Mickey Rooney was once Hollywood’s highest-paid star, earning millions at his peak. However, despite his massive success, he faced financial struggles later in life. From lucrative MGM contracts to financial mismanagement and legal battles, his story is one of both fortune and downfall.
In this article, Aupeo explores Mickey Rooney net worth, his highest salaries, and the financial troubles that shaped his legacy.
Mickey Rooney Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Ninnian Joseph Yule Jr. |
| Popular Name | Mickey Rooney |
| Birth Date | September 23, 1920 |
| Age | Died: April 6, 2014 (age 93 years) |
| Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Scottish-American |
| Education | Hollywood Professional School, Fairfax High School |
| Marital Status | Married 8 times |
| Spouse(s) | Ava Gardner, Betty Jane Phillips, Martha Vickers, Elaine Mahnken, Barbara Ann Thomason, Marge Lane, Carolyn Hockett, Jan Chamberlin |
| Children | 9, including Tim Rooney, Michael Rooney, Teddy Rooney, Mickey Rooney Jr. |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | None (only child) |
| Parents | Joe Yule (father), Nellie W. Carter (mother) |
| Height | 1.57 m |
| Net Worth | $20,000 (At death in 2014) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Film Production, Radio, Vaudeville |
What is the Net Worth of Mickey Rooney in 2025?
As of 2025, Mickey Rooney’s net worth remains a subject of interest, though his estate at the time of his death in 2014 was valued at only $20,000.
Despite starring in over 300 films across nine decades, his wealth dwindled due to financial mismanagement, legal troubles, and personal expenses.
At the height of his career, Rooney was the highest-paid actor in Hollywood, earning $150,000 per year (equivalent to $2.5 million today). He was the top box-office star between 1939 and 1941, leading hit films like Boys Town, Babes in Arms, and Young Tom Edison.
However, multiple divorces, poor investments, and family financial abuse drained his earnings. Unlike fellow stars Spencer Tracy, Elizabeth Taylor, and Frank Sinatra, who secured lasting wealth, Rooney struggled financially in his later years.
Related Figures in His Career & Life:
- Judy Garland
- Ava Gardner
- Spencer Tracy
- Elizabeth Taylor
- Frank Sinatra
- Louis B. Mayer
- Dean Martin
- Grace Kelly
- Francis Ford Coppola
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)
For more insights on Hollywood’s highest-paid stars, explore the richest celebrities.
Mickey Rooney Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Much Did He Earn Throughout His Career?
At his peak, Mickey Rooney was Hollywood’s highest-paid actor, earning over $150,000 per year in the 1930s and 1940s (equivalent to $2.5 million today). MGM paid him $25,000 per movie, and he starred in blockbuster hits like Babes in Arms, National Velvet, and The Black Stallion.
Even in his later years, he still commanded six-figure salaries, earning:
- $250,000 for Night at the Museum (2005)
- $175,000 for Babe: Pig in the City (1997)
- $75,000 for The Black Stallion (1978)
What Were His Biggest Financial Successes and Setbacks?
Rooney’s financial highs came from being the top box-office star between 1939 and 1941, with MGM backing his career. However, his financial troubles began with eight costly divorces, gambling issues, and bad investments.
Some key setbacks include:
- Legal battles over financial abuse (Rooney sued his stepson for mismanaging his estate).
- Bankruptcy twice due to mounting debts and poor money management.
- Selling his home in 2012 for $1.3 million to pay off outstanding bills.
Why Did He Face Financial Problems Despite His Success?
Despite earning millions, Rooney faced constant financial instability. The reasons included:
- Multiple divorces: Expensive settlements drained his wealth.
- Gambling addiction: He lost large sums over the years.
- Family financial abuse: His stepson mismanaged his funds, leading to legal action.
- IRS debts: He owed significant back taxes, forcing him to liquidate assets.
How Did He Try to Recover From Financial Struggles?
Rooney made several attempts to rebuild his finances, including:
- Stage performances & Broadway revival (Sugar Babies earned him critical acclaim).
- Live tours: He performed with his wife, Jan Chamberlin, in Let’s Put on a Show.
- Advocating for elder financial protection: His later years were spent warning others about financial abuse.
What Happened to His Finances at the End of His Life?
By the time of his death in 2014, Mickey Rooney’s finances were in disarray. His estate was valued at only $18,000, and he owed medical bills and back taxes. Family disputes over his remaining wealth further complicated matters.
Despite his financial troubles, his legacy as one of Hollywood’s most iconic actors remains intact.
Conclusion
Mickey Rooney’s life was a rollercoaster of wealth and hardship. From being Hollywood’s highest-paid actor to battling financial ruin, his story serves as both an inspiration and a warning. If you enjoyed this deep dive into celebrity finances, visit aupeo.com for more insights! Let us know your thoughts in the comments and share this with others!
