Marlo Thomas Net Worth (Money & Salary)

What is Marlo Thomas’ Net Worth?

With a net worth of $150 million, Marlo Thomas is an American actress, producer, and social activist. This figure represents her combined wealth with her late husband, talk show host Phil Donahue, to whom she was married from 1980 until his passing in 2024.

Recognized for her leading role as Ann Marie in the groundbreaking TV series “That Girl” (1966-1971), Thomas portrayed an aspiring actress navigating life in New York City. This pioneering show was one of the first to showcase an independent, career-focused woman as its main character.

Thomas has also significantly impacted children’s entertainment and education. In 1972, she produced the notable “Free to Be… You and Me” project, which encompassed a TV special, book, and album that advocated for gender neutrality and inclusivity. Over her career, she has made numerous appearances in films, television shows, and Broadway productions, garnering four Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and a Grammy. Besides her acting pursuits, Thomas is renowned for her charitable work, particularly her long-term engagement with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, founded by her father, Danny Thomas.

Early Life

Born on November 21st, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, Marlo Thomas grew up in a family deeply entrenched in the entertainment sector, with her father being comedian Danny Thomas. She would go on to appear alongside him in an episode of “Dick Powell’s Zane Grey Theatre.” Her brother eventually became a film producer. Of Italian and Lebanese descent, Thomas was raised in Beverly Hills, California, where she studied at the University of Southern California and earned a teaching degree.

Career

From a young age, Marlo Thomas aspired to be an actress and achieved this through various roles in numerous television series. Her early appearances included shows such as “Ben Casey,” “My Favorite Martian,” and “Bonanza.” In 1965, she made a significant breakthrough with the popular play “Barefoot in the Park,” performing in London before taking on additional Broadway endeavors.

Another key moment in her career arrived when she secured the lead role in “That Girl.” This series distinguished itself as one of the first to center on a female lead living independently from her parents, portraying a young actress striving to succeed in New York City. The show enjoyed substantial success from 1966 to 1971.

After penning the children’s book “Free to Be… You and Me” in 1972, Marlo Thomas proceeded to develop several television specials inspired by the story. She also produced a children’s music album titled “Marlo Thomas and Friends: Thanks and Giving All Year Long.” Following the conclusion of “That Girl,” she maintained a presence in diverse television series and films, including her role in the Broadway play “Clever Little Lies” in 2015.

Personal Life

Marlo Thomas had an extensive relationship with Herb Gardner, who was a playwright, screenwriter, and cartoonist. As a result, she became a stepmother to Herb Gardner’s five children from his previous marriage.

In 1977, Marlo made an appearance as a guest on the daytime talk show “Donahue,” where she and Phil reportedly experienced love at first sight. They wed in May 1980. Marlo also became a stepmother to Phil’s five children from his past marriage. Their marriage lasted until his passing in 2024 at the age of 88.

Philanthropy

A significant part of Marlo Thomas’ professional journey has involved philanthropy. In 1973, she played a role in establishing the first women’s fund in the United States, known as the Ms. Foundation for Women. Additionally, she served as the National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, contributing royalties from various children’s books and albums to support the institution.

Awards

Throughout her acting career, Marlo Thomas received five Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and a Grammy. She was honored with a Grammy Award for her children’s album. Furthermore, Marlo Thomas has been acknowledged for her efforts to change the portrayal of women in film and television, earning her the Women in Film Lucy Award for these achievements.

In recognition of her charitable efforts, Marlo Thomas won a Peabody Award and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014.

Real Estate

In 1986, Phil and Marlo purchased a 17-room residence in Westport, Connecticut, although the price was not disclosed. Two years later, they acquired an additional 7-acre connected property for just under $7 million. In 2006, they sold the combined estate to a financier for $25 million. The same year, they bought a pair of adjacent parcels near their previous estate for an undisclosed sum. They listed the approximately 6.5-acre property for sale in 2012 at $27.5 million and eventually accepted $20 million in 2013. They also own an apartment in Manhattan. A video tour of their former Westport estate can be found here: