Joan Crawford Net Worth How Much Is Joan Crawford Worth?

May 2024 · 14 minute read

Joan Crawford, the acclaimed American actress and theatrical performer, had a net worth of $2 million at the time of her death in 1977. Adjusted for inflation, her net worth would be equivalent to around $10 million in today’s dollars. Crawford gained fame and recognition for her iconic roles in films during the Hollywood silent film and golden eras, such as “Mildred Pierce” and “The Damned Don’t Cry.” Her talent and beauty captivated audiences, and she was honored with the Academy Award for Best Actress in 1946 for her outstanding performance in “Mildred Pierce.”

joan crawford net worth

Key Takeaways

Early Life

Joan Crawford, born Lucille Fay LeSueur on March 23, 1904, in San Antonio, Texas, had a tumultuous early life. Her parents separated shortly after her birth, and tragically, her older sister passed away.

After her parents’ separation, Crawford’s mother remarried, and the family relocated to Lawton, Oklahoma. It was during this time that Crawford developed a deep interest in the performing arts. She would often watch shows at the Ramsey Opera House, where her stepfather worked, and this exposure fueled her passion for the stage and cinema.

Unfortunately, Crawford’s early years were not without hardship. Financial difficulties plagued her family, and as a result, her education suffered significantly. Eventually, she made the difficult decision to drop out of college, but her determination to pursue a career in entertainment remained steadfast.

“I never go outside unless I look like Joan Crawford the movie star. If you want to see the girl next door, go next door.” – Joan Crawford

EventYear
Born1904
Parents Separated
Relocated to Lawton, Oklahoma
Dropped Out of College

Career Highlights

Joan Crawford’s career began in the 1920s when she signed a contract with MGM. Initially, she had smaller roles, but her ambition and determination led to bigger parts. Crawford worked on improving her dance skills and participated in competitions to increase her name recognition. She transitioned seamlessly into sound movies and became known for her roles in romantic dramas and sophisticated films.

One of her most notable films was “Mildred Pierce,” for which she won an Academy Award in 1946. The film, based on the novel by James M. Cain, tells the story of a woman’s journey from waitress to successful businesswoman. Crawford’s powerful performance in the lead role solidified her status as a Hollywood star, and she showcased her versatility as an actress in both dramatic and glamorous roles.

“Mildred Pierce” was a milestone in Joan Crawford’s career, showcasing her ability to captivate audiences with her emotion and depth. She embodied the complex character of Mildred Pierce, displaying strength and vulnerability in equal measure.

Despite her success, Crawford faced a decline in popularity in the late 1930s. In 1938, an article titled “Box Office Poison” labeled her as one of the actors whose films had consistently underperformed at the box office. Undeterred, Crawford persevered and continued to act in films, showcasing her talent and versatility in a variety of roles.

Crawford’s Notable Films:

FilmYear Released
Mildred Pierce1945
The Women1939
Johnny Guitar1954
Grand Hotel1932
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?1962

Joan Crawford’s filmography showcases her range as an actress, spanning various genres and eras. From drama to romance to suspense, Crawford’s performances left a lasting impact on the silver screen and solidified her place as one of Hollywood’s iconic leading ladies.

Personal Life

Joan Crawford’s personal life was marked by multiple marriages and the adoption of four children. She had a total of four marriages throughout her life, each with its own unique circumstances.

  • James Welton: In 1925, Crawford married James Welton, a saxophone player. However, their marriage was short-lived and never discussed in later life.
  • Douglas Fairbanks Jr.: Crawford’s second marriage was to Douglas Fairbanks Jr., a Hollywood royalty. They got married in 1929 but divorced in 1934 due to disapproval from Fairbanks’ family.
  • Franchot Tone: Crawford’s third marriage was to Franchot Tone, and their relationship sparked a feud between Crawford and fellow actress Bette Davis. Despite their differences, Crawford and Tone remained married from 1935 to 1939.
  • Alfred Steele: Crawford’s final marriage was to Alfred Steele, the president of Pepsi-Cola. They tied the knot in 1955, but sadly, Steele passed away in 1959.
  • Alongside her marriages, Joan Crawford was also known for her role as a mother. She adopted four children throughout her life, and their presence brought joy and challenges to her personal journey.

    ChildYear of Adoption
    Christina Crawford1940
    Christopher Crawford1943
    Cathy Crawford1947
    Cindy Crawford1947

    Joan Crawford’s personal life was a mix of achievement, love, and adversity. Her marriages and motherhood experiences shaped her journey as an actress and as a woman.

    Feud with Bette Davis and “Mommie Dearest”

    Joan Crawford and Bette Davis, both prominent actresses of their time, had a well-known feud that captivated the public’s attention. The rivalry between the two women was ignited when they both became involved with Franchot Tone, a fellow actor. In an attempt to push Davis out of the picture, Crawford married Tone, which only fueled the flames of their animosity.

    The feud between Joan Crawford and Bette Davis reached its peak during the filming of “What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?” in 1962, where they starred together. As tensions rose on set, the clash of their personalities became increasingly apparent, leading to intense conflicts and verbal sparring matches.

    “You should never say bad things about the dead, you should only say good […] Joan Crawford is dead. Good.” – Bette Davis

    In 2017, their bitter feud was brought to life again in the FX television series “Feud: Bette and Joan,” which examined the behind-the-scenes drama and explored the complex relationship between the two Hollywood legends.

    While Joan Crawford’s professional rivalry with Bette Davis was widely publicized, her personal life was also marred by controversy, particularly her relationship with her adopted children. It was her daughter Christina Crawford who would ultimately shed light on their tumultuous dynamic. Christina wrote a memoir titled “Mommie Dearest,” where she depicted Joan Crawford as an abusive and controlling mother.

    “No wire hangers!” – Joan Crawford (as portrayed by Faye Dunaway in the film adaptation of “Mommie Dearest”)

    The memoir was later adapted into a film, starring Faye Dunaway as Joan Crawford, which further intensified public interest in Joan’s personal life. However, the accuracy of Christina’s portrayal has been debated, with other adopted siblings contesting her depiction of their mother.

    Joan Crawford’s Adopted Children

    Throughout her life, Joan Crawford adopted four children. Alongside Christina, she also adopted Christopher, Cathy, and Cindy. However, her relationship with Christina was particularly strained, with allegations of physical and emotional abuse detailed in “Mommie Dearest.”

    Despite the controversies that surrounded her personal life, Joan Crawford’s legacy endures as one of the iconic figures in the history of Hollywood. The feuds she engaged in and the challenges she faced in her relationships only add to the complexity of her life and the enduring fascination with her story.

    joan crawford feud

    Death and Legacy

    Joan Crawford, a legendary actress and icon of the golden era of Hollywood, passed away on May 10, 1977, at the age of 69 or 73 (uncertainty exists about her actual birthdate). Her untimely demise was attributed to a heart attack, although she had been experiencing deteriorating health prior to her passing. The world mourned the loss of one of its most glamorous and talented stars.

    At the time of her death, Crawford left behind an estate worth millions of dollars, approximately $2 million. Adjusted for inflation, this would be equivalent to around $8 million in today’s currency. Her estate included various properties, assets, and investments accumulated throughout her successful career in the entertainment industry.

    Crawford’s will contained some surprising provisions. She disinherited her two older children, Christina and Christopher, from her estate. Instead, she bequeathed her assets to her younger twins, Cathy and Cindy, and allocated a portion to charitable causes. This decision sparked controversy and speculation about the strained relationships within the Crawford family.

    Despite the controversies surrounding her personal life, Joan Crawford’s legacy as an actress and fashion icon endures. She was a trailblazer in her time, known for her beauty, talent, and exceptional performances in films such as “Mildred Pierce” and “The Damned Don’t Cry.” Crawford’s impact on the silver screen and her contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be celebrated to this day.

    Joan Crawford - Iconic Actress

    Joan Crawford’s Legacy:

    Early Career and Self-Promotion

    Before achieving stardom, Joan Crawford began her journey as a dancer in various traveling theatrical companies. Her talent and determination eventually led her to Broadway, where she hoped to find more substantial roles. However, Crawford faced frustrations as she was often given smaller parts that didn’t showcase her true potential.

    Determined to make her mark, Crawford took matters into her own hands and embarked on a campaign of self-promotion. She recognized the importance of increasing her visibility in the industry and seized every opportunity to do so. Crawford attended dances and competitions, where she could showcase her skills and attract attention from influential individuals.

    Through her relentless self-promotion efforts, Crawford managed to capture the attention of MGM studios. They recognized her talent and offered her a contract, marking the beginning of her remarkable career in the film industry.

    “I realized that if I wanted to be seen, I had to be my own advocate. So I attended every event and competition I could, eager to prove myself and show the world what I was capable of.”

    Crawford’s dedication to self-promotion paid off, as she successfully transitioned from stage to screen. Her early career journey serves as an inspiration to young artists, highlighting the power of determination and personal branding in achieving one’s dreams.

    Joan Crawford Early Career

    YearFilmRole
    1925Lady of the NightPedestrian (uncredited)
    1926ParisWoman (uncredited)
    1927Spring FeverAllerdyce Benton
    1928Our Dancing DaughtersDiana Medford
    1929The Duke Steps OutSue (voice, uncredited)

    Table: Joan Crawford’s Early Filmography

    Successes and Comeback

    Joan Crawford’s career soared to new heights with the release of the film “Our Dancing Daughters” in 1928. This movie propelled her into the spotlight and established her as a symbol of modern femininity in the vibrant 1920s. Crawford’s radiant presence and undeniable talent caught the attention of audiences and critics alike, solidifying her status as one of the most sought-after actresses of the era.

    Throughout her career, Joan Crawford had the opportunity to work alongside the top male stars of the time, creating memorable on-screen partnerships that captivated audiences. Her versatile performances in films like “Dance, Fools, Dance” and “Grand Hotel” showcased her range as an actress, earning her widespread acclaim and adoration.

    After a brief hiatus from the screen, Joan Crawford made a triumphant comeback with her role in “Mildred Pierce” in 1945. This compelling film marked a turning point in her career and showcased her exceptional talent in a new light. The emotionally charged performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, solidifying her comeback and reaffirming her place among the Hollywood elite.

    Joan Crawford’s success and comeback were not a stroke of luck, but a testament to her resilience, hard work, and dedication to her craft. Her ability to reinvent herself and deliver captivating performances propelled her to the pinnacle of fame and secured her enduring legacy in the entertainment industry.

    Joan Crawford Successful Films

    Award-winning Films

    Film TitleAwards
    Mildred PierceAcademy Award for Best Actress
    HumoresqueNominated for Academy Award for Best Actress
    Sudden FearNominated for Academy Award for Best Actress
    The WomenNominated for Academy Award for Best Picture

    Unhappy Endings and Retired Life

    Towards the end of the 1930s, Joan Crawford’s popularity began to decline, and she faced a challenging period in her career. She was labeled as “box office poison” due to a string of box office failures. However, Crawford continued to persevere and appeared in films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, even though finding substantial roles became increasingly difficult.

    One of the notable films of this period was the 1970 horror film “Trog,” which marked Crawford’s final on-screen appearance before retiring from acting. The film received negative reviews and failed to revive her career. After its release, Crawford decided to step away from the spotlight and lead a more private life.

    Crawford’s retirement was further solidified by a public appearance in 1974, during which unflattering photographs of her were published in the media. These images, coupled with her declining popularity, led Crawford to withdraw from public life and become increasingly reclusive.

    Although her career ended on a somber note, Joan Crawford’s contributions to the entertainment industry and her iconic performances continue to be celebrated and remembered today. Let us now explore her personal life, particularly her relationships and controversies surrounding her adopted children.

    Children and Controversies

    Joan Crawford, known for her illustrious acting career, also had a complex personal life involving her relationships with her children. Throughout her life, Crawford adopted four children. However, it was her interactions with her two older children, Christina and Christopher, that garnered the most attention and controversy.

    Christina Crawford, Joan’s daughter, wrote a memoir titled “Mommie Dearest,” which shed light on her upbringing and depicted Joan Crawford as an abusive and controlling mother. The book, published in 1978, became a bestseller and later inspired a film adaptation. Despite the memoir’s controversial nature, its accuracy has been a subject of debate.

    “Mommie Dearest” paints a dark and disturbing image of Joan Crawford, portraying her as a volatile and unpredictable parent. However, it is important to note that the veracity of the memoir’s claims has been questioned by Joan Crawford’s other adopted children, Cathy and Cindy.

    While the exact dynamics of Joan Crawford’s relationships with her children may never be fully known, the controversies surrounding her parenting have sparked discussions about the private life of this iconic Hollywood figure.

    Joan Crawford’s Children

    Here is a breakdown of Joan Crawford’s adopted children:

    NameYear of Adoption
    Christina Crawford1940
    Christopher Crawford1943
    Cathy Crawford LaLonde1947
    Cynthia Crawford-Harrell1947

    It is worth noting that despite the controversies surrounding her personal life, Joan Crawford’s acting career and contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be celebrated today.

    Joan Crawford with her children

    Contributions and Enduring Legacy

    Joan Crawford, despite the controversies surrounding her personal life, made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. She emerged as one of Hollywood’s most prominent movie stars during her career and was revered as one of the highest-paid women in the United States. Crawford’s performances in iconic films such as “Mildred Pierce” continue to be celebrated for their depth and brilliance. Her on-screen presence and talent captivated audiences, establishing her as a true cinematic legend.

    In addition to her acting prowess, Crawford’s influence on fashion and glamour in the 1920s and 1930s cannot be overstated. She set trends with her unique style, elegance, and charisma. Crawford became a fashion icon, inspiring countless women across the globe with her confident and impeccable sense of fashion.

    Today, Joan Crawford’s enduring legacy lives on. Her impact on the entertainment industry and her influence on fashion are still felt, as she remains an indelible figure in the history of Hollywood. Despite the controversies that surrounded her personal life, her immense talent and contributions solidify her status as a true icon of the silver screen.

    FAQ

    What was Joan Crawford’s net worth?

    Joan Crawford had a net worth of million at the time of her death in 1977, which is equivalent to around million in today’s dollars.

    What were Joan Crawford’s most recognized films?

    Joan Crawford was most recognized for her roles in films such as “Mildred Pierce” and “The Damned Don’t Cry” during the Hollywood silent film and golden eras.

    Did Joan Crawford win any awards for her acting?

    Yes, Joan Crawford won the 1946 Academy Award for Best Actress for her work in “Mildred Pierce.”

    How many times was Joan Crawford married?

    Joan Crawford was married four times throughout her life.

    What was Joan Crawford’s relationship with Bette Davis?

    Joan Crawford and Bette Davis had a well-known feud that began when both women were involved with Franchot Tone.

    Did Joan Crawford have any children?

    Yes, Joan Crawford adopted four children throughout her life.

    What was Joan Crawford’s cause of death?

    Joan Crawford passed away from a heart attack on May 10, 1977.

    How much was Joan Crawford’s estate worth?

    Joan Crawford’s estate was worth approximately million at the time of her death, which is equivalent to around million today.

    How did Joan Crawford start her career?

    Joan Crawford started her career as a dancer in traveling theatrical companies before eventually making her way to Broadway.

    What were some of Joan Crawford’s successful films?

    Joan Crawford had successes in films like “Our Dancing Daughters” and “Mildred Pierce.”

    Why did Joan Crawford retire?

    Joan Crawford retired from acting after the release of “Trog” in 1970 and withdrew from public life.

    Were there controversies surrounding Joan Crawford’s personal life?

    Yes, controversies surrounded Joan Crawford’s personal life, including her strained relationships with her children and the memoir “Mommie Dearest” written by her daughter, Christina.

    What is Joan Crawford’s enduring legacy?

    Joan Crawford left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry as one of Hollywood’s most prominent movie stars and an influence on fashion and glamour in the 1920s and 1930s.

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