The passing of Hollywood legend Jane Withers in 2021 left the world mourning, but as the dust settles, curiosity arises about the true extent of her wealth. With a career spanning several decades, including iconic roles on the silver screen and television, Withers cemented her place as a beloved actress and philanthropist. As fans and enthusiasts delve into her remarkable life, one question stands out: how rich was she at the time of her death? This article will dive into her career height earnings, properties owned, philanthropic ventures, and her estimated net worth at the time of her passing.
Jane Withers as a movie actress
Jane Withers was an American actress who gained fame mainly during the 1930s and early 1940s. She graced the film industry with her talent right from childhood, starring in numerous films that catapulted her into one of the most popular child film stars of her era.
Her role in the 1934 film Bright Eyes set a trajectory for her career, leading to other notable roles in movies like 1935’s The Farmer Takes A Wife, 1935’s Ginger, and 1936’s Little Miss Nobody. Withers also did voice-over work for several years, adding further charm to cinematic pieces like 2002’s Hunchback Of Notre Dame II.
Withers received numerous awards and nominations throughout her career in the entertainment industry. She was nominated for an Academy Juvenile Award in 1935 for her performance in Bright Eyes but did not win.
On the TV front, Withers won a Golden Boot Award in 1984 for her work in the Western TV series Death Valley Days (1952-1975). In 1980, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Young Artist Awards. She was also honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of her contributions to film and television. Her star is located at 6119 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California. It was dedicated on February 8, 1960.
Jane Withers as a commercial model for Comet cleanser
Sweeping through the limelight as a successful film star, Jane Withers leveraged her fame and credibility by transitioning into a commercial model. She famously became the face of Comet cleanser during the 1960s and early 1970s, captivating audiences with her charming persona.
Viewers across America recognized her character in this role as “Josephine the Plumber,” making it one of her most iconic parts outside of movie and TV acting. Her easy rapport on camera underscored advertisements’ effectiveness, ensuring that Comet securely held its place in many American households.
A series of TV commercials starring Withers contributed significantly to boosting sales for this household product line, further propelling her net worth upward.
Jane Withers net worth in 2021
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Jane Withers’ net worth at the time of her death in 2021 is estimated to be around $5 million. This estimation primarily takes into account her successful career as a movie actress during the 1930s and early 1940s, as well as her later work as a commercial model for Comet cleanser in the 1960s and early 1970s.
Jane Withers’ continued popularity and recognition in the entertainment industry, even after transitioning from child actress roles to adult roles, helped maintain her earning potential and financial success. Marrying a wealthy Texas oil man also likely impacted Withers net worth, as it could have provided her with access to shared resources and financial stability. Withers’ various investments and properties would have also contributed to her overall net worth.
Jane Withers’ real estate and assets
Jane Withers’ real estate holdings included a luxurious Bel-Air home. The actress owned a stunning property in the exclusive neighborhood of Bel-Air, which was listed for sale at the time of her death. The luxurious residence reportedly boasted spacious living areas, beautiful landscaped gardens, and breathtaking views.
Jane Withers personal life and family
Jane Withers was born on April 12, 1926, in Atlanta, Georgia.
Early life and education
Jane Withers grew up in a middle-class family. She was the only child of Walter Edward Withers and Lavinia Ruth (née Elble) Withers. Withers did not receive a formal education. She began her acting career at the age of 5 and her education was put on hold so that she could focus on her career. She did, however, take some private acting lessons and she was home-schooled by her mother.
Marriages and relationships
Jane Withers was married twice during her lifetime. In 1947, Withers tied the knot with William Moss, a Texas entrepreneur and film producer. The couple had three children and lived on ranches in Midland, Texas, and New Mexico. Fast-forward to 1953, the couple separated and Withers was granted a divorce in 1954, citing her Moss’ excessive drinking and gambling.
In 1955, she married Kenneth Errair, a former member of the singing group The Four Freshmen. The couple had two children together. In 1968, Errair died in a plane crash near Bass Lake, California.
Despite the dissolution of her marriages, Withers remained close with her children and focused on her career and philanthropic endeavors.
Jane Withers’ contributions to charity and philanthropy
Jane Withers was known for her generous contributions to various charitable causes throughout her life. She actively supported organizations such as the American Cancer Society, UNICEF, and the Motion Picture & Television Fund. Withers often used her fame and influence to raise funds and awareness for these causes through public appearances and fundraising events. She also donated a significant portion of her earnings to charity, contributing to medical research, education programs, and other important initiatives.
Withers believed in using her platform to make a positive impact on the lives of others and was deeply committed to giving back to those in need. Her philanthropic efforts earned her recognition and gratitude from both the entertainment industry and the communities she served.
Jane Withers’ personality and interests
Jane Withers was known for her vivacious personality both on and off the screen. She had a natural charm that endeared her to audiences, and her infectious energy shone through in all of her performances.
Off-camera, Withers was described as bubbly, down-to-earth, and always smiling. She had a passion for life and loved to make people laugh with her quick wit and sense of humor.
In terms of interests, Withers was an avid collector of antiques, particularly items from the Victorian era. She enjoyed going on treasure hunts at flea markets and would often spend hours searching for unique pieces to add to her collection.
Withers also had a love for animals, especially dogs, and would frequently volunteer at animal shelters in her spare time.
Jane Withers’ death
Jane Withers passed away on August 7, 2021, at the age of 95. The exact circumstances surrounding her death have not been publicly disclosed. However, it is known that she died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Sherman Oaks, California.
Withers’ death marked the end of an era for Hollywood and saddened fans who had followed her career since she first burst onto the scene as a child actress in the 1930s. Despite her passing, Withers will always be remembered for her incredible talent and contributions to the entertainment industry throughout her lifetime.