Audrey Meadows Net Worth

Audrey Meadows Net Worth: A Look at the Life and Legacy of the Iconic Alice Kramden

Audrey Meadows, best remembered as the sharp-witted and iconic Alice Kramden from “The Honeymooners,” was much more than just a television star. This article delves into Audrey Meadows’ net worth, her successful career, and the lasting impact she made on the entertainment industry. We’ll explore her early life, the shrewd business decisions that secured her financial future, her roles in television and film, and her ventures beyond acting.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Audrey Meadows was born Audrey Cotter on February 8, 1922, in New York City. She was the youngest of four children born to Episcopal missionaries. Her upbringing instilled in her a strong work ethic and a resourceful nature. Audrey’s older sister was actress Jayne Meadows, and the pair maintained a close relationship throughout their lives. She attended the Barrington School for Girls in Massachusetts. Her initial foray into the world of entertainment began with a role in the Broadway musical “Top Banana.” This experience provided her with valuable training and experience that prepared her for the screen.

The Honeymooners and Residual Success

Audrey Meadows’ breakthrough role came when she joined “The Jackie Gleason Show” in 1952. It was on this show that she began playing Alice Kramden in the popular “Honeymooners” sketches. This role would define her career and bring her widespread recognition. The character of Alice, the long-suffering but loving wife of Ralph Kramden, resonated with audiences and quickly became an iconic figure in American television. Meadows’ portrayal earned her multiple Emmy Award nominations, winning one for “The Jackie Gleason Show.”

One of the key factors that contributed significantly to Audrey Meadows’ financial success was her foresight in negotiating her contract for “The Honeymooners.” Her brother, Edward, acting as her manager, ensured a clause was included that entitled her to residuals from the show’s re-broadcasts. This was a groundbreaking move at the time, and it paid off handsomely for Meadows. As “The Honeymooners” became a syndicated classic, airing repeatedly on television and later available on VHS and other formats, the residuals generated a substantial income for her. This shrewd business decision allowed her to build a considerable net worth. She was the only cast member to benefit from this contractual clause.

While exact figures are hard to confirm, it’s estimated that Audrey Meadows’ net worth at the time of her death in 1996 was around $5 million, which is the equivalent of roughly $10 million today. Her financial success wasn’t just from “The Honeymooners”; she also made smart investments and served on the boards of companies like the First National Bank of Denver. Her marriage to Robert Six, the CEO of Continental Airlines, further bolstered her financial standing.

Television and Film Career

Beyond “The Honeymooners,” Audrey Meadows enjoyed a prolific television and film career. She continued to appear on various television shows, including “Too Close for Comfort” and “Uncle Buck.” She also guest-starred on popular series like “The Red Skelton Hour,” “Alfred Hitchcock Presents,” “Love, American Style,” “The Love Boat,” and “Starsky & Hutch,” demonstrating her versatility and enduring appeal.

Meadows also had a presence in film, though her movie roles were less frequent than her television appearances. She appeared in comedies such as “That Touch of Mink” (1962), alongside Cary Grant and Doris Day, “Take Her, She’s Mine” (1963) with James Stewart and Sandra Dee, and “Rosie!” (1967). While these film roles were not her primary focus, they contributed to her overall career and helped maintain her public profile. Her continued presence in the entertainment industry, both on the small screen and in film, demonstrated her dedication and talent.

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Banking and Business Ventures

Audrey Meadows demonstrated business acumen beyond her acting career. She served as a director of the First National Bank of Denver for 11 years, breaking barriers as the first woman to hold that position. This role underscored her financial knowledge and her ability to navigate the business world. Her contributions to the bank reflect a diverse skill set that extended beyond the entertainment industry.

Furthermore, Meadows was an advisory director of Continental Airlines from 1961 to 1981. In this capacity, she contributed to the airline’s marketing initiatives, including the design of uniforms and aircraft interiors. Her involvement showcases her interest in the business world and her ability to contribute in different areas. These roles highlight her diverse interests and the value she placed on financial stability and success.

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Personal Life and Legacy

Audrey Meadows’ personal life included two marriages. Her first marriage was to Randolph Rouse, a wealthy businessman, in 1956, but they divorced two years later. In 1961, she married Robert Six, the CEO of Continental Airlines, remaining with him until his passing in 1986. This marriage further solidified her connection to the business world and underscored her sophisticated lifestyle. She was also known for her charitable work and contributions to various causes, demonstrating her commitment to giving back to the community.

Audrey Meadows was diagnosed with lung cancer in 1995, a condition that ultimately led to her death on February 3, 1996, at the age of 73. She is buried alongside her second husband in Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City. Her legacy continues through her work on screen and in her memoir, “Love, Alice: My Life as a Honeymooner,” published in 1994. The book provides an intimate look into her life and career, offering insights into her experiences and the people she encountered. In 2002, Kristen Dalton portrayed her in the television biopic “Gleason,” further immortalizing her contribution to American culture. Her portrayal of Alice Kramden continues to be celebrated, and she is remembered as a talented actress, a shrewd businesswoman, and an enduring icon.

Jackie Gleason and Audrey Meadows in 1985 (via Getty)

Conclusion

Audrey Meadows’ life was marked by talent, financial acumen, and a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. From her breakthrough role as Alice Kramden to her ventures in banking and business, she demonstrated a remarkable range of skills and interests. Her foresight in securing residuals from “The Honeymooners” ensured her financial security, while her subsequent career choices and personal life added depth and richness to her legacy. Audrey Meadows remains an inspiration, reminding us that talent, intelligence, and smart decisions can pave the way for lasting success.