Marlo Thomas Net Worth: A Look at Her Career, Philanthropy, and Legacy

Marlo Thomas is an American actress, producer, and social activist who has a net worth of $150 million. That is a combined net worth with her late husband, talk show personality Phil Donahue. They were married from 1980 until his death in 2024. Marlo Thomas first gained widespread recognition for her starring role in the hit TV series “That Girl” (1966-1971), where she played Ann Marie, an aspiring actress in New York City. This groundbreaking show was one of the first to feature an independent, career-minded woman as the central character.

Who is Marlo Thomas?

Born on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, Marlo Thomas grew up in a family deeply entrenched in the entertainment industry. With Italian and Lebanese ancestry, she was raised in Beverly Hills, California. Her father was a comedian, and her brother later became a film producer.

Early Life and Family Background

Marlo Thomas was born on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, into a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry. Her father, Danny Thomas, was a legendary comedian and actor who later founded St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Her mother, Rose Marie Cassaniti, was a homemaker of Italian descent, while her father was of Lebanese heritage. Growing up in Beverly Hills, California, Thomas was exposed to the world of show business early on. She pursued her education at the University of Southern California, earning a degree in teaching. Despite her academic focus, the allure of acting proved irresistible, and she soon embarked on a career in entertainment.

Marlo Thomas Career

Marlo Thomas began her acting career with roles in television series like “Ben Casey,” “My Favorite Martian,” and “Bonanza.” Her breakthrough was in the play “Barefoot in the Park” in 1965, leading to further Broadway roles. Thomas gained significant fame with the TV show “That Girl” (1966-1971), portraying a young actress in New York. Her later career included a children’s book, television specials, and a music album, alongside continued appearances in TV shows and movies.

Breakthrough in Entertainment

Marlo Thomas began her acting journey with guest roles in popular TV series such as Ben Casey, My Favorite Martian, and Bonanza. However, her major breakthrough came in 1965 when she starred in Neil Simon’s play Barefoot in the Park, performed in London. The following year, she was cast in the iconic TV series That Girl (1966–1971). In the show, she portrayed Ann Marie, a young, independent actress navigating life in New York City. That Girl was revolutionary for its time, breaking traditional norms by showcasing a career-driven woman as the central character. The series earned widespread acclaim and solidified Thomas’s position as a trailblazer in television.

Marlo Thomas Personal Life

Marlo Thomas had a long relationship with Herb Gardner, a playwright, screenwriter, and cartoonist. She became a stepmother to Harb Gardner’s five children from a previous marriage. In 1977, Marlo appeared as a guest on the daytime talk show “Donahue.” Marlo and Phil reportedly fell in love at first sight. They married in May 1980. She became stepmother to Phil’s five children from a previous marriage. They remained married until his death in 2024 at the age of 88.

Philanthropy and Social Activism

A significant part of Marlo Thomas’s legacy is her dedication to philanthropy. Inspired by her father’s humanitarian efforts, she has tirelessly championed various causes:

• St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: As the National Outreach Director, Thomas has played a crucial role in fundraising and raising awareness for St. Jude, which her father founded. She has donated royalties from her projects to the hospital, helping to advance research and treatment for children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
• Ms. Foundation for Women: In 1973, Thomas co-founded the first women’s fund in the United States, advocating for gender equality and women’s empowerment.
• Charitable Albums: Projects like Marlo Thomas and Friends: Thanks and Giving All Year Long have supported numerous charitable endeavors.

For her philanthropic efforts, she has received several honors, including the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her illustrious career, Marlo Thomas has earned numerous accolades, including:

• Five Emmy Awards: Recognizing her contributions to television.
• Golden Globe: For her role in That Girl.
• Grammy Award: For the children’s album Free to Be… You and Me.
• Peabody Award: Honoring her philanthropic efforts and cultural impact.
• Women in Film Lucy Award: For changing how women are portrayed in media.

Real Estate

In 1986, Phil and Marlo bought a 17-room home in Westport, Connecticut for an undisclosed price. In 1988, they paid just under $7 million for a 7-acre connected property. They sold the combined estate to a financier in 2006 for $25 million. That same year, they bought a pair of side-by-side parcels right next to their former estate for an unknown amount. They listed the roughly 6.5-acre property for sale in 2012 for $27.5 million, ultimately accepting $20 million in 2013. They also own an apartment in Manhattan.

FAQs

What is Marlo Thomas net worth?
Marlo Thomas has a net worth of $150 million, including her late husband Phil Donahue’s assets.

What is Marlo Thomas best known for?
She is best known for starring in the hit TV series “That Girl” (1966–1971) as Ann Marie.

Who was Marlo Thomas married to?
She was married to Phil Donahue from 1980 until his passing in 2024.

What is Marlo Thomas’s connection to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital?
She is the National Outreach Director and continues her father’s legacy in fundraising and advocacy.

Has Marlo Thomas won any major awards?
Yes, she has won five Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, a Grammy, and a Presidential Medal of Freedom.

In Short

Marlo Thomas has built an incredible legacy as an actress, producer, and philanthropist. From her groundbreaking role in That Girl to her dedication to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, she continues to inspire. With a $150 million net worth, numerous awards, and a lasting impact on television and charity, Thomas remains a true icon.

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