Kelly McGillis has been a recognizable name in Hollywood since the 1980s. Best known for her roles in Top Gun and Witness, she built a career spanning films, television, and theater.
But how much has she earned from her work? What financial challenges has she faced?
In this article, Aupeo breaks down Kelly McGillis net worth, her earnings from acting, and how she manages her finances today. Whether you’re a fan or just curious about celebrity wealth, this deep dive will give you all the insights.
Kelly McGillis Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Kelly Ann McGillis |
| Popular Name | Kelly McGillis |
| Birth Date | July 9, 1957 |
| Age (as of 03/07/2025) | 67 years old |
| Birthplace | Newport Beach, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Scots-Irish, German, Welsh |
| Education | Juilliard School, Allan Hancock College, Newport Harbor High School, Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Melanie Leis (m. 2010–2011), Fred Tillman (m. 1989–2002), Boyd Black (m. 1979–1981) |
| Children | 2 daughters (Kelsey & Sonora) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | 2 younger sisters |
| Parents | Donald Manson McGillis (father), Virginia Joan Snell (mother) |
| Height | 1.78 meters |
| Net Worth (2025) | $4 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting (Film, TV, Theater) |
What is the Net Worth Of Kelly McGillis in 2025?
As of 2025, Kelly McGillis net worth is estimated at $4 million. While this may seem modest compared to other Hollywood veterans, her financial standing reflects her selective career choices.
Unlike many actors, she stepped away from mainstream films and focused more on stage performances and personal ventures.
For comparison, her former Top Gun co-star Tom Cruise has an estimated net worth in the hundreds of millions, while Val Kilmer, another co-star, has a lower net worth due to health-related setbacks.
Related Celebrities & Industry Figures
- Tom Cruise
- Val Kilmer
- Harrison Ford
- Jodie Foster
- Warren Beatty
- Rob Reiner
- Alan Rudolph
- Jessica Tandy
- Jeff Daniels
- Tony Scott
Looking for more information on Hollywood’s wealthiest stars? Check out our list of top-earning celebrities.
Kelly McGillis Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Does She Earn from Acting?
Kelly McGillis made significant earnings from her Hollywood career, with her biggest paychecks coming from movies like Top Gun, Witness, and The Accused.
- Breakthrough Role: Witness (1985) earned her a Golden Globe and BAFTA nomination, boosting her career financially.
- Highest-Grossing Film: Top Gun (1986), where she starred alongside Tom Cruise, solidified her Hollywood presence.
- Other Film Earnings: She continued to work in independent films and horror movies, including Stake Land and The Innkeepers.
- TV and Theater Income: She also had earnings from Broadway and TV roles, including The L Word and Z Nation.
What Are Her Main Sources of Income?
McGillis’ wealth comes from multiple sources:
- Film & TV acting: Her primary income came from her early success in Hollywood.
- Theater performances: She starred in numerous Shakespearean plays and The Graduate on tour.
- Narration & voice work: She provided narration for PBS documentaries.
- Teaching & mentoring: She taught acting at NYS3 in Asheville, North Carolina.
- Business ventures: She co-owned a restaurant and bar in Key West.
Did She Face Any Financial Setbacks?
Despite a successful career, she encountered some financial struggles:
- $1.5 million loss: Her luxury yacht, The Centurion, was destroyed in a fire in 1996.
- Career break: After starring in Cat Chaser (1989), she took a step back from acting, reducing her income.
- No major Hollywood roles in recent years: Unlike other actors who continue to earn from sequels and franchises, she opted for a quieter life.
How Does She Manage Her Finances Now?
McGillis now lives in Hendersonville, North Carolina, away from the Hollywood spotlight. Her income sources today include:
- Occasional acting gigs in smaller productions.
- Possible royalty earnings from past major films.
- Teaching and mentoring acting students.
While she may not have the wealth of an A-list celebrity, she has maintained financial stability through careful choices.
Has Her Wealth Increased or Decreased Over Time?
McGillis’ wealth has fluctuated over the years:
- 1980s-90s: Peak earnings from Hollywood blockbusters.
- 2000s: Shift to independent films and teaching.
- 2010s-Present: Reduced acting roles, focus on personal life.
Compared to the height of her career, her net worth has decreased due to fewer high-paying roles. However, she appears content with her lifestyle and financial standing.
Conclusion
Kelly McGillis built her fortune through acting, but she chose a path different from many Hollywood stars. With an estimated $4 million net worth, she has managed to stay financially stable despite career breaks and setbacks.
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