How did Viola Davis rise from humble beginnings to become one of Hollywood’s highest-paid actresses? With an Oscar, Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award, she’s not only a powerhouse in the industry but also a financially successful celebrity.
Her career spans decades, from theater to blockbuster films and TV hits like How to Get Away with Murder. Beyond acting, she has built a fortune through production work, brand endorsements, and real estate investments.
Let’s dive into Viola Davis net worth, her annual income, and how she manages her wealth in 2025.
Viola Davis Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Viola Davis |
| Popular Name | Viola Davis |
| Birth Date | August 11, 1965 |
| Age | 59 (as of March 2025) |
| Birthplace | St. Matthews, South Carolina, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | The Juilliard School, Rhode Island College, Central Falls High School |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Julius Tennon (m. 2003) |
| Children | One adopted child, stepmother to two |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Six |
| Parents | Mae Alice Davis, Dan Davis |
| Height | 1.65 meters |
| Net Worth | $25 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Film Production, Real Estate |
What is the Net Worth Of Viola Davis in 2025?
As of 2025, Viola Davis’ net worth is estimated at $25 million. She is among the most financially successful actresses in Hollywood, thanks to her award-winning career and smart financial decisions.
Compared to other top actresses, Davis has built a strong financial portfolio by balancing high-paying acting roles, brand endorsements, and real estate investments. She reportedly earned $15 million between 2019 and 2020, placing her among Hollywood’s highest-paid actresses at the time.
Related People & Companies
- Julius Tennon
- JuVee Productions
- Academy Awards
- Tony Awards
- Primetime Emmy Awards
- L’Oréal Paris
- Rhode Island College
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- How to Get Away with Murder
- The Woman King
Interested in learning about other financially successful celebrities? Check out this list of Hollywood’s wealthiest stars.
Viola Davis Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did She Build Her Wealth?
Viola Davis built her wealth through a combination of acting, producing, brand endorsements, and real estate investments.
- Early Career & Breakthrough: She started in theater, earning her first Tony Award in 2001. By 2010, she had won a second Tony for Fences.
- Hollywood Success: Her performance in The Help (2011) boosted her profile. But it was her role as Annalise Keating in How to Get Away with Murder that made her one of TV’s highest-paid actresses.
- Production Work: She co-founded JuVee Productions with her husband, Julius Tennon, focusing on diverse storytelling.
- Endorsements: She became a L’Oréal Paris ambassador in 2019, adding another revenue stream.
How Much Does She Earn Annually?
Her annual earnings fluctuate based on projects and endorsements. While she earned $15 million in 2019-2020, her current salary depends on her ongoing TV, film, and production deals.
- TV Salary: How to Get Away with Murder reportedly paid her $250,000 per episode at its peak.
- Film Salary: She commands millions per movie, with The Woman King (2022) and Suicide Squad (2021) adding to her financial success.
- Endorsements: Deals like L’Oréal Paris contribute to her yearly income.
What Are Her Primary Sources of Income?
Viola Davis has multiple income streams:
- Acting – Films & TV shows (The Help, Fences, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom)
- Producing – JuVee Productions
- Endorsements – L’Oréal Paris, other partnerships
- Real Estate – Owning & selling high-value properties
- Public Speaking & Book Sales – Memoir Finding Me
What Properties and Assets Does She Own?
Davis has made strategic real estate investments.
- Toluca Lake Estate – Purchased for $5.7 million in 2016, featuring a private theater, wine cellar, and luxury outdoor space.
- Previous Homes – Sold a Los Angeles property for $1.15 million in 2017.
Her investments in real estate help diversify her wealth, providing long-term financial security.
How Has Her Financial Status Evolved Over Time?
Viola Davis’ financial journey showcases steady growth:
- Early struggles – She grew up in poverty before pursuing acting.
- First major earnings – Theater success with Fences and King Hedley II.
- Hollywood breakthrough – Films like Doubt and The Help increased her income.
- Television fame – How to Get Away with Murder made her a top-paid actress.
- Production & investments – She now co-owns JuVee Productions, adding financial stability.
How Does She Use Her Wealth?
Beyond personal luxuries, Davis is deeply involved in philanthropy.
- Charity Work: Supports hunger relief programs, civil rights activism, and education for underprivileged communities.
- Empowering Women: She invests in projects supporting women of color in the entertainment industry.
- Family Life: She prioritizes financial security for her husband and children.
What Can We Learn from Her Financial Journey?
Viola Davis’ success offers valuable lessons:
- Diversify income – Acting, producing, endorsements, and real estate keep her wealth growing.
- Invest in the future – Her production company ensures long-term success.
- Use wealth for impact – She actively supports causes she believes in.
Conclusion
Viola Davis’ journey from struggles to Hollywood success is inspiring. Her ability to balance blockbuster earnings, smart investments, and philanthropy makes her one of Hollywood’s most financially savvy actresses.
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