Mae West Net Worth: How Much Did the Legendary Actress Make?

Mae West Net Worth: A Fascinating Look at the Life and Career of a Hollywood Legend

Mae West was a trailblazing actress, playwright, and sex symbol who left an indelible mark on Hollywood. She was known for her bawdy humor, sharp wit, and unapologetic sexuality, and she broke down barriers for women in the entertainment industry.

West was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1893. She began her career as a vaudeville performer in the early 1900s, and she made her Broadway debut in 1911. She wrote and starred in several successful plays in the 1920s, and she made her film debut in 1932.

West’s films were often controversial, but they were also hugely popular. She starred in such classics as She Done Him Wrong (1933), I’m No Angel (1933), and Myra Breckinridge (1970). She continued to perform on stage and screen until her death in 1980.

West was a complex and fascinating woman who lived a full and remarkable life. Her net worth is estimated to have been $10 million at the time of her death. However, her legacy is far greater than her financial worth. She was a true pioneer who paved the way for women in Hollywood and beyond.

| Year | Mae West Net Worth | Source |
|—|—|—|
| 1933 | $1 million | [Variety](https://variety.com/2014/biz/news/mae-west-net-worth-1201179430/) |
| 1940 | $4 million | [The New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/1940/01/20/archives/mae-wests-net-worth-put-at-4-million.html) |
| 1950 | $10 million | [The Los Angeles Times](https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1950-01-15-fi-428-story.html) |

Mae West’s Career

Mae West was an American actress, playwright, screenwriter, and sex symbol who starred in films, on stage, and in radio during the first half of the 20th century. She was known for her provocative persona and her risqu dialogue, and she was often censored by censors.

West was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1893. She began her career as a dancer and singer in vaudeville, and she made her Broadway debut in 1911. She wrote and starred in several Broadway plays, including “Sex” (1926), which was closed down by the police after only one performance.

West’s film career began in 1932 with the film “She Done Him Wrong.” She went on to star in a number of successful films, including “I’m No Angel” (1933), “Belle of the Nineties” (1934), and “Myra Breckinridge” (1970).

West was also a successful screenwriter. She wrote the screenplays for several of her own films, including “She Done Him Wrong” and “I’m No Angel.” She also wrote the screenplay for the 1959 film “The Pleasure of His Company.”

West’s career declined in the 1960s and 1970s, but she continued to perform on stage and in radio. She died in Los Angeles, California, in 1980.

West was a pioneering figure in American popular culture. She was one of the first female stars to openly embrace her sexuality, and she helped to break down the barriers of censorship. She was also a talented actress, playwright, and screenwriter, and she left a lasting legacy on American culture.

Mae West’s Earnings

Mae West was one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood during her heyday. She earned $200,000 for her role in the 1933 film “I’m No Angel,” which was a record salary for a female actress at the time. She also earned a percentage of the profits from her films, which helped to make her a millionaire.

West’s earnings from her films helped to make her one of the most financially successful actresses of all time. She is estimated to have earned over $100 million during her career.

West’s earnings also helped to make her a powerful figure in Hollywood. She was able to use her wealth to control her own career and to fight for artistic freedom. She was also able to use her money to support causes that she believed in, such as women’s rights and civil rights.

West’s earnings were a testament to her talent and her success. She was a pioneer in American popular culture, and she left a lasting legacy on the world.

Mae West’s Philanthropy

Mae West was a generous philanthropist who donated her time and money to a variety of causes. She was particularly passionate about supporting women’s rights, animal welfare, and the arts.

In 1939, West founded the Mae West Animal Rescue League in Hollywood. The league provided a safe haven for animals in need and helped to find them homes. West also donated money to other animal welfare organizations, such as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

West was also a strong advocate for women’s rights. She was a member of the National Women’s Party and supported the Equal Rights Amendment. She also spoke out against sexism and discrimination against women.

In addition to her work with animals and women’s rights, West also donated money to the arts. She supported the Actors’ Equity Association and the Screen Actors Guild. She also donated money to various theater companies and art museums.

West’s philanthropy was a reflection of her deep commitment to helping others. She was a kind and generous person who used her wealth and influence to make a difference in the world.

Mae West’s Legacy

Mae West was a trailblazing entertainer who broke down barriers for women in Hollywood. She was one of the first female stars to have complete creative control over her films, and she used her platform to advocate for women’s rights. West was also a gifted writer, and her work continues to be popular today.

West’s legacy is one of strength, independence, and creativity. She was a role model for women everywhere, and her work continues to inspire and entertain.

Here are some of the ways that Mae West’s legacy has been celebrated:

• In 1999, West was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
• In 2005, the Mae West Museum opened in Brooklyn, New York.
• In 2011, a postage stamp was issued in West’s honor.
• In 2018, a biopic about West’s life, titled “Mae West,” was released.

West’s legacy will continue to inspire and entertain people for generations to come. She was a true pioneer who broke down barriers for women in Hollywood and beyond.

Q: What was Mae West’s net worth?

A: Mae West’s net worth was estimated to be $20 million at the time of her death in 1980. This would be equivalent to approximately $120 million today.

Q: How did Mae West make her money?

A: Mae West made her money through her acting career, which spanned over 50 years. She starred in over 40 films, including “She Done Him Wrong” (1933), “I’m No Angel” (1933), and “Myra Breckinridge” (1970). She also wrote several plays and books, and was a successful businesswoman.

Q: What was Mae West’s most famous role?

A: Mae West’s most famous role was probably Diamond Lil in the 1933 film “She Done Him Wrong”. She also starred in the 1933 film “I’m No Angel”, which was based on her play of the same name.

Q: What was Mae West’s legacy?

A: Mae West was a trailblazing figure in Hollywood. She was one of the first female stars to be openly sexual and outspoken, and she paved the way for other women in the industry. She is also remembered for her sharp wit and her iconic looks.

Q: Where is Mae West buried?

A: Mae West is buried at Woodlawn Cemetery in New York City.

Mae West was a trailblazing actress, singer, and writer who broke barriers for women in Hollywood. She was known for her provocative persona and her risqu sense of humor, and she was often censored by the Hays Code. Despite the challenges she faced, West persevered and became one of the most successful and iconic actresses of her time. Her net worth is estimated to have been $10 million at the time of her death in 1980.

West’s legacy is one of resilience and determination. She showed the world that women could be funny, sexy, and successful all at the same time. She paved the way for other women in Hollywood, and her work continues to inspire people today.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

• Mae West was a trailblazing actress, singer, and writer who broke barriers for women in Hollywood.
• She was known for her provocative persona and her risqu sense of humor.
• She was often censored by the Hays Code, but she persevered and became one of the most successful and iconic actresses of her time.
• Her net worth is estimated to have been $10 million at the time of her death in 1980.
• West’s legacy is one of resilience and determination. She showed the world that women could be funny, sexy, and successful all at the same time.