How much has Carol Lawrence earned throughout her career? Best known for her iconic role as Maria in West Side Story, she became a Broadway legend.
But beyond the stage, she expanded her income through television, books, and even a cooking show.
Despite her success, details about her wealth and salary remain private. However, by examining her Broadway earnings, TV roles, and other ventures, we can get an idea of her financial standing. Let’s dive into her financial journey and discover how she built her career.
Carol Lawrence Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Carolina Maria Laraia |
| Popular Name | Carol Lawrence |
| Birth Date | September 5, 1932 |
| Age (As of 03/18/2025) | 92 |
| Birthplace | Melrose Park, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Italian-American |
| Education | Proviso Township High School, Northwestern University (1 year) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse(s) | John Gregory (m. 1982–1983), Robert Goulet (m. 1963–1981), Cosmo Allegretti (m. 1956–1959) |
| Children | 2 (Christopher Goulet, Michael Goulet) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | Italian ancestry (Father from Trivigno, Potenza, Italy) |
| Height | 1.65 meters |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Singing, Writing, Television |
What is the Net Worth of Carol Lawrence in 2025?
While Carol Lawrence’s net worth has never been publicly disclosed, it’s clear that her wealth comes from multiple sources. From her time on Broadway to her TV appearances and book sales, she has had a long and successful career.
Compared to other Broadway legends like Robert Goulet and Barbara Cook, her financial success remains modest in public records.
Unlike Hollywood actors, most Broadway stars earn their wealth through live performances, royalties, and side ventures.
For more insights into the richest Broadway stars and celebrities, check out this list of top-earning entertainers.
Notable People and Companies Related to Carol Lawrence
- Robert Goulet
- Barbara Cook
- West Side Story (Musical)
- The Tony Awards
- Food Network
- General Hospital
- Broadway Theaters
- The Muny Theater
- Lauren Bacall
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
Carol Lawrence Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Did She Earn from Broadway and Musical Theater?
Carol Lawrence’s most notable role was Maria in West Side Story (1957), which earned her a Tony Award nomination. While Broadway actors at the time didn’t make Hollywood-level salaries, long-running productions provided a steady income.
She starred in several major productions, including:
- Saratoga (1959)
- Subways Are for Sleeping (1961)
- I Do! I Do! (1967)
- Kiss of the Spider Woman (1992–93)
Her return to Broadway in Waiting in the Wings (1999) alongside Lauren Bacall marked the later years of her theater career. Though exact salary figures aren’t available, top Broadway actors today earn six figures per year, and she was among the leading stars of her time.
What Are Her Main Sources of Income?
Beyond Broadway, Carol Lawrence earned money from multiple sources:
- Television Acting: She had roles in General Hospital, Murder, She Wrote, Saved by the Bell, and Sex and the City.
- Book Sales: She wrote Carol Lawrence: The Backstage Story, sharing insights into her life and career.
- Cookbook & Food Network: She appeared on Food Network’s Chef du Jour show, promoting her cookbook I Remember Pasta, which became a best-seller.
How Did Her Financial Success Change Over Time?
Her career peaked during the 1950s–1980s, with steady earnings from Broadway and television. However, as film and TV actors began to dominate the entertainment industry, fewer Broadway stars reached mainstream financial success.
During her later years, she focused on writing, hosting, and occasional acting roles. Her long career ensured a stable income, but unlike modern Broadway stars, she did not benefit from major sponsorships or streaming royalties.
Did She Have Other Business Ventures or Investments?
While no public record of major investments exists, Carol Lawrence diversified her career through books, cooking shows, and stage performances.
Unlike some Broadway stars who invest in real estate or production companies, she seemed to focus on performance-based income.
What Role Did Television and Film Play in Her Finances?
While Broadway was her primary career, television played a significant role in her financial stability. She appeared in hit TV shows like:
- General Hospital (1991–1993)
- The Six Million Dollar Man
- Murder, She Wrote
- Marcus Welby, M.D.
- Kung Fu
TV actors typically earn more than theater performers due to syndication royalties. While Carol Lawrence did not headline major TV shows, her guest roles added to her income.
How Did Personal Life Influence Her Financial Journey?
Carol Lawrence was married three times, most notably to Robert Goulet, another Broadway icon.
In her autobiography, she mentioned financial struggles during their marriage, particularly due to Goulet’s alcohol problems. Their divorce in 1981 may have impacted her finances.
What Are Her Most Notable Career Achievements?
- Tony Award Nomination for West Side Story
- Starring in multiple Broadway productions
- Appearing in iconic TV series
- Writing a best-selling autobiography
- Hosting Food Network cooking shows
How Does She Compare Financially to Other Broadway Stars?
Compared to stars like Robert Goulet and Barbara Cook, her financial success was moderate. Unlike Hollywood actors, Broadway stars rely on live performances, book deals, and side projects. However, her long career and multiple revenue streams ensured a comfortable lifestyle.
Conclusion
Carol Lawrence’s career spanned over six decades, making her a Broadway icon. While her net worth remains private, her success in theater, television, and publishing showcases her financial achievements.
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