Clark Gable Net Worth – How Much Is Clark Gable Worth?

Clark Gable, one of the most famous movie stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age, had a remarkable net worth during his career. Known for his exceptional talent and onscreen charisma, Gable’s contributions to the film industry continue to be celebrated to this day. But just how much was Clark Gable worth, and what were the key factors that contributed to his financial success?

At the time of his death in 1960, Clark Gable had a net worth of $10 million, which, adjusted for inflation, would be equivalent to an impressive $100 million in today’s dollars. Gable’s wealth was a testament to his extraordinary career that spanned 37 years, during which he appeared in numerous iconic films and worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood.

Key Takeaways:

Clark Gable had a net worth of $10 million at the time of his death in 1960.
Gable’s net worth would be equivalent to $100 million in today’s dollars.
He earned between $50,000 and $75,000 per movie during the peak of his career.
Gable’s financial success was a result of his exceptional talent and starring roles in classic films.
His net worth reflects the enduring legacy of one of Hollywood’s most beloved and profitable stars.

Clark Gable’s Salary and Earnings

During the height of his career, Clark Gable was one of Hollywood’s highest-paid actors. He earned between $50,000 and $75,000 per movie, which would be equivalent to $1 – $1.5 million per movie in today’s dollars. In an average year, Gable made around $200,000 in total income. His impressive earnings allowed him to accumulate significant wealth throughout his career.

Gable’s status as a top-earning actor was further confirmed by his consistent appearance on Quigley Publishing’s Annual Top Ten Money Making Stars list. In fact, he made the list 16 times, showcasing not only his talent but also his ability to draw audiences and generate substantial box office returns. With his high salary and successful filmography, Gable ultimately amassed a fortune estimated to be worth $100 million in today’s dollars.

Notable Earnings:

“Clark Gable’s salary and earnings were a testament to his immense popularity and talent. His financial success allowed him to live a lavish lifestyle and invest in various ventures. Gable’s ability to command such high salaries made him one of the most sought-after actors of his time.”

Quigley Publishing’s Annual Top Ten Money Making Stars List:

Year
Rank

1936
#10

1937
#2

1938
#6

1939
#1

1940
#2

1941
#4

1942
#5

1943
#1

1944
#2

Clark Gable’s salary and earnings not only reflect his immense talent and star power but also underline the lasting impact he had on the film industry. His financial success served as a testament to his exceptional career and established him as one of the most iconic and celebrated actors in Hollywood history.

Clark Gable’s Hollywood Breakthroughs

Clark Gable’s journey to stardom in Hollywood began with several breakthrough roles that showcased his immense talent and charisma. These iconic films cemented his status as a leading man and solidified his place in cinematic history.

The Secret Six

One of Gable’s first notable roles came in the 1931 crime drama “The Secret Six,” directed by George W. Hill. In this film, Gable portrayed Louie Scorpio, displaying his ability to embody complex characters and captivate audiences. The success of “The Secret Six” marked the start of Gable’s rise to fame.

Hell Divers

Gable’s breakout moment continued with his role in the 1931 action film “Hell Divers,” directed by George Hill. Co-starring with Wallace Beery, Gable played Steve Nelson, a daring Navy pilot. This film showcased Gable’s intense onscreen presence and established him as a talented actor capable of delivering captivating performances.

Dance, Fools, Dance

In the same year, Gable solidified his rising star status with the crime drama “Dance, Fools, Dance,” directed by Harry Beaumont. He starred alongside Joan Crawford, displaying undeniable chemistry and transforming the film into a must-watch. Gable’s performance as Jake Luva earned critical acclaim and further propelled his career forward.

However, Gable’s breakthrough came with his leading man roles in “Red Dust” (1932) and “Gone with the Wind” (1939). In “Red Dust,” he starred opposite Jean Harlow, creating an electrifying onscreen presence that captivated audiences. This film showcased Gable’s ability to carry a movie and solidified his reputation as a dynamic leading man.

“Gone with the Wind,” one of the most iconic films in Hollywood history, showcased Gable’s exceptional talent as he portrayed Rhett Butler. Gable’s portrayal of the charming and brooding Butler earned him his third Academy Award nomination and further solidified his place as one of Hollywood’s greatest actors.”

Gable’s leading man status allowed him to work alongside some of the era’s top actresses, including Jean Harlow, Joan Crawford, and Vivien Leigh. His undeniable charm and powerful screen presence captivated audiences and made him one of Hollywood’s most sought-after leading men.

Films
Year

The Secret Six
1931

Hell Divers
1931

Dance, Fools, Dance
1931

Red Dust
1932

Gone with the Wind
1939

Clark Gable’s Personal Life and Death

Clark Gable, known for his legendary acting career, had a personal life that was equally captivating. Throughout his life, Gable was married five times and fathered two children. His marriages were a reflection of his eventful personal journey. Let’s take a closer look at his relationships and his tragic death.

Marriages

Gable’s first wife was Josephine Dillon, a theater director and acting coach. They were married from 1924 to 1930.
His second marriage was to Rhea Langham, a socialite. They were together from 1931 to 1939.
Carole Lombard, an iconic actress, became Gable’s third wife in 1939. Tragically, their marriage was cut short when Lombard died in a plane crash in 1942.
Lady Sylvia Ashley, a British actress, became Gable’s fourth wife in 1949. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 1952.
Gable’s fifth and final wife was Kay Spreckels, a former fashion model. They were married from 1955 until Gable’s death in 1960.

Type
Location
Features

Mansion
Encino, Los Angeles
7,100 square feet

Barn
Encino, Los Angeles
Cows, chickens, and pigs

Clark Gable’s Early Life and Career Beginnings

Clark Gable, born on February 1, 1901, in Cadiz, Ohio, had a challenging early life. At the age of 16, he quit high school and started working at a factory to make ends meet. However, his passion for acting soon led him down a different path. Gable’s career in the entertainment industry began on the stage, where he honed his craft and developed his acting skills.

With determination and ambition, Gable made his way to Hollywood. He was accompanied by his acting coach and wife, Josephine Dillon, who played a crucial role in shaping his early career. Under Dillon’s guidance, Gable immersed himself in the world of silent films and gained valuable experience in stock companies and stage roles.

“Acting is fantastic. The thrill that comes from the applause and the satisfied feeling that comes from knowing you gave everything and did your best—it is something hard to define. When you’re sitting at home someday, maybe 80 years old and your grandchildren are sitting around your knees, and they’ll talk about the films you made—maybe that’s what I’ll be proudest of.” – Clark Gable

Gable’s journey from humble beginnings to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood showcases his perseverance in pursuit of his dreams. His early experiences on stage and in silent films laid the foundation for his later success as one of Hollywood’s most iconic leading men.

Clark Gable’s Silent Films and Stage Roles

In the 1920s, Clark Gable began his journey in the entertainment industry by appearing as an extra in silent films such as “The Merry Widow” and “The Painted Desert.” These early experiences on the silver screen provided Gable with a taste of the magic of cinema and ignited his passion for acting.

But Gable’s talents extended beyond the world of silent films. He also ventured into the realm of stage performances, honing his craft on the prestigious Broadway stages of New York City. Gable took on various roles in both dramatic and comedic productions, displaying his versatility as an actor.

Although Gable’s silent films and stage roles laid the foundation for his future success, it wasn’t until the early 1930s that he truly made his breakthrough in Hollywood. In 1930, Gable signed a contract with MGM, catapulting him into the spotlight and leading to his memorable performances in films like “Night Nurse” and “Dance, Fools, Dance.” The combination of his on-screen charisma and undeniable talent soon established him as a rising star in the industry.

Throughout his career, Gable’s experiences in silent films and stage roles enriched his acting abilities, allowing him to captivate audiences with his presence and leave a lasting impact on the silver screen. From his humble beginnings as an extra to his rise to stardom, Clark Gable’s journey in film and theater showcases his dedication and passion for the art of storytelling.

Clark Gable’s Hollywood Career and Box Office Success

After signing with MGM, Clark Gable cemented his place as one of Hollywood’s most consistent box-office performers. Throughout his career, he starred in a string of successful films that captivated audiences and solidified his leading man status.

Gable’s onscreen charisma and undeniable chemistry with top actresses contributed to his box office success. Audiences were drawn to his magnetic presence and powerful performances, making him a beloved and iconic figure of the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Box Office Success

Clark Gable’s films consistently attracted audiences and achieved significant box office success. Some of his most notable films include:

“It Happened One Night”
“Mutiny on the Bounty”
“Gone with the Wind”

These movies not only showcased Gable’s immense talent but also became cultural phenomena, leaving a lasting impact on the film industry.

Film
Box Office Performance

“It Happened One Night”
$4,360,000

“Mutiny on the Bounty”
$4,460,000

“Gone with the Wind”
$32,000,000

Note: All box office figures are based on the estimated earnings at the time of release.

These successful films not only contributed to Gable’s fame and fortune but also solidified his status as one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood.

Clark Gable’s Major Awards and Recognition

Clark Gable, a legendary actor of Hollywood’s Golden Age, received numerous awards and recognition for his exceptional performances. His talent and charisma made him a beloved figure on-screen and a respected artist in the industry.

One of Gable’s most significant achievements was winning the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in the iconic film “It Happened One Night.” His portrayal of Peter Warne, a newspaper reporter, showcased his versatility and solidified his status as a leading man.

“I was poor and I liked to eat. So, I learned to pre-emcee stock for the cinema houses and was working on a stage … Hollywood interested me even then, but becoming an actor seemed about as likely as walking on the water.” – Clark Gable

Gable’s impressive performances in “Mutiny on the Bounty” and “Gone with the Wind” earned him two additional Academy Award nominations. Although he didn’t win for these roles, his contributions to these landmark films were widely recognized.

The American Film Institute named Clark Gable the 7th greatest male actor of all time, highlighting his enduring influence and timeless performances. His embodiment of the rugged leading man and his ability to captivate audiences established him as a true Hollywood icon.

In recognition of his remarkable career, Clark Gable received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing his status as a legendary figure in the entertainment industry.

Clark Gable’s Awards and Recognitions:

Academy Award for Best Actor – “It Happened One Night”
Academy Award nominations – “Mutiny on the Bounty,” “Gone with the Wind”
American Film Institute’s 7th Greatest Male Actor of All Time
Hollywood Walk of Fame star

Clark Gable’s exceptional talent, memorable performances, and enduring legacy continue to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.

Clark Gable’s Height and Physical Appearance

Clark Gable, the iconic Hollywood star of the Golden Age, was known for his tall stature and commanding presence. Standing at 6 feet (1.85 m) tall, Gable had a towering presence that captivated audiences on the silver screen.

His physical appearance, combined with his acting talent, contributed to his success as a leading man in numerous classic films. Gable’s rugged and masculine features, including his chiseled jawline and piercing eyes, made him a heartthrob among audiences of his time.

“He’s tall, dark, and handsome,” is how Gable was often described, capturing the essence of his onscreen appeal. His charismatic presence and undeniable charm added an extra layer of magnetism to his performances, making him a beloved figure in Hollywood.

Gable’s height and striking physical appearance were assets that further elevated his status as one of the most celebrated actors of his era. He embodied the epitome of leading man charisma, leaving an indelible mark on the history of cinema.

Physical Attributes
Description

Height
6 feet (1.85 m)

Features
Rugged jawline, piercing eyes

Appeal
Tall, dark, and handsome

Clark Gable’s physical presence and captivating looks not only mesmerized audiences during his career but continue to resonate with fans today. He remains a timeless symbol of Hollywood glamour, forever etched in the annals of film history.

Clark Gable’s Legacy and Impact on Hollywood

Clark Gable, one of the most iconic actors of Hollywood’s Golden Age, left a lasting legacy in the film industry. Known for his talent, charm, and distinctive onscreen presence, Gable was one of the highest-paid and most successful movie stars of his time. His contributions to cinema continue to influence actors and entertain audiences worldwide.

Gable’s iconic roles and memorable performances have solidified his place in cinematic history. He captivated audiences with his portrayal of Rhett Butler in “Gone with the Wind” and his captivating onscreen chemistry with leading ladies such as Vivien Leigh and Claudette Colbert. Gable’s talent and versatility allowed him to excel in a range of genres, from romantic dramas to action-packed adventures.

Moreover, Gable’s impact extends beyond his acting prowess. He paved the way for future generations of actors and set the standard for the leading man archetype. His charismatic persona and rugged good looks made him an idol for both men and women. Gable’s influence on Hollywood can still be seen today, as his legacy lives on in the hearts of film enthusiasts and in the performances of countless actors who strive to emulate his greatness.

Clark Gable’s impact on the film industry is undeniable. His immense popularity and talent earned him the admiration and respect of his peers and audiences alike. Today, his name continues to be synonymous with Hollywood glamour and excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the history of cinema that will be remembered for generations to come.

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