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Marlo Thomas Net Worth: How the Actress Built Her $150 Million Fortune

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4 days ago

September 21, 2025

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Introduction: Marlo Thomas’ $150 Million Net Worth

Marlo Thomas is a name that shines brightly in Hollywood history, not just for her acting but also for her work as a producer, author, and philanthropist. Today, Marlo Thomas’ net worth is estimated at $150 million, a figure she shared with her late husband, television legend Phil Donahue. Her fortune reflects a lifetime of hard work, smart career choices, and a deep commitment to causes close to her heart. From her groundbreaking television role in the 1960s to her continued influence in the worlds of entertainment and philanthropy, Marlo’s story is as inspiring as it is fascinating.

Quick Bio Information

Full Name: Margaret Julia “Marlo” Thomas
Date of Birth: November 21, 1937
Place of Birth: Detroit, Michigan, USA
Nationality: American
Profession: Actress, Producer, Author, Philanthropist
Famous For: Starring in That Girl and creating Free to Be… You and Me
Net Worth: $150 Million (as of 2025)
Spouse: Phil Donahue (m. 1980–2024)
Parents: Danny Thomas (comedian, philanthropist) and Rose Marie Cassaniti
Notable Awards: 5 Emmys, Golden Globe, Grammy, Presidential Medal of Freedom

Early Life and Background

Marlo Thomas was born on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, into a family deeply connected to the entertainment world. Her father was Danny Thomas, the well-known comedian and actor who later founded St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Her Lebanese and Italian roots gave her a rich cultural heritage, and she grew up in Beverly Hills, California, where she was surrounded by Hollywood’s golden era. Despite her family’s fame, Marlo pursued her own path. She attended the University of Southern California, earning a teaching degree before stepping into acting. Her early life prepared her for a career that would balance artistry with activism.

Breaking Into Hollywood

Like many aspiring actresses, Marlo Thomas began with small roles on popular television shows. She appeared on Ben Casey, Bonanza, and My Favorite Martian, gaining valuable experience in front of the camera. Her big stage break came in 1965 when she starred in Neil Simon’s play Barefoot in the Park in London. The play showcased her talent and opened doors for more significant opportunities. This early period of her career laid the foundation for the success and financial security she would later achieve.

The Success of That Girl

Marlo’s real breakthrough came in 1966 with the hit television series That Girl. For five seasons, she played Ann Marie, a young, independent actress living in New York City. The show was revolutionary because it centered on a single, career-driven woman—a storyline that had rarely been explored on television at the time. Audiences loved the character, and Marlo became a household name. Beyond the fame, the series also provided her with financial stability and industry respect, both of which contributed significantly to her wealth. That Girl remains a cultural milestone, often credited with paving the way for later shows featuring strong female leads.

Expanding Her Career Beyond Acting

After the success of That Girl, Marlo Thomas showed that she was more than just a television star. She turned her focus to projects that combined entertainment with social messages. In 1972, she created Free to Be… You and Me, a children’s project that included a book, music album, and television special. It promoted values of gender equality and diversity at a time when such topics were rarely discussed. The project became a cultural touchstone and highlighted Marlo’s ability to blend creativity with activism. She also wrote books, released children’s albums, and continued to act in both films and Broadway plays, proving her versatility across many platforms.

Major Awards and Career Achievements

Over the years, Marlo Thomas has earned widespread recognition for her work. She has won five Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and a Grammy Award for her children’s album. Her efforts in television and advocacy earned her the Women in Film Lucy Award, given to women who help change the portrayal of women in media. Beyond entertainment, she was awarded the Peabody Award for her philanthropic work and, in 2014, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. These awards are not just symbols of success but also reflect the lasting impact of her career.

Marlo Thomas’ Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Marlo Thomas’ net worth is $150 million. This fortune is the result of decades of work across television, film, Broadway, publishing, and music. Her wealth also includes earnings from book royalties and real estate investments. Much of her financial journey was shared with her husband, Phil Donahue, the pioneering talk show host. Their combined income and smart investments allowed them to build a substantial legacy. Today, Marlo Thomas stands as one of the most successful actresses of her generation, with a fortune that reflects both her talent and her vision.

Personal Life: Love Story with Phil Donahue

Marlo Thomas’ personal life is as compelling as her career. In 1977, she appeared as a guest on The Phil Donahue Show. The two felt an instant connection and married in 1980. Marlo became stepmother to Phil’s five children, embracing her role with love and dedication. The couple’s marriage lasted more than four decades until Phil’s passing in 2024 at the age of 88. Their relationship was one of mutual respect and admiration, and together they became a power couple admired for both their professional accomplishments and their shared values.

Philanthropy and Giving Back

Philanthropy has always been central to Marlo Thomas’ life. In 1973, she co-founded the Ms. Foundation for Women, the first women’s fund in the United States. She has also been deeply involved with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, serving as National Outreach Director. Many of her book royalties and children’s album proceeds were donated to St. Jude, helping to fund life-saving research and treatment for children with cancer and other serious illnesses. Her dedication to giving back has made her as respected in the world of charity as she is in entertainment.

Real Estate Investments

Like many wealthy celebrities, Marlo Thomas and Phil Donahue invested wisely in real estate. In 1986, they purchased a 17-room home in Westport, Connecticut, and later expanded the property with an adjoining purchase. They eventually sold the estate in 2006 for $25 million, a major profit compared to their initial investment. The couple also owned a nearby 6.5-acre property, which they sold in 2013 for $20 million. Today, Marlo maintains an elegant residence in Manhattan. These real estate ventures not only provided beautiful homes but also significantly contributed to their overall net worth.

Marlo Thomas’ Legacy and Influence

Marlo Thomas’ story is not just about wealth. Her influence reaches far beyond Hollywood. She helped redefine how women were portrayed in television, encouraging future generations of actresses to play roles that highlighted independence and ambition. Through Free to Be… You and Me, she sparked important conversations about equality and acceptance. Her lifelong work with St. Jude has saved countless lives and continues to inspire others to support medical research. Marlo Thomas has built a legacy of creativity, compassion, and resilience, ensuring that her influence will be felt for decades to come.

Conclusion: A Lasting Fortune and Legacy

Marlo Thomas’ $150 million net worth is the product of much more than acting paychecks. It reflects a lifetime of dedication to her craft, bold choices in groundbreaking projects, and an unwavering commitment to philanthropy. Her marriage to Phil Donahue further enriched her personal and professional life, creating a partnership admired by many. Today, Marlo Thomas stands as both a Hollywood legend and a humanitarian icon, a woman who built a fortune while also making a difference. Her legacy proves that true wealth lies not just in money but in the lives touched along the way.

FAQs About Marlo Thomas Net Worth

What is Marlo Thomas’ net worth in 2025?
Marlo Thomas’ net worth in 2025 is estimated at $150 million, a fortune built from acting, producing, writing, philanthropy, and real estate investments.

How did Marlo Thomas make her money?
She earned her wealth through acting roles in television and film, Broadway performances, book publishing, children’s albums, and smart real estate investments.

Was Marlo Thomas married to Phil Donahue?
Yes, Marlo Thomas married Phil Donahue in 1980, and they remained together until his passing in 2024. She became stepmother to his five children.

What is Marlo Thomas best known for?
She is best known for starring in the TV series That Girl and for creating the influential children’s project Free to Be… You and Me.

Did Marlo Thomas inherit wealth from her father, Danny Thomas?
While she came from a successful family, most of Marlo Thomas’ net worth was built through her own work. She also carries on her father’s philanthropic legacy with St. Jude.

Does Marlo Thomas still act?
Yes, Marlo Thomas continues to take on acting projects, including Broadway and guest roles on television, showing her enduring passion for the craft.

What charities does Marlo Thomas support?
She supports several causes but is most closely associated with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where she serves as National Outreach Director.