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Marlo Thomas is a famous actress, producer, and writer. She became well-known in the 1960s for her role in That Girl. Over the years, she has worked in TV, movies, and books. She also helps raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which her father started.
As of 2025, Marlo Thomas net worth has $160 million. She makes money from old TV shows, book sales, and speaking events. She also invests in businesses and real estate. Her smart choices and hard work keep her financially strong.
Who Is Marlo Thomas?
Marlo Thomas was born Margaret Julia Thomas in 1937 in Detroit, Michigan. She grew up in a family that loved entertainment. Her father, Danny Thomas, was a famous comedian and started St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Watching her father inspired her to work in both acting and charity.
She studied at the University of Southern California before starting her acting career. In 1966, she became famous for playing Ann Marie in That Girl. The show was unique because it showed a strong, independent woman with a career. This made Marlo a symbol of women’s rights. She later became a producer, writer, and activist, fighting for gender equality and helping sick children.
Marlo Thomas Net Worth Over the Years
Marlo Thomas net worth has seen steady growth thanks to her diverse income streams:
- 2023: $150 million
- 2024: $155 million
- 2025: $160 million
This upward trend stems from royalties, investments, and her continued involvement in entertainment and philanthropy.
Breaking Down Marlo Thomas’s Wealth
1. Acting & Producing Career
- That Girl: The sitcom’s syndication deals continue to generate royalties’ decades after its finale. Marlo also owned a stake in the show, a rare move for actors at the time, ensuring long-term earnings.
- TV Films & Specials: She produced and starred in award-winning projects like Free to Be… You and Me (1974), a children’s special promoting inclusivity. Its success led to books, albums, and a Broadway adaptation.
- Later Roles: Guest appearances on shows like Friends (as Jennifer Aniston’s mother) and Law & Order: SVU kept her relevant in modern pop culture.
2. Bestselling Books
Marlo’s books blend self-help, memoir, and social commentary:
- Free to Be… You and Me (1974): A cultural phenomenon challenging gender stereotypes.
- The Right Words at the Right Time (2002): A collection of celebrity essays on pivotal life moments.
- Growing Up Laughing (2010): A memoir exploring her comedy roots.
These titles remain popular, contributing to her annual royalties.
3. Philanthropy & St. Jude
As National Outreach Director for St. Jude, Marlo champions the hospital her father founded. While she doesn’t earn a salary, her work amplifies her public image, leading to paid speaking engagements and partnerships. St. Jude’s fundraising events, like the annual “Thanks and Giving” campaign (which she co-created), have raised billions, indirectly boosting her influence and opportunities.
4. Investments & Real Estate
- Real Estate: Marlo and her husband, Phil Donahue, own a portfolio of luxury properties, including a penthouse in New York City and a waterfront estate in Martha’s Vineyard. These assets appreciate over time.
- Stock Market: She invests in tech, healthcare, and blue-chip companies, leveraging financial advisors to maintain a balanced portfolio.
5. Speaking Engagements
Marlo earns up to $50,000 per event for keynote speeches on women’s empowerment, resilience, and philanthropy. Corporate conferences, universities, and charity galas frequently book her.
How Marlo Thomas Spends Her Fortune?
- Philanthropy: She donates millions to St. Jude, women’s shelters, and education initiatives. In 2022, she pledged $1 million to support mental health programs for children.
- Luxury Homes: Her NYC penthouse features panoramic views, while Martha’s Vineyard home includes a private beach and art collection.
- Travel & Arts: An avid traveler, Marlo frequents Europe and supports theaters like Broadway’s Public Theater.
- Fashion: Known for her timeless style, she invests in designer pieces and has collaborated with brands on charity-focused collections.
Why Marlo Thomas Net Worth Continues to Grow
- Timeless Appeal: That Girl and Free to Be… remain culturally significant, ensuring steady royalties.
- Smart Reinvestment: She channels earnings into low-risk, high-reward ventures, including rental properties and dividend stocks.
- Legacy Projects: In 2024, she executive-produced a documentary on St. Jude’s 60th anniversary, adding to her producer credits.
- Media Presence: Regular interviews and social media shout-outs (via platforms managed by her team) keep her in the public eye.
FAQs About Marlo Thomas Net Worth
How Much Is Marlo Thomas Net Worth?
Marlo Thomas net worth has $160 million in 2025. She made her money from acting, books, and charity work. Her smart investments also help her wealth grow.
How Does Marlo Thomas Make Money?
Marlo Thomas still earns money in different ways. These include:
- Royalties – She gets paid when her old TV shows and movies are watched.
- Speaking Fees – She gets money for speaking at events.
- Book Sales – She earns money from selling books she has written.
- Investments – She has invested in businesses and real estate.
Does Marlo Thomas Own St. Jude Hospital?
No, she does not own St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Her father, Danny Thomas, started the hospital in 1962. Marlo helps raise money for it. She is an important part of the hospital’s charity work.
How Much Does She Donate to Charity?
Marlo Thomas gives millions of dollars to charity. She helps raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The exact amount she donates is private.
Who Is Richer – Marlo Thomas or Phil Donahue?
Marlo Thomas has more money than her husband, Phil Donahue. Marlo Thomas net worth is $160 million. Phil Donahue’s net worth is $25 million. He made his money from “The Phil Donahue Show.”
Marlo Thomas’s Legacy: More Than Money
Marlo’s wealth is a testament to her talent and business acumen, but her true impact lies in her advocacy. She broke barriers for women in TV, normalized conversations about gender roles, and helped St. Jude become a global leader in pediatric research. Even at 88, she remains active, proving that success isn’t just about net worth—it’s about using your voice to inspire change.
