Ellen Corby was a renowned actress best known for her role as Grandma Esther Walton in the TV series The Waltons. Throughout her long career, she left a lasting legacy in Hollywood. At the time of her death, Ellen Corby net worth was estimated to be around $5 million, a testament to her decades of work in film and television. In this article, we’ll explore her complete biography, including her date of birth, age, height, weight, education, family, financial legacy, and Ellen Corby’s Net Worth at death.
Early Life and Date of Birth
| Name | Ellen Corby |
|---|---|
| Birth Name | Ellen Hansen |
| Date of Birth | June 3, 1911 |
| Birth Place | Racine, Wisconsin, USA |
| Age | 87 |
| Died | April 14, 1999 |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches tall |
| Weight | 55 kg |
| Profession | Actress, Film Director, Cinematographer |
| Country | United States |
Ellen Corby was born on June 3, 1911, in Racine, Wisconsin, USA. Her birth name was Ellen Hansen. Her family moved to California when she was still young, and this relocation played a pivotal role in shaping her future in the entertainment industry. The vibrant cultural environment of Los Angeles offered young Ellen the opportunity to pursue her acting dreams.
Age at Death
Ellen Corby lived a long life, passing away at the age of 87 on April 14, 1999. She had a robust career that spanned over 60 years. Despite facing health challenges in her later years, Corby continued to inspire with her dedication to her craft.
Ellen Corby’s Height and Weight
Ellen Corby stood at approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, a height that suited her roles on screen. She had a modest frame, weighing around 55 kg during the peak of her career. Her presence on screen, though, was larger than life, making her a beloved figure across generations.
Education and Early Career
Ellen Corby’s interest in acting developed during her early years. She studied at a local high school in California before deciding to pursue a career in Hollywood. After finishing her schooling, she started working as a script girl and assistant director in the 1930s. It was this behind-the-scenes work that eventually led her to an acting career.
Corby’s early career was not without struggles. She worked hard and took on many small roles, honing her skills and waiting for her big break. Her persistence paid off when she gained attention for her role in I Remember Mama (1948), for which she earned an Academy Award nomination.
Family Life and Personal Relationships
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Ellen Corby |
| Husband’s Name | Francis Corby |
| Marriage Date | 1934 |
| Divorced | 1944 |
| Children | No Children |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Famous Dramas | I Remember Mama, The Waltons |
Ellen Corby was married to cinematographer Francis Corby in 1934. Their marriage lasted for over ten years, but they eventually divorced in 1944. The couple did not have any children. Ellen remained private about her personal life, focusing heavily on her career.
Despite not having a large immediate family, Corby was known for her close friendships and her bonds with her Waltons co-stars, who became like family to her. Her portrayal of Grandma Walton made her a household name, and she often described her on-screen family as deeply meaningful to her.
The Waltons: Her Defining Role
Ellen Corby’s role as Grandma Walton in The Waltons cemented her place in television history. The show ran from 1972 to 1981 and became a cultural phenomenon. Corby’s portrayal of the strong, caring, and wise matriarch won her several awards, including three Emmy Awards.
Her performance made her an icon in American households, and she was beloved by fans of all ages. Despite suffering a stroke in 1977, Corby returned to The Waltons, showing her resilience and dedication to her craft. This role greatly contributed to Ellen Corby’s net worth, as her success on the show ensured her financial stability for the rest of her life.
Ellen Corby Net Worth at Death
At the time of Ellen Corby death, her net worth was estimated to be around $5 million. This wealth was accumulated over her many decades in the industry, particularly through her role in The Waltons. Her television work, along with appearances in numerous films, contributed to her financial success.
Ellen Corby also made smart financial decisions throughout her career. She invested wisely and lived a relatively modest lifestyle, which allowed her to maintain her wealth even after her health began to decline in her later years.
Awards and Recognition
Ellen Corby’s career was filled with numerous accolades. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in I Remember Mama. Her work on The Waltons earned her three Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.
These awards reflected her immense talent and the respect she earned from both her peers and audiences. Ellen Corby’s net worth also increased due to the financial rewards that came with such recognition in Hollywood.
Health Struggles
Ellen Corby faced significant health challenges later in life. In 1977, she suffered a stroke that affected her ability to speak. Despite this setback, she returned to The Waltons and continued to work, a testament to her dedication to acting.
Her health struggles, however, eventually forced her to retire from acting. She lived her final years in relative seclusion, focusing on her recovery and spending time with close friends.
Legacy and Influence
Ellen Corby’s influence on the television industry, especially through her role in The Waltons, cannot be overstated. She inspired generations of actors with her professionalism and resilience. Her ability to bring warmth and authenticity to her characters made her a beloved figure in American television.
Beyond her on-screen work, Corby’s life serves as an example of perseverance. She worked her way up from humble beginnings, faced personal and health challenges, and still managed to leave behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
Ellen Corby’s Financial Management
Ellen Corby was not only successful in her acting career but also managed her finances wisely. She made investments in real estate and other ventures that helped secure her financial future. Her net worth, which stood at around $5 million at the time of her death, is a reflection of her careful financial planning.
Many celebrities struggle with managing their wealth, but Ellen Corby’s approach to money was grounded in practicality. This allowed her to live comfortably throughout her later years, even after retiring from the spotlight.
Social Media Account
Ellen Corby passed away in 1999, before the rise of social media. Therefore, she did not have any social media accounts. However, her legacy lives on through fan pages and tribute accounts on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Fans also share her memorable performances on YouTube.
Conclusion: Ellen Corby’s Lasting Legacy
Ellen Corby net worth at the time of her death was approximately $5 million, a sum that reflects her long and fruitful career. From her humble beginnings in Wisconsin to her rise as one of television’s most beloved characters, Corby’s life was one of determination, talent, and grace. Her work, especially on The Waltons, continues to be cherished by fans worldwide.
In conclusion, Ellen Corby’s net worth is not just a monetary figure. It is a representation of a life well-lived, a career well-earned, and a legacy that will continue to inspire. Her financial success was the result of decades of hard work, and her influence on the entertainment industry remains strong to this day. Read More Wealthybyte.