Candice Bergen’s Net Worth: A Look at the Actress’s Career and Fortune

Candice Bergen, a name synonymous with wit, talent, and enduring charm, has carved a remarkable path through Hollywood. From her early days as a fashion model to her iconic portrayal of Murphy Brown, Bergen has captivated audiences for decades. This article dives deep into Candice Bergen’s net worth, exploring the sources of her wealth, her impressive career milestones, and fascinating details about her personal life.

Early Life and Education

Born Candice Patricia Bergen on May 9, 1946, in Beverly Hills, California, Candice was destined for the spotlight. Her mother, Frances Bergen, was a model, and her father, Edgar Bergen, was a celebrated actor, comedian, and ventriloquist. Growing up in a privileged environment, Candice attended the prestigious Harvard-Westlake School. She even made appearances on her father’s radio and television programs from a young age, showcasing her early exposure to the entertainment industry. She also made an appearance on Groucho Marx’s quiz show “You Bet Your Life.”

Candice’s academic journey took her to the University of Pennsylvania, where she excelled, becoming Miss University and Homecoming Queen. However, her studies were interrupted when she was asked to leave after failing two courses in art and opera. Despite this, she later received an honorary doctorate from the university in 1992, a testament to her remarkable achievements.

Modeling and Early Acting Career

After leaving university, Bergen pursued a career in modeling, gracing the covers of renowned magazines like Vogue. During this period, she also honed her acting skills by attending the HB Studio in New York City. Her acting debut came in 1966 with a role in the film “The Group,” directed by Sidney Lumet, a family friend. The film was a critical and commercial success, marking the beginning of her transition from modeling to acting.

That same year, she appeared in “The Sand Pebbles,” alongside Steve McQueen, which earned multiple Academy Award nominations and solidified her presence in Hollywood. This early success led to a long-term contract with 20th Century Fox, after her appearance in “The Day the Fish Came Out.” She subsequently appeared in several films in the late 1960s and 1970s, further showcasing her versatility. These included “Getting Straight,” “Soldier Blue,” and “Carnal Knowledge,” where she received overwhelmingly positive reviews.

“Murphy Brown” and Television Stardom

While her film career flourished, Candice Bergen also made her mark on television. In 1977, she became the first woman to host “Saturday Night Live,” and she remains one of the few to join the Five-Timers Club, hosting the show five times. However, it was her role as the titular character in the CBS sitcom “Murphy Brown” that catapulted her to true television stardom.

“Murphy Brown,” which aired from 1988 to 1998 and was revived for a season in 2018, showcased Bergen as a sharp-witted broadcast journalist. The show, though a comedy, tackled serious issues. The role earned Bergen critical acclaim and five Emmy Awards for Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. In a remarkable display of humility, she declined future nominations after her fifth win, giving other actresses a chance to shine. During the run of “Murphy Brown,” Bergen also produced and starred in the 1996 movie “Mary & Tim.”

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After “Murphy Brown,” Bergen was offered a chance to transition into real-life journalism with CBS’s “60 Minutes,” but she declined, citing a desire to maintain a clear boundary between her acting persona and real-world reporting. Her portrayal of a high-powered lawyer, Shirley Schmidt, in “Boston Legal,” further demonstrated her acting prowess, earning her a Golden Globe and multiple Emmy nominations.

Later Career, Personal Life, and Real Estate Ventures

In the years following “Boston Legal,” Bergen continued to appear in television and film projects, including guest roles on popular shows like “House” and the film “Book Club.” She also returned to the stage, making appearances on Broadway in revivals of “The Best Man” and “Love Letters.”

Candice Bergen has been married twice. In 1980, she married French film director Louis Malle. The couple had a daughter, Chloe Malle, in 1985, and remained married until Malle’s death in 1995. In 2000, she married real estate magnate and philanthropist Marshall Rose, who owns extensive properties across the United States.

Bergen and her husband’s real estate holdings have contributed significantly to her net worth. They own properties in Beverly Hills, East Hampton, New York, and Montecito, California. They also own a luxurious apartment in New York City, which is likely worth tens of millions of dollars. These real estate holdings are a testament to their combined financial success.

The Charles Manson Connection

A lesser-known aspect of Candice Bergen’s life involves a connection to the infamous Charles Manson. In the late 1960s, Bergen dated music producer Terry Melcher, the son of Doris Day. Manson, an aspiring musician, sought Melcher’s help in launching his career. Manson even visited the house Melcher and Bergen shared at 10050 Cielo Drive in Los Angeles. This property later became the site of the tragic murders of actress Sharon Tate and others by Manson’s followers. Though there has been speculation, Manson’s actions were not a result of any lingering feelings towards Melcher and Bergen.

Candice Bergen’s Net Worth: A Summary

Candice Bergen’s net worth is estimated to be $50 million, a figure that reflects her decades-long career, successful television shows, film roles, real estate holdings, and business ventures. Her wealth is a result of her talent, hard work, and smart financial decisions throughout her career. Bergen continues to be a relevant figure in the entertainment industry, and her impact on television and film is undeniable.

Candice Bergen’s career has been marked by longevity, versatility, and success. From her early modeling days to her iconic role in “Murphy Brown,” and her subsequent film and television appearances, Bergen has consistently captivated audiences and earned critical acclaim. Her net worth is a reflection of her hard work, talent, and the enduring appeal of her work. Her legacy is a testament to her remarkable career.