Faith Ford Net Worth

Faith Ford: From ‘Murphy Brown’ to a $6 Million Net Worth

Faith Ford is a celebrated American actress, best known for her roles in the hit sitcoms “Murphy Brown” and “Hope & Faith.” Beyond her successful television career, she’s also made a mark in film and even authored a cookbook. This article delves into the life and career of Faith Ford, exploring her journey from a budding actress to a household name, and ultimately, the factors contributing to her impressive net worth.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born Patricia F. Ford on September 14, 1964, in Alexandria, Louisiana, Faith Ford’s early life was rooted in the American South. She was the younger daughter of Patricia, a schoolteacher, and Charles, an insurance agent. Her upbringing in Pineville, Louisiana, provided the foundation for her future endeavors. Ford’s older sister, Devon O’Day, also pursued a career in the entertainment industry, highlighting the artistic influences within the family. It was during her high school years at Pineville High School that Ford began acting, foreshadowing her eventual move into the professional acting world. After graduating, she moved to New York City to further her aspirations.

‘Murphy Brown’ and Television Stardom

Ford’s career began with appearances in soap operas, a common starting point for many actors. She played Muffy Critchlow on “One Life to Live” in 1983 and Julia Shearer on “Another World” from 1983 to 1984. Guest roles on series like “Hardcastle and McCormick” and “Webster” followed. In 1987, she secured a leading role as the ditzy cheerleader Lynn Holly Brickhouse in the short-lived sitcom “The Popcorn Kid.” That same year, she took on a recurring role in the drama series “thirtysomething.” However, it was her role as Corky Sherwood, the bubbly and somewhat naive reporter, on the CBS sitcom “Murphy Brown” that launched Ford to national fame.

Starring alongside Candice Bergen, Ford appeared in 250 of the show’s 260 episodes, earning five Emmy Award nominations for her performance. The show, which aired for ten seasons, was a critical and commercial success, solidifying Ford’s position in the industry. Her portrayal of Corky became iconic, endearing her to audiences and establishing her as a key figure in television comedy.

Post-‘Murphy Brown’ Ventures

After “Murphy Brown” concluded its initial run in 1998, Ford continued her television career, taking on various roles in different sitcoms. She starred in “Maggie Winters,” but the show was short-lived. She then joined “The Norm Show” in its second season as Shelly Kilmartin, a probation officer, and remained on the show until its finale in 2001. She starred in the 2002 television film “Mom’s on Strike.” From 2003 to 2006, she starred opposite Kelly Ripa on the sitcom “Hope & Faith,” where she played Hope Shanowski, a mother of three. After “Hope & Faith,” Ford had a main role on the short-lived sitcom “Carpoolers.” Her versatility allowed her to adapt to various comedic settings and characters.

Film Career and Other Ventures

While primarily known for her television work, Ford also ventured into film, making her debut in 1987 with the comedy “You Talkin’ to Me?” Subsequent film roles included a part in Rob Reiner’s adventure dramedy “North” (1994) and the direct-to-video sequel “Sometimes They Come Back… for More” (1998). She appeared in “Beethoven’s 5th” (2003) and in Disney’s action comedy “The Pacifier” (2005), starring Vin Diesel. Ford also appeared in Disney’s teen romcom “Prom” (2011), and in 2023, she played Barbara Mangold in Netflix’s supernatural horror comedy “We Have a Ghost.”

Faith Ford’s Net Worth and Financial Success

Through her extensive and varied career in television and film, along with other ventures, Faith Ford has amassed a net worth of $6 million. This financial success is a testament to her consistent work ethic and ability to secure roles in popular and long-running series like “Murphy Brown.” Syndication and residuals from her numerous television appearances have undoubtedly contributed significantly to her earnings, providing a steady income stream over the years.

Getty Images

Personal Life and Real Estate

Beyond her professional achievements, Ford’s personal life has also garnered attention. She married Robert Nottingham in 1989, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1996. Two years later, she married writer-director Campion Murphy, with whom she collaborated on the short film “Citation of Merit.” Ford also deals with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid. She was diagnosed in the late 1980s, adding another layer to her life experiences. In terms of real estate, in November 2005, Faith Ford bought a half-acre property with a 3,500-square-foot mansion in Brentwood. She sold this home in March 2012 for $4.8 million. Shortly before selling her LA home, Ford purchased a 3-acre property in Pineville, Louisiana, featuring a 12,600-square-foot mansion and a private lake.

Legacy and Ongoing Work

Faith Ford’s career is a testament to her talent and resilience in the entertainment industry. Her portrayal of Corky Sherwood on “Murphy Brown” remains a beloved role, and her ability to transition between different projects has kept her relevant for decades. In 2004, she published the cookbook “Cooking with Faith,” showcasing her interest in gastronomy. Ford reprised her role as Corky Sherwood in the 2018 reboot of “Murphy Brown,” proving the enduring appeal of her character. Her continued work in television and film indicates that she remains an active and sought-after actress. Ford’s contributions to the entertainment industry have solidified her place as a respected actress, and her body of work continues to entertain audiences worldwide.

Faith Ford’s journey is a compelling story of persistence, talent, and adaptability. From her early roles to her iconic portrayal of Corky Sherwood, she has consistently demonstrated her versatility and commitment to her craft. With a net worth of $6 million and a career spanning several decades, Faith Ford has not only achieved financial success but has also left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.