Marlo Thomas, an iconic figure in American entertainment and philanthropy, boasts an impressive net worth of $150 million. At the age of 87, she remains celebrated for her groundbreaking career in television, contributions to children’s education, and extensive charitable work. Married to the late Phil Donahue from 1980 until his passing in 2024, Thomas has left an indelible mark on both Hollywood and the world of philanthropy.
Who is Marlo Thomas?
Born on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, Marlo Thomas grew up in Beverly Hills, California. Her father, Danny Thomas, was a legendary comedian, which exposed her to the world of entertainment at an early age. Thomas graduated from the University of Southern California with a teaching degree but decided to follow her passion for acting. Her Lebanese and Italian heritage has also influenced her dynamic career and personality.
How Did Marlo Thomas Rise to Fame?
Marlo Thomas began her career with roles in television series like Ben Casey, My Favorite Martian, and Bonanza. Her major breakthrough came in 1965 when she performed in the play Barefoot in the Park. However, her defining role was in the iconic TV show That Girl (1966–1971), where she portrayed Ann Marie, an aspiring actress navigating independence in New York City. The series was revolutionary for its time, showcasing a career-focused woman living on her own, a narrative that challenged societal norms.
The success of That Girl catapulted Thomas into stardom, earning her widespread acclaim and setting the stage for her long-lasting career in entertainment.
What Are Marlo Thomas’ Contributions to Children’s Education and Entertainment?
Thomas is deeply committed to promoting inclusivity and education for children. Her 1972 project Free to Be… You and Me remains one of her most cherished accomplishments. This multimedia initiative, which included a book, TV special, and music album, emphasized gender equality, diversity, and self-expression.
Her contributions extended to producing albums like Thanks and Giving All Year Long and creating educational programs for young audiences. These projects not only entertained but also educated children, teaching them about compassion, acceptance, and individuality.
What Philanthropic Efforts Define Her Legacy?
A cornerstone of Marlo Thomas’ life is her dedication to philanthropy. Inspired by her father’s legacy, she became actively involved with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, founded by Danny Thomas. Serving as the hospital’s National Outreach Director, she raised millions of dollars through campaigns and donated proceeds from her projects to support its mission of treating and curing pediatric catastrophic diseases.
Additionally, she co-founded the Ms. Foundation for Women in 1973, the first women’s fund in the United States. This initiative focused on empowering women and advocating for gender equality. Thomas’ efforts in philanthropy earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014 and a Peabody Award.
What Are Her Career Achievements?
Throughout her illustrious career, Marlo Thomas has received several awards for her work in entertainment and activism. She won four Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and a Grammy for her contributions to television and children’s education. Her groundbreaking role in That Girl and her advocacy for positive representations of women in media led to her receiving the Women in Film Lucy Award.
Thomas has also appeared in notable productions, including the Broadway play Clever Little Lies in 2015, showcasing her versatility as an actress well into her later years.
How Did Marlo Thomas Balance Personal Life with Career Success?
Marlo Thomas’ personal life has been as eventful as her professional journey. She initially had a relationship with Herb Gardner, a playwright, and later found love with Phil Donahue. The couple married in 1980 after meeting on his talk show, Donahue. Their blended family included Donahue’s five children from a previous marriage, whom Thomas embraced as her own.
Thomas and Donahue shared a deep connection, supporting each other’s careers and philanthropic endeavors. Their marriage lasted until Donahue’s passing in 2024 at the age of 88, marking over four decades of partnership.
What Real Estate Investments Reflect Her Lifestyle?
Marlo Thomas and Phil Donahue made savvy real estate decisions during their marriage. In 1986, they purchased a 17-room home in Westport, Connecticut, which they later expanded with an adjacent property acquisition. They sold the combined estate for $25 million in 2006 and subsequently invested in another 6.5-acre property in the same area, which they sold for $20 million in 2013.
In addition to their Connecticut properties, the couple owned a luxurious Manhattan apartment, reflecting their preference for both suburban tranquility and urban sophistication.
What is Marlo Thomas’ Lasting Impact?
Marlo Thomas’ influence extends far beyond her roles in television and film. She broke barriers for women in media, advocating for independent and ambitious female characters. Her philanthropic efforts have positively impacted countless lives, especially through her work with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Her passion for education, equality, and compassion continues to inspire future generations. Whether on-screen or through her charitable work, Thomas exemplifies a life dedicated to making a difference.
At 87 years old and with a net worth of $150 million, Marlo Thomas’ legacy is one of talent, determination, and generosity. From her trailblazing role in That Girl to her tireless work in philanthropy, she remains an enduring icon in both Hollywood and humanitarian circles.
