Agnes Moorehead net worth remains a topic of curiosity for many fans of classic Hollywood. But how did she accumulate her wealth?
What was her salary during her prime acting years?
In this article, Aupeo explores the financial side of her career, including her earnings from Bewitched, film contracts, and estate.
Agnes Moorehead Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Agnes Robertson Moorehead |
| Popular Name | Agnes Moorehead |
| Birth Date | December 6, 1900 |
| Age | 73 (at death, April 30, 1974) |
| Birthplace | Clinton, Massachusetts, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | Muskingum College, University of Wisconsin, American Academy of Dramatic Arts |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Robert Gist (m. 1954–1958), John Griffith Lee (m. 1930–1952) |
| Children | None |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Peggy (Margaret Ann) |
| Parents | John Henderson Moorehead (father), Mary McCauley Moorehead (mother) |
| Height | 1.69 m |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Source of Wealth | Acting (film, TV, radio, theater), investments |
What is the Net Worth of Agnes Moorehead in 2025?
Despite her long and successful career, Agnes Moorehead’s net worth was never publicly disclosed. However, given her major roles in radio, film, and television, she was undoubtedly among the well-paid actresses of her time. Unlike modern-day Hollywood stars, her salary was significantly lower than today’s top-tier actors.
Moorehead’s earnings mainly came from her contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, her role as Endora in Bewitched, and various Broadway performances. Many of her contemporaries, like Elizabeth Montgomery and Orson Welles, had more financial exposure due to leading roles or producing credits.
Here are a few notable figures and companies related to Agnes Moorehead:
- Elizabeth Montgomery
- Orson Welles
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Academy Awards
- Golden Globe Awards
- Classic Hollywood Film Industry
- CBS Radio Mystery Theater
- 20th-Century American Actresses
For more insights into Hollywood’s wealthiest figures, check out this list of the most successful stars in entertainment.
Agnes Moorehead Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did She Earn Her Wealth?
Agnes Moorehead built her financial success through multiple entertainment avenues:
- Radio Success: She was a regular in Suspense and The Shadow, earning steady income.
- Hollywood Films: Her career took off with Citizen Kane, followed by The Magnificent Ambersons, earning her critical and financial recognition.
- Television: She gained widespread fame as Endora in Bewitched, which secured her financial stability.
- Stage Performances: She participated in Broadway productions like Don Juan in Hell and Gigi, further boosting her earnings.
While her wealth was substantial, she was not among Hollywood’s wealthiest actresses. Unlike modern-day celebrities with endorsement deals, her income came primarily from acting.
What Was Her Salary Throughout Her Career?
Moorehead’s salary varied over time.
- Early Career (1930s-1940s): She struggled financially at first, earning modest sums from radio before securing film roles.
- MGM Contract: She negotiated a $6,000-per-week contract, which was rare for actresses at that time.
- Bewitched Salary (1964–1972): Although exact figures are unknown, top actors in TV sitcoms during that era earned $5,000–$10,000 per episode. She likely earned on the higher end of this range due to her seniority.
Unlike actors today who receive royalties and syndication earnings, Moorehead’s contract likely did not include long-term financial benefits from Bewitched.
What Were Her Main Sources of Income?
Agnes Moorehead’s wealth came from multiple sources:
- Acting Contracts: Her work with MGM and other studios provided steady earnings.
- Television Salary: Her role in Bewitched was her most consistent source of income.
- Radio & Voice Acting: Her radio career was significant before Hollywood success.
- Theater & Broadway: She toured with Don Juan in Hell and starred in Gigi.
- Endorsements & Appearances: She occasionally participated in promotional events.
Unlike modern celebrities, Moorehead did not have brand endorsements, product lines, or sponsorship deals that contribute significantly to today’s celebrity wealth.
How Did She Manage Her Finances?
Moorehead was known for her careful financial management. She reportedly valued money, having experienced financial struggles in her early years.
- Conservative Spending: She lived comfortably but not extravagantly.
- Charitable Contributions: She left donations to Muskingum College and John Brown University.
- No Inheritance for Foster Son: Her will did not mention Sean Lee, her foster son.
Her estate was distributed among institutions rather than family members, highlighting her financial priorities.
What Happened to Her Estate After Her Passing?
Upon her death in 1974, her estate was allocated as follows:
Educational Donations:
Muskingum College received $25,000 for scholarships.
University of Wisconsin and Bradley University received part of her manuscript collection.
Real Estate & Assets:
Her farm in Ohio was given to John Brown University.
Her home in Beverly Hills went to her attorney, Franklin Rohner.
Personal Belongings:
Her mother, Mary, inherited her jewelry and clothing.
Moorehead’s financial decisions reflected her values, prioritizing education and philanthropy over personal wealth accumulation.
Conclusion
Agnes Moorehead may not have been among Hollywood’s wealthiest, but her financial legacy remains impressive.
From radio to Hollywood to Broadway, she managed to build a solid career and a respected name.
While details about her net worth remain undisclosed, her financial impact continues through scholarships and charitable donations.
For more insights into celebrity wealth, visit Aupeo! Share your thoughts in the comments or explore more financial profiles on our site.
