexico.
Compared to other famous personalities in journalism, Donaldson’s financial standing is quite impressive. For instance, his peers like George Stephanopoulos and Cokie Roberts have also made significant earnings through broadcasting.
While Sam Donaldson’s net worth may not reach the figures of the highest-paid celebrities, it is still remarkable given his age and the stability his career has provided.
Other media figures related to Sam Donaldson’s circle include:
- George Stephanopoulos
- Cokie Roberts
- Diane Sawyer
- Bill Clinton
- Richard Nixon
For a broader look at how the richest stars are doing, check out our celebrity net worth guide for more detailed breakdowns.
Sam Donaldson Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Much Did He Earn During His Career?
Sam Donaldson’s career spanned over four decades, during which he earned a considerable salary, especially as a White House correspondent and later, the anchor of This Week.
His work with ABC News not only provided him with a steady income but also allowed him to earn from various political reporting ventures. Throughout the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s, his salary reportedly ranged between $1 million to $5 million per year depending on his role.
As a leading figure in broadcast journalism, his high-profile career allowed him to secure lucrative contracts. Donaldson’s ability to adapt to changes in the media landscape, including transitioning into political commentary, solidified his financial stability.
His Career Highlights and Key Financial Contributions
Donaldson’s career highlights played a significant role in his financial earnings. His coverage of landmark events like the Watergate scandal, the Gulf War, and the Monica Lewinsky scandal boosted his career visibility and financial rewards.
As ABC News’ White House correspondent, his role during pivotal moments in American history added substantial value to his paycheck.
Additionally, Sam Donaldson earned from hosting the political affairs program This Week, where he commanded one of the largest salaries in broadcasting. His involvement in these events not only raised his profile but also attracted lucrative deals for his career, reinforcing his status as a major player in broadcast journalism.
His Wealth Beyond Journalism
Sam Donaldson’s wealth isn’t confined to his work at ABC News. He invested in a 27,000-acre cattle ranch in New Mexico, which became an essential part of his wealth portfolio.
Ranching is a significant contributor to his financial stability and adds diversity to his income sources. Donaldson’s interest in ranching shows how he leveraged his wealth beyond the television screen to secure long-term financial growth.
On the flip side, Donaldson’s wealth journey wasn’t free of controversy. In the mid-1990s, he was involved in a federal aid scandal related to subsidies for his farm, and a few years later, there were reports regarding the use of federal resources to hunt wild animals on his ranch.
These financial controversies temporarily affected his public image but did little to hinder his overall financial standing.
The Sources of His Wealth
For the majority of his life, Sam Donaldson’s primary source of wealth came from his work in journalism. However, his side ventures, particularly his ranching investments, have contributed greatly to his financial standing.
Sam’s financial acumen allowed him to diversify his wealth portfolio, making him less reliant on his broadcasting salary. While ABC News was the main source of his income, his strategic investments in land and cattle have proven to be highly profitable.
His Retirement and Long-Term Financial Stability
After retiring from ABC News in 2009, Sam Donaldson transitioned into a quieter life in New Mexico. However, his financial stability remained intact due to his solid investments and diversified income sources.
His ranching business, which was established long before his retirement, continues to be a source of income. Additionally, Donaldson’s involvement in various boards and organizations has allowed him to maintain a presence in the media landscape, securing his financial well-being post-retirement.
How He Managed His Finances During His Career
Throughout his career, Sam Donaldson was known for being financially savvy. He managed his earnings through a combination of long-term contracts, strategic investments, and a keen understanding of the media landscape.
His work with ABC News, especially during the 1990s, allowed him to negotiate better deals and solidify his wealth. Donaldson’s involvement in a variety of business ventures outside of journalism, such as ranching, further helped him build his financial portfolio.
The Impact of His Legacy on His Financial Success
Donaldson’s lasting impact on broadcast journalism and political reporting has only added to his financial success. His name remains synonymous with high-quality, in-depth reporting, and this reputation helped him secure lucrative deals both during and after his career at ABC News.
His legacy continues to play a role in maintaining his wealth, as his reputation as a reliable and respected journalist endures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sam Donaldson’s financial journey is a reflection of his success in broadcast journalism, his strategic investments, and his ability to diversify his wealth. From his significant salary at ABC News to his ranching ventures, Donaldson’s financial stability remains strong, even in retirement.
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