James Drury became a household name thanks to his role in The Virginian, one of the longest-running Western TV shows. His success in Hollywood spanned decades, leading to substantial earnings.
But how did he accumulate his wealth, and what were his main income sources? Keep reading as Aupeo breaks down James Drury net worth, career highlights, and earnings.
James Drury Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | James Child Drury Jr. |
| Popular Name | James Drury |
| Birth Date | April 18, 1934 |
| Age | 85 (Died: April 6, 2020) |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | University of California, Los Angeles, New York University |
| Marital Status | Widowed |
| Spouse | Carl Ann Head (m. 1979–2019), Phyllis Mitchell (m. 1968–1979), Cristall Orton (m. 1957–1964) |
| Children | 2 sons (including Timothy Drury), 1 stepdaughter, 2 stepsons |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | James Drury, Sr. |
| Height | 1.82 meters |
| Net Worth | $1.5 million (at the time of his death) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting |
What is the Net Worth of James Drury in 2025?
James Drury had an estimated net worth of $1.5 million at the time of his passing in 2020. Compared to his contemporaries in the Western TV genre, his earnings were modest but steady.
Unlike actors who transitioned into major Hollywood films, Drury primarily built his wealth through television roles, particularly The Virginian.
His financial standing remains significant in the entertainment industry, securing him a place among other notable actors.
Related People & Companies:
- The Virginian (TV Series)
- MGM Studios
- 20th Century Fox
- NBC
- Doug McClure
- Elvis Presley
- Chuck Norris
- Barry Goldwater
- Walker, Texas Ranger
- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
For a deeper dive into the financial standings of other famous actors, check out this list of the wealthiest TV stars.
James Drury Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did He Earn His Wealth?
James Drury’s wealth primarily came from acting. He began his career in the 1950s with small roles in MGM films.
However, his big break came in 1962 when he starred as the lead in The Virginian. This show ran for nine seasons and was one of NBC’s most successful Western dramas.
Apart from his television work, he also appeared in films like Love Me Tender alongside Elvis Presley and Ride the High Country. These roles, while not blockbusters, helped solidify his career and financial earnings.
What Were His Main Sources of Income?
Drury’s income was largely tied to his television roles. His primary sources of revenue included:
- Acting Contracts – His work with MGM Studios and 20th Century Fox provided early earnings.
- Television Royalties – Reruns of The Virginian contributed to his steady income.
- Guest Appearances – He had roles in Walker, Texas Ranger, Perry Mason, and other TV shows.
- USO Performances – He entertained troops in Vietnam, though financial details remain undisclosed.
How Did His Salary Compare to Other Western TV Stars?
At the height of his career, James Drury was among the leading faces of Western TV. However, his earnings did not reach the level of Hollywood A-listers.
Compared to Clint Eastwood, who transitioned to directing, or John Wayne, who dominated Western films, Drury’s financial success was more modest. Nevertheless, his earnings from The Virginian kept him financially stable for decades.
What Assets and Investments Did He Own?
While there is limited public information on Drury’s personal assets, some notable aspects include:
- Real Estate – He spent part of his life on a ranch, aligning with his Western roles.
- Memorabilia – As a well-known Western star, he likely owned collectible props from The Virginian.
- Financial Holdings – Though his major earnings came from acting, any additional investments remain undisclosed.
How Did His Finances Change Over Time?
Drury’s wealth saw fluctuations over the years. His peak financial years were during the 1960s and early 1970s when The Virginian was a major hit. However, as the Western genre declined in popularity, his earnings slowed down.
By the 1990s and 2000s, he made occasional TV appearances but was no longer in high-demand roles. His financial stability came from past earnings and public appearances at Western film conventions.
Did His Wealth Influence His Personal Life?
Drury lived a comfortable but not overly extravagant life. His focus was on his family, career, and love for Western culture.
He supported Barry Goldwater in politics, showing an interest in conservative values. Despite his Hollywood career, he maintained a connection to rural life, spending time on his mother’s farm.
His son, Timothy Drury, pursued a career in music, working with famous bands like the Eagles and Whitesnake. While James Drury was not among Hollywood’s wealthiest figures, his legacy remains strong in the world of Western television.
Conclusion
James Drury built his fortune primarily through The Virginian and other television roles. While his net worth wasn’t among the highest in Hollywood, his impact on Western TV remains undeniable.
What do you think of his financial journey? Share your thoughts, and explore more celebrity finances on Aupeo!
