Dina Merrill’s Net Worth: A Look into the Life and Legacy of an Heiress and Actress

Introduction: The Enigmatic Dina Merrill

Dina Merrill, a name synonymous with elegance, wealth, and a surprising acting career, left an indelible mark on Hollywood and high society. But what was Dina Merrill’s net worth, and how did she amass such a significant fortune? This article delves into the life of Dina Merrill, exploring her impressive net worth, her acting career, and her family’s influential legacy.

Early Life and Family Fortune

Born Nedenia Marjorie Hutton on December 29, 1923, in New York City, Dina Merrill was born into immense wealth. Her mother, Marjorie Merriweather Post, was a celebrated socialite and heiress to the Post Cereals fortune. Her father, Edward Francis Hutton, was a prominent Wall Street stockbroker and the founder of E. F. Hutton & Co. This upbringing provided Dina with a privileged life, opening doors to exclusive opportunities and shaping her future. At the time of her death, Dina Merrill’s mother’s fortune was equivalent to $5 billion.

Dina Merrill’s Prolific Acting Career

While her wealth was inherited, Dina Merrill forged her own path in the world of entertainment. Although her initial ambition was to become an artist, she eventually changed her name and embarked on an acting career, finding success in both film and television. She studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where she was tutored by the renowned Uta Hagen. Merrill’s on-screen career began in 1957 with the film “Desk Set.” Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Merrill starred in numerous films, becoming a well-known face in Hollywood.

• “Desk Set” (1957): One of her earliest notable film roles.
• “A Nice Little Bank That Should Be Robbed” (1958): A role that helped cement her presence in Hollywood.
• “Don’t Give Up The Ship” (1959): Another film appearance from this period.
• “Operation Petticoat” (1959): Starring alongside Cary Grant.
• “The Sundowners” (1960)
• “Butterfield 8” (1960)
• “The Young Savages” (1961)
• “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father” (1963)

Her career continued into the later decades, with roles in films like “The Greatest” and “A Wedding.” Even in the 1980s and 1990s, Merrill remained active, appearing in films such as “Caddyshack II,” “Fear,” and “Suture.” Her last major role came in the 2000s with the film “Shade.”

Dina Merrill on Television: A Small Screen Star

Besides her film work, Dina Merrill was a recognizable figure on television. She starred in numerous made-for-TV movies and guest-starred in many popular series. Her versatility and presence on television allowed her to reach a broad audience, cementing her status as a household name.

• Made-for-TV movies: “Seven in Darkness,” “The Lonely Profession,” “Family Flight,” and “The Tenth Month.”
• Television series: She appeared in numerous shows, including “Batman,” “Bonanza,” “The Alfred Hitchcock Hour,” “The Investigators,” “The Bold Ones,” “The Love Boat,” “Quincy, M.E.,” “Murder, She Wrote,” “Roseanne,” and “The Nanny.”
• Game show appearances: Regularly featured on “The Match Game,” “To Tell the Truth,” “What’s My Line,” and “Hollywood Squares.”

Her extensive television work showcased her range and ability to captivate audiences across different genres.

Mar-a-Lago and the Post Family Legacy

Dina Merrill’s mother, Marjorie Merriweather Post, built the iconic Mar-a-Lago resort. Post willed the estate to the U.S. government, but the offer was declined. The estate was later returned to the Post Foundation. Dina, as the heiress of the Post Foundation, along with her sister, decided to sell the property. Donald Trump eventually acquired the property. This part of her life highlights the grand scale of her family’s influence and the complexities of maintaining such opulent properties.

Relationships and Family Life

Dina Merrill’s personal life was as fascinating as her professional one. She was married three times, each relationship adding layers to her story. Her first marriage was to Stanley M. Rumbough Jr., with whom she had three children. Notably, two of her children had middle names reflecting their family’s wealth. After divorcing Rumbough Jr., she married Cliff Robertson, followed by her final marriage to Ted Hartley. These relationships contributed to her complex and interesting life.

The Passing of a Hollywood Icon

Dina Merrill passed away on May 22, 2017, at the age of 93, leaving behind a rich legacy. She had been suffering from dementia with Lewy bodies in her final years. Her passing marked the end of an era, yet her influence on film, television, and society endures.

Real Estate Ventures: Dina’s Legacy in Property

In 2018, after her passing, Dina Merrill’s estate in East Hampton Village sold for $8.2 million. The buyer was her daughter, Nedenia Rumbough. This further shows the continuation of her family’s influence and involvement in high-value properties.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Dina Merrill

Dina Merrill was more than an actress; she was a symbol of an era, a testament to family wealth, and a successful woman in her own right. Her impressive net worth, combined with her acting career and the enduring legacy of her family, makes her a captivating figure. Dina Merrill’s story is one of privilege, talent, and lasting influence, cementing her place in Hollywood history.