Marlo Thomas Net Worth, Early Life, Career, Personal Life [2024]
Marlo Thomas is a name that resonates with several generations of TV fans, thanks to her breakthrough role in the hit series That Girl. As of 2024, her remarkable career spans acting, production, and philanthropy. With a net worth of $150 million, Marlo Thomas has not only made her mark in Hollywood but also in various social causes.
Known for pushing boundaries, Thomas has played pivotal roles in reshaping how women are portrayed on television. Her success on-screen and off-screen demonstrates her versatility and long-lasting appeal.
Full Name | Margaret Julia Thomas Donahue |
Profession | Actress, Producer, Author, Philanthropist |
Date of Birth | November 21, 1937 |
Age | 86 (as of 2024) |
Nationality | American |
Net Worth | Estimated around $150 million (as of 2024) |
Books | Free to Be… You and Me (1972), The Right Words at the Right Time (2002) |
Notable TV & Film | That Girl, Friends, It Happened One Christmas, Playing Mona Lisa |
Early Life
Marlo Thomas was born on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, into an entertainment-driven family. Her father, Danny Thomas, was a celebrated comedian and television star, best known for creating the hit series Make Room for Daddy. Her mother, Rose Marie Cassaniti, was of Italian and Lebanese descent, which gave Thomas a rich cultural background. Growing up in Beverly Hills, California, Marlo was surrounded by Hollywood influences from an early age.
Thomas’ upbringing was filled with the glitz and glamour of the entertainment world, yet her parents emphasized the importance of education. She attended Marymount High School and later pursued a degree in education at the University of Southern California (USC). Although she initially planned to become a teacher, her passion for acting drew her toward a career in show business. Her time at USC not only shaped her intellectually but also fueled her desire to break into acting.
Family connections certainly helped open doors, but Marlo was determined to carve her own path. She started taking acting classes and soon appeared in small roles on television. Her father’s success was a source of inspiration, but Thomas wanted to make a name for herself based on her talent and hard work.
Career
Marlo Thomas’ career began with small roles in popular TV series like Bonanza and Ben Casey. However, her big break came in 1966 when she was cast as the lead in That Girl. The show was revolutionary for its time, centering on a single woman pursuing a career rather than focusing on marriage, a theme that was uncommon in the 1960s. Thomas played Ann Marie, an aspiring actress trying to make it in New York City, and this role made her a household name.
That Girl ran for five seasons, from 1966 to 1971, and was one of the first TV shows to feature a strong, independent female lead. It not only garnered critical acclaim but also set the stage for future portrayals of women on television. Thomas became a role model for women across the U.S. and earned multiple awards and nominations for her performance.
Beyond That Girl, Thomas made significant contributions to children’s entertainment. In 1972, she produced the influential project Free to Be… You and Me, which included a TV special, book, and album. This project promoted gender equality, diversity, and kindness, and was highly regarded for breaking stereotypes.
Thomas has continued to work in television and film, appearing in popular series like Friends and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. On Broadway, she starred in plays such as Social Security and Clever Little Lies. Her long-standing career has been recognized with numerous awards, including four Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and a Grammy.
Philanthropy and Social Activism
Marlo Thomas has been a prominent figure in philanthropy, dedicating much of her life to charitable causes, particularly through her work with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The hospital, founded by her father, Danny Thomas, has always held a special place in her heart. As National Outreach Director, Thomas has played a crucial role in raising awareness and funding for the hospital, which provides free care to children with cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
Her commitment to St. Jude goes beyond her public role. Thomas has raised millions of dollars through various campaigns and events, with proceeds often directed towards the hospital. She also donates royalties from her children’s books and albums, such as Free to Be… You and Me, to support the hospital’s ongoing research efforts.
In addition to her work with St. Jude, Thomas has been an advocate for women’s rights. In 1973, she co-founded the Ms. Foundation for Women, the first women’s fund in the United States. This organization has supported numerous projects aimed at empowering women and advocating for equality. Thomas has remained vocal about issues of gender representation, both in the entertainment industry and in society at large.
Her philanthropic efforts have earned her numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, awarded for her contributions to society. Thomas’ passion for activism continues to inspire future generations, ensuring her impact extends far beyond her acting career.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Marlo Thomas boasts a net worth of $150 million. Her fortune reflects decades of hard work in television, film, and philanthropy. This wealth, however, is not solely from her acting career. Thomas has earned income from various avenues, including production work and royalties from her children’s projects, such as the Free to Be… You and Me series.
Her role in the groundbreaking TV show That Girl in the late 1960s laid the foundation for her financial success. Playing Ann Marie, an independent actress in New York City, helped her break into the mainstream and marked her as a forward-thinking figure in Hollywood. The show’s success earned her a steady income, but it was far from the only source of her earnings.
In addition to her acting career, Thomas has been involved in producing several television projects, further boosting her financial standing. Her marriage to Phil Donahue, a legendary talk show host, also contributed to their combined wealth. Donahue, who had a successful career of his own, left behind a legacy that bolstered the couple’s fortune.
By 2024, Thomas will continue to generate income from multiple sources, including royalties and investments. Her work in philanthropy, especially her involvement with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, ensures her enduring influence beyond the entertainment industry.
Personal Life
Marlo Thomas’ personal life has been as noteworthy as her career. She was in a long-term relationship with Herb Gardner, a playwright and screenwriter, but it was her marriage to talk show host Phil Donahue that gained significant public attention. The couple met in 1977 when Marlo appeared as a guest on Donahue, and the chemistry between them was immediate. They married in 1980, and their relationship lasted for more than four decades until Donahue’s passing in 2024.
Though Thomas never had biological children, she became a stepmother to Donahue’s five children from his previous marriage. She has spoken openly about the challenges and joys of being a stepmother, especially in a family as large as hers. Thomas and Donahue often discussed their blended family on various platforms, sharing insights into how they balanced work, family, and life as public figures.
Aside from her family, Thomas’ personal life has been deeply intertwined with her philanthropic work. Her long-standing involvement with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, founded by her father Danny Thomas, has made her a notable figure in charitable circles. She continues to be a national spokesperson for the hospital, dedicating time and resources to its mission of helping children with life-threatening illnesses.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)
What is Marlo Thomas’ current net worth?
As of 2024, Marlo Thomas has an estimated net worth of $150 million. Her wealth primarily comes from her decades-long career in television, film, and Broadway, alongside her role as a producer. Additionally, royalties from her work on children’s projects like Free to Be… You and Me and earnings from her late husband, Phil Donahue’s career, further contribute to her wealth.
What are Marlo Thomas’ most famous roles?
Marlo Thomas is best known for her role as Ann Marie in the groundbreaking television series That Girl, which ran from 1966 to 1971. This show made her a household name and was one of the first to depict an independent woman chasing her career. She is also recognized for her appearances in shows like Friends (as Sandra Green, Rachel’s mother) and Law & Order: SVU. Additionally, her work in children’s entertainment with Free to Be… You and Me remain iconic.
Who was Marlo Thomas married to?
Marlo Thomas was married to the famous talk show host Phil Donahue. They met in 1977 when she appeared as a guest on his show, and they married in 1980. Their marriage lasted until Donahue’s passing in 2024. Thomas became a stepmother to Donahue’s five children from his previous marriage.
What charitable causes is Marlo Thomas involved in?
Marlo Thomas is actively involved in philanthropy, most notably with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, founded by her father, Danny Thomas. She serves as National Outreach Director and has raised millions to support the hospital’s mission. She is also a co-founder of the Ms. Foundation for Women, advocating for women’s rights and equality.
Wrapping Up
Marlo Thomas has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the world of philanthropy. From her breakthrough role in That Girl, which redefined the portrayal of women on television, to her tireless work with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Thomas’ impact extends far beyond the screen. Her $150 million net worth in 2024 reflects not only her professional success but also her ability to evolve and stay relevant across decades of changing media landscapes.