Lena Horne was not just a talented singer but also a renowned actress, dancer, and civil rights activist. Over her impressive 70-year career, she crafted a legacy that made her a household name and built significant wealth.
But how did she do it? From her groundbreaking roles in film and Broadway to her television performances and award-winning albums, Horne’s journey in the entertainment industry has left a lasting financial impact.
At SingerFortune, we’ll dive deep into Lena Horne net worth.
Quick Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Lena Mary Calhoun Horne |
| Popular Name | Lena Horne |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | June 30, 1917 |
| Age | 92 years (Died: May 9, 2010) |
| Parents | Edwin Fletcher Teddy Horne Jr., Edna Louise Scottron |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Birthplace | Bedford–Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, NY |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American (Biracial heritage) |
| Education | St. Peter Claver School, Girls’ High School |
| Marital Status | Widowed (Lennie Hayton) |
| Spouse | Lennie Hayton (m. 1947–1971), Louis Jordan Jones (m. 1937–1944) |
| Children | Gail Lumet Buckley (daughter), Edwin Jones (son, deceased) |
| Dating | Affairs with Joe Louis, Orson Welles, Vincente Minnelli |
| Net Worth | $10 million (2010) |
| Source of Wealth | Singing, Acting, Activism |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (1.65m) |
What is the Net Worth of Lena Horne in 2024?
Lena Horne‘s net worth was estimated at $10 million in 2010, approximately $14 million in today’s value. This places her among notable entertainers and civil rights activists who amassed wealth through talent and influence.
She stands alongside many peers who also built notable legacies and fortunes.
Here are a few related names:
- Dinah Shore
- Harry Belafonte
- Tony Bennett
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)
- RCA Victor
- Louis Jordan Jones
- Joe Louis
- Vincente Minnelli
- Sidney Lumet
For an in-depth look at the financial achievements of other well-known musicians, check out this comprehensive list of the most financially successful singers.
Salary and Finance Overview
How She Built Her Wealth Over a 70-Year Career
Lena Horne’s wealth didn’t accumulate overnight. It was a result of years spent in multiple entertainment fields. Starting her career at the tender age of 16, she became a chorus member at the iconic Cotton Club.
Her early performances caught attention, leading to opportunities on both the silver screen and Broadway. By the time she signed with MGM, she had already begun laying the foundation for her future earnings.
Her ability to navigate the entertainment industry, despite the racial barriers of her time, allowed her to make her mark in both film and music. Horne’s earnings from her extensive work on screen, stage, and recording studios played a pivotal role in shaping her financial legacy.
Key Milestones in Her Music and Film Career That Contributed to Her Wealth
One of the main contributors to her net worth was her prolific music and film career. She starred in numerous films, including Stormy Weather and Cabin in the Sky, which were both critical and commercial successes.
As one of the first African-American actresses to sign with a major studio, MGM, Horne’s roles in musicals like Panama Hattie and Ziegfeld Follies cemented her status as a Hollywood star.
Her partnership with RCA Victor resulted in several chart-topping albums. The release of Lena Horne at the Waldorf Astoria became a defining moment, as it was the best-selling record by a female artist for RCA Victor at that time.
Achievements and Awards That Elevated Her Status and Earnings
Recognition and accolades played a significant part in her wealth. She received multiple Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award. Her show Lena Horne: The Lady and Her Music won a Special Tony Award and two Grammy Awards for the cast recording.
These achievements brought not only fame but also increased her market value, leading to more high-paying opportunities.
Additionally, being nominated for a Tony Award for her role in Jamaica marked her as a trailblazer, adding to her prestige and financial success. Her ability to break through racial barriers in Hollywood and the music industry contributed immensely to her overall wealth.
Her Role as a Civil Rights Activist and Its Impact on Her Wealth
Although primarily known for her entertainment career, Horne’s activism was also influential. She worked closely with organizations like the NAACP and participated in the historic March on Washington.
Her advocacy for desegregation and equal rights helped her stand out not only as an entertainer but also as a respected voice in civil rights.
While her activism might not have directly contributed to her wealth, it certainly enhanced her public image. This status further solidified her influence, leading to better opportunities in her career and ultimately contributing to her financial growth.
Television and Stage Performances as a Steady Source of Income
Beyond her music and film roles, Lena Horne became a staple on television. She appeared on popular variety shows like The Ed Sullivan Show, The Dean Martin Show, and hosted her own special, Monsanto Night Presents Lena Horne.
These appearances brought in steady revenue and kept her relevant in the entertainment world.
Horne also became a premier nightclub performer in the 1950s and 60s, headlining clubs and hotels across North America and Europe. This stage career not only expanded her earnings but also established her as one of the leading performers of her era.
Her Legacy in the Entertainment Industry and Lasting Financial Impact
Her impact on the entertainment industry is everlasting. She broke barriers as a Black woman in Hollywood and Broadway, paving the way for future generations.
Her influence, combined with her lasting music and film contributions, ensures that her financial legacy remains impactful even years after her passing.
The release of posthumous music collections, media tributes, and renewed interest in her life and work continue to add value to her legacy. Horne’s financial achievements were not just based on wealth but also on the powerful message she left behind in civil rights and entertainment.
FAQs about Lena Horne
What was Lena Horne’s first major performance?
Her first major performance was as a chorus member at the Cotton Club in New York City at age 16.
Who were her parents?
Her parents were Edwin Fletcher Teddy Horne Jr., a former hotel owner and gambler, and Edna Louise Scottron, an actress with a theater troupe.
What awards did Lena Horne win during her career?
She won multiple awards, including two Grammy Awards for the cast recording of Lena Horne: The Lady and Her Music and a Special Tony Award.
How did she contribute to civil rights?
Horne was a vocal civil rights activist, refusing to perform for segregated audiences and participating in the March on Washington in 1963.
What is she known for in the music industry?
She is known for her rich discography, with albums like Lena Horne at the Waldorf Astoria and hit songs like Stormy Weather.
Did Lena Horne have any family in the entertainment industry?
Yes, her granddaughter, Jenny Lumet, is an award-winning screenwriter known for Rachel Getting Married.
What roles did she play in films?
She appeared in films like Stormy Weather, Cabin in the Sky, and had a significant role in The Wiz as Glinda.
Who were her spouses?
Her first husband was Louis Jordan Jones, and her second was Lennie Hayton, a musical conductor and arranger.
Where did Lena Horne live?
She lived in several places, including Southern California and New York City, where she eventually purchased multiple apartment units.
Conclusion
Lena Horne’s life was a remarkable journey of talent, determination, and financial success. I invite you to explore more about her incredible story and share your thoughts on our website, SingerFortune.
