Doug McClure was a renowned American actor best known for his role as Trampas in the hit television series The Virginian. His career spanned over three decades, during which he appeared in numerous television shows, films, and stage performances. Despite his passing in 1995, McClure remains a well-respected figure in Hollywood. One of the most common questions about him is related to his net worth. How much wealth did Doug McClure accumulate during his career? In this article, we will explore Doug McClure net worth, his sources of income, and his financial legacy.
Biography and Personal Details
To understand Doug McClure’s life and legacy better, here is a table with key aspects of his biography:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Douglas Osborne “Doug” McClure |
| Date of Birth | May 11, 1935 |
| Place of Birth | Glendale, California, United States |
| Date of Death | February 5, 1995 |
| Place of Death | Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, California, United States |
| Age at Death | 59 years |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in) |
| Weight | 181 lb (82 kg) |
| Spouses | Diane Furnberg (m. 1979–1995), Diane Soldani, Helen Crane, BarBara Luna, Faye Brash |
| Children | Tané McClure, Valerie McClure |
| Siblings | Donald Reed McClure |
| Education | Educated at UCLA |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Doug McClure was born on May 11, 1935, in Glendale, California. From an early age, he showed an interest in acting, leading him to pursue a career in Hollywood. He studied at UCLA, where he further honed his acting skills before landing his first roles in television and film in the late 1950s.
Before achieving fame, McClure appeared in minor roles in television shows such as Death Valley Days and Maverick. His early experiences helped him build a foundation for a successful career in the entertainment industry, which later contributed to his wealth accumulation.
Breakthrough Role in The Virginian
One of the major turning points in Doug McClure’s career was when he was cast as Trampas in The Virginian, a Western television series that aired from 1962 to 1971. The show was a massive success and became one of the longest-running Western series in television history.
Playing Trampas for nearly a decade not only made McClure a household name but also significantly boosted his earnings. During his tenure on the show, he reportedly earned a substantial salary per episode, adding significantly to his overall net worth. His popularity as a television star opened doors for additional roles in movies and endorsements.
Film and Television Career After The Virginian
After The Virginian, McClure continued to work in television and films. He starred in several notable projects, including:
- The Land That Time Forgot (1974)
- The People That Time Forgot (1977)
- Warlords of Atlantis (1978)
- Humanoids from the Deep (1980)
Although these films were not major box office hits, they contributed to his consistent income. Additionally, McClure made guest appearances in popular TV shows such as Magnum, P.I., Murder, She Wrote, and The Twilight Zone. His steady acting career ensured that he maintained financial stability throughout his life.
Other Sources of Income
Besides acting, Doug McClure had other sources of income that contributed to his net worth. These included:
- Syndication Royalties: Since The Virginian was widely syndicated and rerun on television, McClure likely received royalties from the show.
- Endorsements and Public Appearances: Being a well-known actor, McClure was often invited to Western conventions, fan meet-ups, and promotional events, which helped him generate additional income.
- Real Estate Investments: While there is limited public information on his real estate holdings, many Hollywood actors of his era invested in properties that appreciated over time.
Doug McClure’s Estimated Net Worth
Estimating Doug McClure’s exact net worth is challenging due to the lack of detailed financial records. However, based on his long and successful career, it is believed that his net worth at the time of his death in 1995 was approximately $16 million. This estimation considers his earnings from television, films, endorsements, and residual payments.
Financial Challenges and Lifestyle
Despite his substantial earnings, Doug McClure was known for living a comfortable but not overly extravagant lifestyle. Like many actors, he faced financial challenges at times, particularly when acting roles became scarce in later years. However, his status as a veteran actor allowed him to continue securing guest roles and television appearances, which helped him maintain financial stability.
McClure also battled health issues later in life, which might have impacted his finances. He was diagnosed with lung cancer in the early 1990s, and his medical expenses could have affected his net worth to some extent.
Legacy and Impact on Hollywood
Doug McClure’s contribution to the entertainment industry remains significant. His portrayal of Trampas in The Virginian influenced many actors who followed in the Western genre. Even after his passing, his work continues to be celebrated by fans of classic television.
In recognition of his achievements, McClure received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1994, solidifying his legacy in the industry. His influence extends beyond his acting, as he also inspired characters in modern media, such as Troy McClure from The Simpsons, who was partly based on him.
Conclusion
Doug McClure net worth was estimated to be around $16 million at the time of his passing in 1995. His wealth was accumulated through his long and successful career in television and film, as well as other ventures. While he faced some financial challenges, he managed to maintain a comfortable lifestyle and left a lasting impact on Hollywood.
Even today, Doug McClure’s work is remembered and appreciated by fans of Westerns and classic television. His legacy as an actor and entertainer ensures that his name will be recognized for generations to come. Read More. boldfact.org