Amanda Pays at a Glance
- Categories: Celebrities > Actors, Celebrities
- Net Worth: $16 Million
- Birthdate: Jun 6, 1959 (65 years old)
- Birthplace: London
- Gender: Female
- Profession: Actor, Designer, Presenter
- Nationality: England
- Height: 5 ft 6 in (1.7 m)
Amanda Pays’ Net Worth: A Deep Dive into Her Career and Finances
Amanda Pays is a celebrated British actress known for her diverse roles and enduring presence in the entertainment industry. This article delves into Amanda Pays’ net worth, exploring her career trajectory, from her early days as a model to her memorable roles in television and film. We’ll also examine her personal life, including her marriage to actor Corbin Bernsen and their joint ventures in real estate. The combined net worth of Amanda Pays and Corbin Bernsen is estimated to be $16 million.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Amanda Pays was born on June 6, 1959, in London, England, to Howard Pays, a talent agent and former actor, and Jan Miller, an actress and writer. Growing up in a creative household, Pays was immersed in the entertainment world from a young age. This early exposure sparked her interest in the performing arts and laid the foundation for her future career. Her parents’ influence undoubtedly played a significant role in her decision to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. This early upbringing provided her with valuable insights and connections that would prove beneficial throughout her career.
From Catwalks to the Screen: Pays’ Modeling Career
Before she became a familiar face on television and film, Amanda Pays embarked on a successful career as a model. With her striking features, poise, and captivating presence, she quickly gained recognition in the fashion world. Pays worked with renowned fashion houses and appeared in prestigious magazines, gracing the pages of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle. Her modeling career provided her with opportunities to travel and experience diverse cultures, which broadened her worldview and artistic sensibilities. This experience not only honed her on-camera skills but also exposed her to various creative environments, preparing her for the demands of acting. Furthermore, her modeling work allowed her to build a strong network within the industry, opening doors to future opportunities.
During her modeling tenure, Pays also ventured into hosting television programs. In the early 1980s, she co-hosted the British music show “The Tube” alongside Jools Holland and Paula Yates. This experience proved to be a valuable stepping stone, allowing Pays to develop her on-camera presence and further cultivate her interest in acting.

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Amanda Pays’ Acting Breakthrough and Iconic Roles
Amanda Pays transitioned from modeling to acting in the early 1980s, making her acting debut with a guest role on the British television series “Play for Today” in 1982. Her first significant role came in 1981 when she starred as Phyllida Trant in the TV miniseries “The Flame Trees of Thika.” This critically acclaimed series, set in colonial Kenya, provided Pays with the opportunity to showcase her talent in portraying complex characters, establishing her as a rising star in the industry.
In 1984, Pays made her feature film debut in “Oxford Blues,” a comedy-drama alongside Rob Lowe. Following this, she took on the role of Theora Jones in the groundbreaking British cyberpunk television film “Max Headroom: 20 Minutes into the Future” (1985) and its spin-off series “Max Headroom” (1987-1988). Her portrayal of the intelligent and resourceful Theora Jones further solidified her reputation as a versatile actress capable of handling diverse roles. The role in “Max Headroom” showcased her ability to embrace the futuristic and unconventional, a testament to her range.
Pays continued to work in film, appearing in movies such as the science fiction horror film “Leviathan” (1989) with Peter Weller and Richard Crenna. However, it was her role as Dr. Christina “Tina” McGee in the 1990 television series “The Flash” that became one of her most iconic performances. Pays’ character, a scientist and love interest for the titular hero, resonated with audiences and showcased her ability to bring depth and nuance to her roles. This role has continued to define her career.
The Flash and Beyond: Continuing Success on Television
Throughout her acting career, Amanda Pays has made guest appearances in a variety of television shows, displaying her adaptability across different genres. She appeared in series such as “Riptide” (1984), “The X-Files” (1999), and “Nip/Tuck” (2005). This versatility allowed her to explore dramatic, science fiction, crime, and mystery roles. These appearances kept her in the public eye and allowed her to build a loyal fan base. Her ability to move seamlessly between different roles is a testament to her skill.
In 2014, Pays reprised her role as Dr. Tina McGee in the CW’s revival of “The Flash,” demonstrating her enduring connection to the character and her lasting impact on the superhero genre. This return was a significant event for fans and a testament to the popularity of her original portrayal. More recently, she has appeared in shows such as “Psych” (2008) and “Suits” (2019), keeping her active and engaged in the current television landscape.
Personal Life, Real Estate Ventures, and Combined Net Worth
Amanda Pays married actor Corbin Bernsen in 1988, and the couple has four sons together. Pays and Bernsen have also collaborated professionally, with Pays appearing in several episodes of “L.A. Law,” in which Bernsen starred. Their long-lasting marriage is a testament to their commitment and has allowed them to build a stable family life. Together, they have fostered a shared career.
Beyond their acting careers, Amanda Pays and Corbin Bernsen have ventured into real estate, developing a successful side business. They have renovated and sold over 20 homes in the Los Angeles area since the 1990s. For example, in August 2015, they purchased a home in Sherman Oaks for $1.275 million, which they flipped a year later for $1.55 million. Around the same time, they sold their primary residence in Valley Village, California, for $2.55 million, along with another nearby home for $1.4 million to singer/actress Katherine McPhee. In 1995, they sold a 7,000-square-foot home to Steve Martin for $3.175 million, which remains his primary residence in California. When not flipping homes in Los Angeles, the couple also owns a farm in France. This diversification of income has contributed significantly to their financial success. Their real estate ventures have increased their wealth and demonstrated their entrepreneurial spirit, contributing to their combined net worth of $16 million.
Conclusion
Amanda Pays has had a successful and diverse career spanning modeling, acting, and real estate. From her early modeling days to her iconic roles in “The Flash” and beyond, Pays has captivated audiences with her talent and versatility. Her marriage to Corbin Bernsen and their joint real estate ventures have further solidified her financial success. Amanda Pays’ estimated net worth reflects her hard work, talent, and smart financial decisions over the years.