Burt Mustin was a Hollywood actor known for his long and successful career in television and film. While he started acting late in life, his career spanned over two decades, appearing in more than 150 productions.
Many wonder about his financial success—how much he earned and how it compared to his peers.
In this article, Aupeo delves into Burt Mustin net worth, salary, and financial journey, exploring the income sources that contributed to his wealth.
Burt Mustin Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Burton Hill Mustin |
| Popular Name | Burt Mustin |
| Birth Date | February 8, 1884 |
| Age | Died: January 28, 1977 (age 92 years) |
| Birthplace | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | Pennsylvania Military College (Civil Engineering) |
| Marital Status | Widowed |
| Spouse | Frances Robina Woods (m. 1915 – d. 1969) |
| Children | None |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | William I. Mustin (father), Sadie (Dorrington) Mustin (mother) |
| Height (meters) | N/A |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Source of Wealth | Acting (Film, TV, Radio, Stage) |
What is the Net Worth Of Burt Mustin in 2025?
Burt Mustin’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, but his career longevity suggests he had steady earnings throughout his time in Hollywood. Unlike many lead actors, character actors like Mustin often had lower salaries.
However, with over 150 film and television appearances, he likely earned a respectable income.
When comparing his wealth to other classic Hollywood actors, his earnings may not have reached the levels of lead stars but were likely on par with other long-term character actors.
While no financial records confirm his investments or savings, many actors from his era relied on union pensions and residual payments for financial stability.
Related People in Burt Mustin’s Career
- William Wyler
- James Cagney
- Art Carney
- Gene Kelly
- Lucille Ball
- Bea Arthur
- Clint Walker
- Burl Ives
- Sebastian Cabot
- Johnny Carson
Looking for more insights into Hollywood’s wealthiest stars? Check out the richest celebrities and see who made the list.
Burt Mustin Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Did He Earn From His Acting Career?
Burt Mustin began his professional acting career at 67, which is highly unusual in Hollywood. Despite his late start, he built a steady stream of income from television and film. While lead actors commanded high salaries, character actors like Mustin were typically paid on a per-episode or per-film basis.
Throughout his 26-year career, he appeared in:
- Over 150 TV shows and movies
- Recurring roles in popular sitcoms like Leave It to Beaver and The Andy Griffith Show
- Guest appearances on major TV series, including All in the Family and Batman
His financial success came from consistent work rather than large paychecks. The Hollywood pay structure at the time meant he likely earned per episode rather than long-term contracts.
What Were His Primary Sources of Income?
Mustin’s main source of income was acting, including:
- Television Shows – Regular guest roles and recurring characters.
- Movies – Appearances in films like Cat Ballou and The Ghost and Mr. Chicken.
- Stage and Radio – Before Hollywood, he performed in theater and radio shows.
- Talk Show Appearances – Frequently featured on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.
Unlike modern actors, Mustin’s era did not offer streaming residuals, but some reruns of popular TV shows could have provided additional income.
Did He Have Other Financial Investments or Income Streams?
There is no public record of Mustin investing in real estate, business ventures, or stocks. However, given his long career, he may have received payments from:
- Residuals from syndicated TV shows
- Union pensions from the Screen Actors Guild (SAG)
- Savings accumulated over decades of acting
While some actors struggled financially after retirement, Mustin continued working until shortly before his death, suggesting he remained financially stable.
How Did His Financial Status Compare to Other Actors of His Era?
Compared to A-list Hollywood stars, Burt Mustin’s income was modest. However, within the character actor community, he was among the more successful names.
During the 1950s–1970s, character actors were paid:
- TV Guest Stars: $500–$1,500 per episode (adjusted for inflation)
- Recurring TV Roles: Higher pay for multiple appearances
- Film Roles: Dependent on the budget and prominence of the film
Actors like Lucille Ball and Gene Kelly earned far more, but Mustin was one of the few who worked consistently for over two decades.
Did He Face Financial Struggles or Maintain Stability?
There is no evidence that Mustin faced financial hardship. His ability to continue working into his 90s suggests he maintained economic stability. Unlike some Hollywood actors who faced bankruptcy, Mustin’s steady career path likely helped him sustain his financial well-being.
How Did His Career Longevity Affect His Wealth?
Mustin’s 26-year Hollywood career meant he had consistent work and earnings. Longevity in acting often leads to:
- More financial opportunities
- Higher demand for roles
- Continued exposure leading to additional work
Although he was never a lead star, his ability to remain active in Hollywood for over two decades contributed to his wealth accumulation.
Conclusion
Burt Mustin may not have been among Hollywood’s wealthiest actors, but his steady career and long-term success ensured financial stability. His work in film, television, and radio provided him with consistent earnings over two decades. Interested in more celebrity financial insights? Visit Aupeo for the latest updates.
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