Della Reese’s financial journey is as multifaceted as her illustrious career. Best known for her role as Tess in the hit television series Touched by an Angel, Reese was more than just an actress. She was a trailblazer in music, television, and ministry.
With a career spanning decades, Della Reese net worth in 2024 reflects the sum of her contributions across various industries. From her groundbreaking music career to her transition into television and ministry, Reese’s wealth was built through a combination of savvy business decisions, high-paying roles, and her philanthropic work.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Delloreese Patricia Early |
| Popular Name | Della Reese |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | July 6, 1931 |
| Age | 86 (Died: November 19, 2017) |
| Parents | Nellie Mitchelle, Richard Thaddeus Early |
| Siblings | Several (not all lived with her) |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Education | Wayne State University (dropped out) |
| Marital Status | Married four times |
| Spouse | Franklin Lett (m. 1983–2017), Leroy Gray (m. 1959–1961), Vermont Taliaferro (m. 1951–1958) |
| Children | Four include Deloreese Daniels, Dominique Reese |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $8 million (at the time of death) |
| Source of Wealth | Music, Acting, Television Hosting, Ministry |
| Height | 5 feet 2 inches (158 cm) |
What is the Net Worth Of Della Reese in 2024?
In 2024, Della Reese‘s net worth is estimated to be around $8 million, similar to other famous celebrities who have excelled across multiple industries. As a pioneer in music, television, and gospel ministry, her income spanned from hit albums to acting roles and church leadership.
Compared to her peers, her wealth stands alongside others who made waves in the entertainment world, though it’s important to note that Della Reese’s financial legacy extends beyond her TV roles.
Here are a few celebrities with similar backgrounds or financial success:
- Roma Downey
- Eddie Murphy
- Mahalia Jackson
- Franklin Lett Jr.
- Redd Foxx
- Lena Horne
- Cicely Tyson
- Johnny Carson
- Tina Turner
- Diana Ross
For more on the richest singers, check out this link.
Della Reese Wealth, Salary and Finance Overview
Early Career and Breakthrough as a Singer
Della Reese’s career began in the gospel music scene, and it was here that she honed the skills that would later translate into a successful mainstream career. Her early years as a singer were marked by chart-topping singles such as And That Reminds Me and Don’t You Know?.
These songs not only established her as a significant voice in music but also laid the foundation for her wealth. Her relationship with other famous artists like Mahalia Jackson, who helped guide her career, also played a role in boosting her financial trajectory.
The success of these early hits helped her accumulate significant wealth and recognition, setting the stage for the next phase of her career. As she transitioned from gospel music to mainstream success, her earnings grew steadily.
Transition to Television and Hosting Her Own Show
In the late 1960s, Della Reese made a leap into television, which was crucial in expanding her wealth. She hosted her own talk show, Della, in 1969, making her one of the first African American women to host a major TV talk show.
Although the show had a short run, it marked an important milestone in her career. It also paved the way for guest-hosting spots on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, further adding to her visibility and financial success.
Television appearances and interviews helped Della Reese connect with millions, increasing her fanbase and opening doors for more lucrative roles in film and TV. She capitalized on her fame, cementing her position as both an entertainer and a significant figure in Hollywood.
Major Role in Touched by an Angel and Its Impact on Her Wealth
Perhaps her most well-known role came in 1994 when Della Reese starred as Tess in the hit television series Touched by an Angel. The show not only garnered her critical acclaim but also brought her substantial earnings.
As the series ran for nearly a decade, Reese’s income was bolstered by her ongoing role, which made her a household name. The popularity of the show resulted in lucrative contracts and product endorsements.
Her work on Touched by an Angel also helped her win several awards, including NAACP Image Awards, contributing to her reputation and financial growth. The show had a lasting impact on her wealth, making it one of the cornerstones of her career.
Film Appearances and Their Contribution to Her Financial Growth
In addition to her work in television, Della Reese appeared in several films, including Harlem Nights (1989) alongside Eddie Murphy and Richard Pryor.
While the film itself was a commercial success, her involvement in it also boosted her earnings. Reese continued to work in film throughout her career, with roles in Expecting Mary (2010) and other projects, which helped diversify her income sources.
Her ability to navigate both film and television allowed her to accumulate a significant amount of wealth over her career. These roles, though often secondary to her TV and music work, played a key role in supplementing her income and increasing her wealth.
Gospel Ministry and Church Leadership’s Financial Role
Della Reese was not only a celebrated performer but also an ordained minister. She founded Understanding Principles for Better Living, a church that played a key role in her post-entertainment life.
Her work in ministry brought in financial contributions and allowed her to continue serving the community while managing a financially successful church.
Reese’s church leadership added a new dimension to her financial portfolio, offering her a source of income that was distinct from her entertainment career. It also gave her a platform to influence others while securing her financial future.
FAQs about Della Reese
What was Della Reese’s early life like?
Della Reese grew up in Detroit, Michigan, in a working-class family. Her mother, Nellie, worked as a cook, while her father, Richard, worked as a steelworker. Della’s love for music began early, influenced by her gospel background.
How did he make her wealth?
He made her wealth through her career as a singer, actress, television host, and church leader. Her roles in TV shows like Touched by an Angel, her gospel music albums, and her church, Understanding Principles for Better Living, all contributed to her financial success.
Was he married?
Yes, Della Reese was married four times. Her final marriage was to Franklin Lett Jr., with whom she remained until her passing in 2017.
What role did Della Reese play in Touched by an Angel?
He played Tess, an angel, in the popular TV series Touched by an Angel. Her portrayal of the character made her beloved by fans and contributed to her long-term financial success.
Conclusion
Della Reese’s legacy continues to inspire. From her early days in music to becoming a household name in television and ministry, she built a financial empire that reflects her dedication and talent. For more stories on celebrity finance, don’t forget to visit singerfortune.com. Feel free to leave your comments and share this article!
