What is Rosemary Clooney's Net Worth in 2025?

Rosemary Clooney Overview

Estimated Net Worth: $20 million
Age: 74 (at the time of her death)
Born: May 23, 1928
Died: June 29, 2002
Gender: Female
Country of origin: United States
Source of wealth: Music, Acting, Investments

Early Life and Background

Rosemary Clooney was born on May 23, 1928, in Maysville, Kentucky. She was the daughter of Andrew Joseph Clooney and Marie Frances Guilfoyle. Her family had a strong musical background, which played a significant role in shaping her future career. Rosemary’s father was a heavy drinker, which led to a tumultuous family life and eventually her parents’ separation.

Despite the challenges at home, Rosemary found solace in music. She and her sister Betty began singing together at a young age, performing at local events and on the radio. Their talent was evident early on, and they quickly gained a following. Rosemary attended St. Patrick’s School in Maysville, where she continued to hone her musical skills.

Her early exposure to music and performance set the stage for her future success. The support from her family, particularly her mother and sister, was instrumental in her development as an artist. These early experiences laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable career in the entertainment industry.

In addition to her family’s influence, Rosemary was inspired by the popular music of the time. She admired artists like Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra, who would later become her contemporaries. This admiration fueled her ambition to pursue a career in music, and she was determined to make a name for herself in the industry.

Career Beginnings

Rosemary Clooney’s career began in earnest when she and her sister Betty were hired to sing on WLW, a radio station in Cincinnati, Ohio. This opportunity came in 1945 when Rosemary was just 17 years old. The Clooney Sisters, as they were known, quickly became popular on the station, earning a modest income that helped support their family.

However, the path to success was not without its challenges. The sisters faced stiff competition and had to work hard to stand out in a crowded field. They performed tirelessly, often taking on multiple gigs to make ends meet. Despite these challenges, Rosemary’s talent and determination shone through, and she began to attract attention from industry professionals.

In 1946, Rosemary and Betty were offered a recording contract with Columbia Records. This was a significant milestone in their careers, as it provided them with a platform to reach a wider audience. Their first recordings were well-received, and they began to build a loyal fan base. The income from these early recordings was modest, but it marked the beginning of Rosemary’s financial success.

As Rosemary’s career progressed, she faced the challenge of establishing herself as a solo artist. In 1949, she made the difficult decision to part ways with her sister and pursue a solo career. This move proved to be a turning point, as it allowed her to showcase her unique talent and style. Her first solo hit, “Come On-a My House,” released in 1951, was a commercial success, earning her significant recognition and financial rewards.

Major Breakthroughs

Rosemary Clooney’s major breakthrough came with the release of “Come On-a My House” in 1951. The song, written by Ross Bagdasarian and William Saroyan, became an instant hit and catapulted Rosemary to stardom. It sold over a million copies and earned her a gold record. This success significantly boosted her net worth, as she began to command higher fees for her performances and recordings.

Following the success of “Come On-a My House,” Rosemary continued to release a string of hits throughout the 1950s. Songs like “Botch-a-Me,” “Mambo Italiano,” and “This Ole House” further solidified her status as a leading artist in the music industry. Each of these hits contributed to her growing wealth, as they generated substantial royalties and performance fees.

In addition to her music career, Rosemary ventured into acting. She appeared in several films, including “White Christmas” (1954), where she starred alongside Bing Crosby. The film was a commercial success and remains a holiday classic. Her role in “White Christmas” not only increased her visibility but also added to her financial success, as she earned a significant salary for her performance.

Another key moment in Rosemary’s career was her television show, “The Rosemary Clooney Show,” which aired from 1956 to 1957. The show provided her with a steady income and further expanded her fan base. It also opened up additional opportunities for endorsements and appearances, all of which contributed to her net worth. By the end of the 1950s, Rosemary Clooney had established herself as a multi-talented artist with a diverse income stream.

Diverse Investments and Ventures

Rosemary Clooney was not only a talented artist but also a savvy businesswoman. She understood the importance of diversifying her income streams and made several strategic investments throughout her career. One of her notable investments was in real estate. She purchased several properties, including a home in Beverly Hills, which appreciated significantly over time.

In addition to real estate, Rosemary invested in the stock market. She worked with financial advisors to build a diversified portfolio that included blue-chip stocks and other securities. These investments provided her with a steady stream of passive income and helped grow her net worth over the years. Specific figures on her stock investments are not publicly available, but they were a crucial part of her financial strategy.

Rosemary also ventured into business by opening a nightclub in Beverly Hills called “Rosemary Clooney’s Place.” The club became a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and it generated significant revenue. Although the club eventually closed, it was a profitable venture during its operation and added to her overall wealth.

Another area where Rosemary diversified her income was through endorsements and sponsorships. She partnered with several brands and companies, lending her name and image to various products. These endorsements provided additional income and helped maintain her public profile. Overall, Rosemary’s diverse investments and ventures played a significant role in her financial success.

Peak Earnings

Rosemary Clooney reached her peak earnings during the 1950s and early 1960s. This period was marked by a series of successful music releases, film roles, and television appearances. Her hit songs, such as “Come On-a My House” and “Mambo Italiano,” generated substantial royalties, while her role in “White Christmas” brought in a significant salary.

During this time, Rosemary was one of the highest-paid female artists in the industry. She commanded top dollar for her performances and recordings, earning an estimated $10,000 per concert at the height of her career. Her television show, “The Rosemary Clooney Show,” also contributed to her peak earnings, providing a steady income and additional opportunities for endorsements.

In addition to her entertainment career, Rosemary’s investments in real estate and the stock market were performing well. The appreciation of her properties and the returns from her stock portfolio added to her overall wealth. By the early 1960s, her net worth was estimated to be around $5 million, a significant sum for the time.

Rosemary’s peak earnings allowed her to live a comfortable lifestyle and provide for her family. She was able to invest in her children’s education and support various charitable causes. Her financial success during this period laid the foundation for her continued wealth and stability in the years to come.

Recent Financial Activities

In the later years of her life, Rosemary Clooney continued to be active in the entertainment industry. She performed regularly at concerts and events, maintaining a loyal fan base. Her performances were well-received, and she continued to earn a substantial income from ticket sales and royalties.

Rosemary also released several albums in the 1990s and early 2000s, which were commercially successful. These albums included collaborations with other artists and showcased her enduring talent. The sales from these albums contributed to her ongoing financial stability and added to her net worth.

In addition to her music career, Rosemary made strategic investments in various ventures. She continued to invest in real estate, purchasing properties that appreciated in value over time. Her stock portfolio also remained a significant source of income, providing her with financial security in her later years.

Rosemary’s recent financial activities also included philanthropic efforts. She supported several charitable organizations and made significant donations to causes she cared about. These contributions not only had a positive impact on the community but also reflected her commitment to giving back. Overall, Rosemary’s recent financial activities demonstrated her ability to maintain and grow her wealth while making a positive impact on society.

Philanthropy and Charitable Contributions

Rosemary Clooney was known for her generosity and commitment to philanthropy. Throughout her life, she supported various charitable organizations and causes. One of her notable contributions was to the Betty Clooney Foundation for the Brain-Injured, which she co-founded in honor of her sister Betty, who suffered from a brain aneurysm.

The foundation provided support and resources for individuals with brain injuries and their families. Rosemary’s financial contributions helped fund programs and services that made a significant difference in the lives of many people. Her involvement in the foundation was a testament to her dedication to helping others.

In addition to the Betty Clooney Foundation, Rosemary supported several other charitable organizations. She made significant donations to causes related to health, education, and the arts. Her contributions helped fund medical research, scholarships, and cultural programs, among other initiatives.

Rosemary’s philanthropic efforts extended beyond financial contributions. She often used her platform to raise awareness about important issues and advocate for positive change. Her commitment to giving back was an integral part of her legacy, and it had a lasting impact on the community. Overall, Rosemary’s philanthropy reflected her compassionate nature and desire to make a difference in the world.

Net Worth Over Time

1951: $1 million (following the success of “Come On-a My House”)
1960: $5 million (peak earnings from music, film, and television)
1980: $10 million (growth from investments and continued performances)
2000: $15 million (ongoing success in music and strategic investments)
2002: $20 million (at the time of her death)

Comparison with Peers

Rosemary Clooney’s net worth and financial journey can be compared to other prominent artists of her time, such as Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby. Like Rosemary, both Sinatra and Crosby had successful careers in music and film, and they also made strategic investments that contributed to their wealth.

Frank Sinatra, for example, had an estimated net worth of $200 million at the time of his death in 1998. His wealth came from his successful music career, film roles, and various business ventures, including real estate and a stake in the Sands Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Sinatra’s financial growth was marked by significant earnings from his performances and recordings, similar to Rosemary’s journey.

Bing Crosby, another contemporary of Rosemary, had an estimated net worth of $50 million at the time of his death in 1977. Crosby’s wealth was derived from his music and film career, as well as his investments in real estate and other ventures. Like Rosemary, Crosby diversified his income streams and made strategic investments that contributed to his financial success.

While Rosemary’s net worth was lower than that of Sinatra and Crosby, her financial journey was marked by similar strategies and milestones. She achieved significant success in the entertainment industry and made smart investments that helped grow her wealth. Her philanthropic efforts also set her apart, as she dedicated a significant portion of her resources to charitable causes. Overall, Rosemary’s financial journey was impressive and comparable to other leading artists of her time.

FAQ Regarding the Net Worth of Rosemary Clooney

How did Rosemary Clooney accumulate her wealth?
Rosemary Clooney accumulated her wealth through her successful music career, film roles, television appearances, and strategic investments in real estate and the stock market.
What were some significant financial milestones in Rosemary Clooney’s career?
Significant financial milestones in Rosemary Clooney’s career included the release of her hit song “Come On-a My House” in 1951, her role in “White Christmas” in 1954, and the success of “The Rosemary Clooney Show” from 1956 to 1957.
How did Rosemary Clooney diversify her income streams?
Rosemary Clooney diversified her income streams through investments in real estate, the stock market, and business ventures such as opening a nightclub. She also earned income from endorsements and sponsorships.
What were Rosemary Clooney’s peak earnings?
Rosemary Clooney’s peak earnings occurred during the 1950s and early 1960s, with an estimated net worth of $5 million by the early 1960s. She earned substantial income from her music, film roles, television show, and investments.
What philanthropic efforts was Rosemary Clooney involved in?
Rosemary Clooney was involved in several philanthropic efforts, including co-founding the Betty Clooney Foundation for the Brain-Injured. She also supported various charitable organizations related to health, education, and the arts.

Final Thoughts

Rosemary Clooney’s financial journey is a testament to her talent, determination, and savvy business acumen. From her early beginnings in Maysville, Kentucky, to her rise as a leading artist in the entertainment industry, Rosemary’s career was marked by significant achievements and financial success. Her ability to diversify her income streams through investments in real estate, the stock market, and business ventures played a crucial role in growing her net worth.

One of the most impressive aspects of Rosemary’s wealth accumulation was her ability to maintain and grow her financial stability over several decades. Her peak earnings during the 1950s and early 1960s set the foundation for continued success, and her strategic investments ensured long-term financial security. Rosemary’s philanthropic efforts also highlighted her commitment to giving back and making a positive impact on society.

In comparison to her peers, Rosemary’s financial journey was marked by similar strategies and milestones. While her net worth was lower than that of Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby, her achievements in the entertainment industry and her smart investments were equally impressive. Rosemary’s legacy as a talented artist and compassionate philanthropist continues to inspire and resonate with audiences today.

Overall, Rosemary Clooney’s financial journey is a remarkable story of talent, hard work, and strategic planning. Her lasting impact on the music and entertainment industry, as well as her contributions to charitable causes, ensure that her legacy will be remembered for generations to come.

The net worth numbers and associated details provided here are compiled from a range of public sources. Keep in mind that these figures are not set in stone or perfectly accurate, as financial situations and valuations are constantly shifting.