Now, here's a story about one of the most iconic figures in TV history: Lucille Ball. As a powerhouse performer during the Golden Age of Television, Lucille not only made us laugh but also left an indelible mark on the industry. Her work on legendary shows like I Love Lucy wasn't just about comedy—it was about shaping the future of television itself. When Lucille passed away on April 26, 1989, she left behind more than just memories; she left behind a fortune that reflected her incredible career. So, let's dive into the details of her life and legacy, and how she built such an impressive net worth.
Lucille Ball’s Net Worth: How Much Was She Worth?
At the time of her death in 1989, Lucille Ball's estimated net worth was a staggering $60 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Born in 1911 to Henry Durrell "Had" Ball and Désirée Evelyn "DeDe" Ball, Lucille's journey to stardom began in 1935 with her first credited acting role in the film I Dream Too Much. But that was just the beginning. Over the years, Lucille transformed from a struggling actress into a television icon whose name became synonymous with laughter and brilliance. Her career wasn't just about making people laugh—it was about creating a legacy that would inspire generations to come.
Let’s talk about where that money came from. A big chunk of Lucille's fortune came from her work on I Love Lucy, the iconic CBS sitcom that aired from 1951 to 1957. Partnering with her then-husband, Desi Arnaz, along with Vivian Vance and William Frawley, Lucille created a show that became a cultural phenomenon. The humor, the timing, and the sheer talent on display made I Love Lucy one of the most-watched programs of its era. It wasn’t just a show—it was a revolution in comedy.
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Lucille’s bond with Vivian Vance was more than just a professional relationship. They were lifelong friends, and Vivian was one of Lucille’s closest confidants. When Vivian passed away from breast cancer in 1979 at the age of 70, it was a devastating loss for Lucille. A close friend of Vivian’s, Paige Peterson, shared with Closer in January 2022 that their final meeting was an emotional goodbye filled with stories, hugs, and love.
Family Matters: How Many Children Did Lucille Ball Have?
Lucille and Desi Arnaz had two children together: Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz Jr. Their marriage, however, came to an end in 1960. A year later, Lucille married her second husband, Gary Morton. Despite the divorce, her children remained a central part of her life and career.
Life After I Love Lucy: How Did Lucille Ball Continue to Succeed?
After I Love Lucy ended, Lucille didn’t slow down. She starred in The Lucy Show, another hit series produced by Desilu Productions, the studio she and Desi once co-owned. This production company wasn’t just responsible for Lucille’s shows—it also brought us other legendary series like Mission: Impossible and Star Trek. Lucille's influence extended far beyond her acting career; she was a trailblazer in the business side of entertainment as well.
Her career didn’t stop there. From 1968 to 1974, Lucille starred in Here’s Lucy, where she shared the screen with her real-life children. She also appeared in films like Yours, Mine and Ours, Mame, and Stone Pillow. Her final acting role came in 1986 with the short-lived series Life With Lucy. Even as her career evolved, Lucille remained a beloved figure in television, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
