Anne Meara Net Worth

Anne Meara: A Look at Her Life, Career, and Net Worth

Introduction: The Legacy of Anne Meara

Anne Meara, a name synonymous with comedy and acting, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Known for her sharp wit, comedic timing, and versatility, Meara was a beloved figure for decades. This article delves into the life and career of Anne Meara, exploring her journey from her early life to her comedic partnership with Jerry Stiller, her extensive work in television and film, and the net worth she accumulated throughout her successful career. We will also look at the impact she made on the entertainment world and the legacy she left behind.

Early Life and Education

Anne Meara was born on September 20, 1929, in Brooklyn, New York. She was the only child of Mary and Edward Meara. Growing up in Rockville Centre on Long Island, she faced personal tragedy at a young age when her mother died by suicide when Anne was just eleven years old. This early experience likely shaped her resilience and perspective on life. As a young adult, she pursued her passion for acting by studying at the New School and HB Studio, laying the foundation for her future success in the world of entertainment.

Stiller and Meara: The Comedy Duo

One of Anne Meara’s most significant contributions to comedy was her partnership with her husband, Jerry Stiller. They formed the comedy act Stiller and Meara after leaving the Compass Players improv group in Chicago, Illinois. Their act quickly gained popularity, performing in New York nightclubs. They were known for their relatable and humorous skits that often focused on domestic themes and the everyday quirks of relationships. Their success soared after the breakup of the popular comedy act Mike Nichols and Elaine May in 1961, making Stiller and Meara the most popular comedy couple in the country. They became regular guests on “The Ed Sullivan Show” and made numerous appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.” They also released a successful LP titled “Presenting America’s New Comedy Sensation: Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara Live at the Hungry I.” In addition, they were known for their memorable radio commercials for Blue Nun Wine. Although they were a hit, the couple decided to end their act in 1970, as it was negatively impacting their marriage.

Television Career: From Soap Operas to Sitcoms

Anne Meara’s television career spanned six decades, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her first television role was as Harriet on the daytime soap opera “The Greatest Gift” from 1954 to 1955. In 1960, she appeared in the television film “Ninotchka,” a remake of the Ernst Lubitsch film. She returned to television in the early 1970s, appearing in various shows such as “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father,” “Love, American Style,” “The Paul Lynde Show,” and “The Corner Bar.” In 1975, Meara starred in the short-lived legal drama series “Kate McShane,” earning her an Emmy Award nomination for her performance. From 1976 to 1977, she played Sally Gallagher on the sitcom “Rhoda.” One of her most significant roles was as Veronica Rooney, the bar cook on the sitcom “Archie Bunker’s Place,” a continuation of “All in the Family.” She remained on the show for its first three seasons, until 1982.

After “Archie Bunker’s Place,” Meara co-wrote the 1983 CBS television film “The Other Woman” with Lila Garrett. She then co-wrote and performed in the short-lived “The Stiller and Meara Show.” In the late 1980s, she had a recurring role on the sitcom “ALF.” She went on to make guest appearances in numerous shows, including “Murder, She Wrote,” “Monsters,” “All My Children,” “In the Heat of the Night,” “Murphy Brown,” “Homicide: Life on the Street,” and “Oz.” Continuing into the 21st century, she played the recurring role of Veronica Olchin on “The King of Queens” from 2003 to 2007. During this time, she also starred in the television film “What Makes a Family” and appeared in episodes of “Will & Grace,” “Sex and the City,” and “Charlie Lawrence.”

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Film Career: Big Screen Appearances

Anne Meara also had a notable film career, appearing in a variety of movies over several decades. She began with small roles in the 1970 comedies “The Out-of-Towners” and “Lovers and Other Strangers.” She then took on larger roles in “Irish Whiskey Rebellion” and “Nasty Habits.” Her final film role of the decade was in the 1978 science-fiction thriller “The Boys from Brazil.” In 1980, Meara played English teacher Elizabeth Sherwood in the hit teen musical drama “Fame.” Further credits included “The Longshot,” “My Little Girl,” and “That’s Adequate.” In the 1990s, she appeared in Penny Marshall’s drama “Awakenings.” She also appeared alongside her husband and son in the horror comedy “Highway to Hell,” and again with her son in the romantic dramedy “Reality Bites.” Other notable credits include “The Search for One-Eye Jimmy,” “Kiss of Death,” “The Daytrippers,” “Southie,” “Judy Berlin,” and “A Fish in the Bathtub,” where she co-starred with her husband.

In the 2000s, Meara had fewer film roles but continued to work steadily. Among her credits were “Like Mike,” “Chump Change,” and “Night at the Museum,” alongside her son. She also appeared in “Another Harvest Moon” and provided her voice for the animated sequel “Planes: Fire & Rescue,” which was her final project. She also acted in various short films such as “The Yard Sale,” “The Shallow End of the Ocean,” “The Queen of Greenwich Village,” and “Simpler Times.”

Theater Career: A Stage Presence

Meara also maintained a significant career in theater, performing in various Broadway and off-Broadway productions. In the 1950s, she appeared in plays such as “A Month in the Country,” “The Good Woman of Setzuan,” and “As You Like It.” After taking a break from the stage in the 1960s, she returned in 1971 to play Bunny Flingus in “The House of Blue Leaves.” In the 1980s, her credits included “A… My Name is Alice,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Eastern Standard.” She was also a playwright, writing the 1995 Broadway comedy “After-Play,” in which she also starred. Her final theater credit was the off-Broadway play “Love, Loss and What I Wore” in 2011.

Personal Life and Death

Anne Meara was married to Jerry Stiller from 1954 until her passing in 2015. The couple had two children, Ben and Amy. Before her marriage, Meara converted to Judaism. She passed away at her home in Manhattan in May 2015 at the age of 85 after suffering from multiple strokes. Jerry Stiller died almost exactly five years later in May 2020 at the age of 92, leaving a legacy of laughter and love that continues to resonate with audiences.

Anne Meara’s Net Worth: A Financial Snapshot

At the time of her death in 2015, Anne Meara’s net worth was estimated to be $12.5 million. This considerable wealth was accumulated through her successful and long-lasting career in acting, comedy, and writing. The consistent work in television, film, and theater, combined with her popular comedy act with Jerry Stiller, contributed significantly to her financial success. Her earnings reflected her talent and the enduring appeal of her work across various media. It is a testament to her dedication and the impact she had on the entertainment industry.

The Lasting Legacy of Anne Meara

Anne Meara’s legacy extends beyond her financial success. She is remembered as a talented and versatile performer. Her comedic partnership with Jerry Stiller was a significant part of her career, bringing joy and laughter to audiences. Her work in television, film, and theater showcased her acting range and ability to connect with audiences. Anne Meara’s work continues to be celebrated. Her impact on the industry is a reminder of her talent and the enduring appeal of her work, solidifying her place as one of the greats in the history of entertainment.

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