Grace Hightower Net Worth

Grace Hightower’s Net Worth: A Look at Her Life, Career, and Divorce Battle

Introduction: Unveiling Grace Hightower

Grace Hightower is a multifaceted American personality, known for her roles as an actress, singer, and philanthropist. However, she is perhaps most recognized for her high-profile marriage to the legendary actor Robert De Niro. This article delves into the various facets of Grace Hightower’s life, including her career, philanthropic work, personal life, and the financial details surrounding her divorce from De Niro. We will explore how she built her estimated net worth of $50 million and the events that shaped her public image.

Early Life and Background

Born on April 7, 1955, in Kilmichael, Mississippi, Grace Hightower’s upbringing laid the foundation for her diverse career path. Her early experiences and background remain relatively private, yet they undoubtedly influenced her trajectory, leading her to become a prominent figure in various fields.

From Flight Attendant to Actress and Singer

Grace Hightower’s professional journey began in an unexpected field: as a flight attendant. However, her ambitions soon led her to explore the entertainment industry. She transitioned into acting, appearing in several projects that showcased her talent. Her acting credits include roles in notable productions such as “NYPD Blue,” “Precious,” and “The Paperboy.”

Beyond acting, Hightower showcased her vocal abilities, making a mark in the music industry. She released singles, including “Somethin’s Comin’ My Way,” which was also featured in the film “Precious.” This demonstrates her ability to thrive in different artistic avenues.

Getty Images

Philanthropic Endeavors and Business Ventures

Grace Hightower is actively involved in philanthropy, demonstrating her commitment to giving back to society. She serves on the boards of several prominent organizations, including the New York Women’s Foundation and the New York Fund for Public Schools. Her involvement in these institutions highlights her dedication to supporting various causes and initiatives.

Additionally, Hightower is a member of Ronald Perlman’s Women’s Heart Health Advisory Council and the International Women’s Coffee Alliance. Furthermore, she runs her own charitable organization, Grace Hightower & Coffees of Rwanda, which focuses on improving the lives of Rwandans through international product marketing and distribution. This initiative showcases her entrepreneurial spirit and her desire to make a tangible difference in the world.

Marriage to Robert De Niro and Family

Grace Hightower’s personal life took a significant turn when she met Robert De Niro in 1989 at a restaurant in lower Manhattan. Their relationship blossomed, leading to their marriage in 1997. The couple has two children together: a son, Elliot (born in 1998), and a daughter, Helen Grace (born in 2011 through surrogacy). This family dynamic has been a central part of her life, influencing her public image and personal decisions.

The High-Profile Divorce and Financial Disputes

In 2018, Grace Hightower and Robert De Niro separated, marking the beginning of a high-profile divorce battle that captured significant media attention. While Robert had previously filed for divorce in 1999, the couple reconciled. However, this time, the separation was permanent.

The divorce proceedings involved substantial financial disputes, with Grace Hightower claiming that Robert De Niro’s net worth was at least $500 million and that he earned between $250 and $300 million between 2004 and 2018 alone. Much of Robert’s wealth stems from his successful Nobu restaurant empire and related hotel investments. The legal battle revealed details of their prenuptial agreement, which stipulated that Robert would pay Grace $1 million per year if his income reached $15 million or more, with proportional reductions if his income declined.

As the divorce progressed, further disputes arose. Grace filed a complaint, stating that Robert had unfairly reduced her monthly American Express allowance from $100,000 to $50,000. Robert De Niro countered by claiming that the COVID-19 crisis had severely impacted his income and business ventures, leading to significant financial losses. His lawyers reported substantial losses for the Nobu restaurant chain and claimed that De Niro would be fortunate to earn $7.5 million in 2020. Grace Hightower’s lawyers accused De Niro of using the COVID crisis to manipulate the financial settlement to her disadvantage.

The judge in the case ultimately ruled that reducing the Amex allowance was not unreasonable but also ordered Robert to provide Grace with $75,000 to secure a summer residence, as he was living in their former primary home. These legal battles shed light on the complexities of the divorce and its financial ramifications.

Real Estate Holdings

In 2006, Robert and Grace De Niro acquired a 6,000-square-foot apartment in New York City for $20.9 million from Harvey Weinstein. Following the divorce, Grace Hightower appears to have retained ownership of this property, as she listed it as the sole owner in April 2024 with an asking price of $20 million, signifying a significant asset in her portfolio.

/**/

Grace Hightower’s Net Worth: The Bottom Line

Grace Hightower’s estimated net worth of $50 million is a testament to her successful career and business ventures. Her acting, music, and philanthropic work, combined with her real estate holdings and the settlement from her divorce, have all contributed to her financial standing. While the divorce proceedings highlighted the complexities of her financial situation, her ability to navigate these challenges showcases her resilience and business acumen.

Conclusion

Grace Hightower’s life story is one of multifaceted accomplishments. From her early career to her philanthropic work, her impact is undeniable. Her marriage to Robert De Niro and the ensuing divorce brought her personal life into the public eye, but she has continued to build her net worth and maintain her position as a significant figure. Grace Hightower remains an intriguing personality, and her story is a compelling example of perseverance and achievement.