Garry Marshall Net Worth

Garry Marshall: A Legacy in Comedy and Film

Garry Marshall was a true icon of American entertainment, whose impact is still felt today. He wasn’t just a writer, director, and producer; he was a creator of laughter, a weaver of heartwarming stories, and a champion of memorable characters. His work has resonated with audiences for decades, from classic television sitcoms to blockbuster films. This article delves into the life and career of Garry Marshall, exploring his early days, his rise to fame, and the lasting legacy he left behind.

Early Life and Education

Garry Kent Marshall was born on November 13, 1934, in the Bronx, New York. He was the eldest child of Anthony Masciarelli, an industrial film director, and Marjorie Ward, who owned a tap dance school. His father later changed the family name to Marshall. Growing up, Garry attended church, first as a Presbyterian and later as a Lutheran. This diverse background likely contributed to his broad understanding of human nature, which he frequently showcased in his work.

He attended De Witt Clinton High School and later Northwestern University. While at Northwestern, Marshall honed his writing skills as a sports columnist for “The Daily Northwestern.” He was also a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. These formative years clearly laid the groundwork for his future success in entertainment.

Career Beginnings: From Jokes to Sitcoms

Marshall’s career began in the world of comedy. He started as a joke writer for comedians like Joey Bishop and Phil Foster, quickly gaining recognition for his wit and ability to craft humorous material. He then took his talents to “The Tonight Show,” where he wrote for Jack Paar. This experience provided a valuable foundation for his future work in television.

In 1961, Marshall moved to Hollywood, teaming up with Jerry Belson to write for television. This partnership proved to be incredibly successful. Together, they worked on some of the most iconic shows of the era, including “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” “The Joey Bishop Show,” “The Danny Thomas Show,” and “The Lucy Show.” Marshall’s early work showcased his remarkable ability to capture the essence of everyday life and transform it into comedic gold.

The Golden Age of Television: ‘The Odd Couple’ and Beyond

Marshall’s creativity extended beyond just writing. He transitioned to creating and producing, with “Hey, Landlord” being one of his early projects. While the show only lasted for one season, it was a stepping stone to even greater success. He adapted Neil Simon’s play “The Odd Couple” into a television series, co-creating what became a cultural phenomenon. The show, starring Tony Randall and Jack Klugman, ran for five seasons and 114 episodes, earning numerous accolades and establishing Marshall as a major force in the industry.

Marshall’s knack for creating memorable characters and relatable situations, combined with his keen comedic timing, set the stage for his future triumphs. He was able to create iconic and relatable characters that resonated with audiences from all walks of life.

Creating ‘Happy Days’ and Beyond: The 1970s and Beyond

The 1970s marked a golden era for Marshall. He created “Happy Days,” a nostalgic look at the 1950s that quickly captured the hearts of viewers. The show became a massive hit, launching the careers of several actors and solidifying Marshall’s reputation as a hitmaker. He later created spin-offs like “Laverne & Shirley” (starring his sister, Penny Marshall) and “Mork & Mindy.” Each show was a resounding success, demonstrating Marshall’s ability to tap into the zeitgeist of the time.

During this time, Marshall collaborated with a variety of writing partners, continuing to expand his creative horizons. He was able to foster strong relationships with other creatives, enabling his projects to succeed.

Directorial Success and Signature Films

Marshall’s career evolved further when he began directing films. He formed a close friendship with actor Hector Elizondo, who appeared in every film Marshall directed, beginning with “Young Doctors in Love.” Elizondo’s frequent presence became a signature of Marshall’s work. Their eighth film together was even titled, “As Usual…Hector Elizondo.”

Marshall’s directorial debut, “The Flamingo Kid” (1984), was a critical and commercial success. He directed other popular films such as “Beaches”, “Pretty Woman,” “The Princess Diaries,” “Valentine’s Day,” and “New Year’s Eve,” which garnered significant box office returns and critical acclaim, solidifying his place as a powerhouse in Hollywood.

(Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)

Marshall’s ability to translate his comedic sensibility and storytelling skills to the big screen proved to be a winning formula. In addition to his directing work, Marshall also continued to act, appearing in shows like “Murphy Brown” and films such as “Soapdish,” “A League of Their Own” and “Lost in America.” He even voiced characters on “The Simpsons” and contributed to “Two and a Half Men.”

Beyond film and television, Marshall was also involved in stage acting, participating in “Wrong Turn at Lungfish,” which he also co-wrote with Lowell Ganz, and “Happy Days: A New Musical.” This demonstrates his diverse skillset.

Throughout his illustrious career, Garry Marshall received many awards and accolades, including recognition from the PRISM Awards, the Producers Guild Awards, the TV Land Awards, the Writers Guild of America, the BAFTA Awards, and the American Comedy Awards. In 1983, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to his immense contributions to the entertainment industry.

Garry Marshall’s Real Estate Legacy

Garry Marshall, in addition to his contributions to entertainment, also had a presence in the real estate world. In 1981, he purchased a beachfront mansion from Debbie Reynolds, located on Carbon Beach in Malibu. This property was sold by Marshall’s family in 2019 for $14.25 million, two years after his passing. The family also still owns Marshall’s longtime primary home in Toluca Lake, a suburb of Los Angeles.

Here’s a video tour of the home:

Personal Life and Legacy

In March 1963, Garry Marshall married Barbara Sue Wells, and they had three children together. His son, Scott Marshall, followed in his father’s footsteps and became a film director. The two co-authored a memoir, “Wake Me When It’s Funny,” with Marshall’s daughter, Lori Marshall.

Garry Marshall passed away on July 19, 2016, at the age of 81, due to complications from pneumonia after suffering a stroke. His passing was mourned by many in Hollywood and by audiences worldwide. Tributes poured in from actors and industry figures who had worked with him.

In the years following his death, Marshall’s legacy has continued to be celebrated. A special, “The Happy Days of Garry Marshall,” aired on ABC, telling the story of his life and career. His contributions to American entertainment continue to influence generations of writers, directors, and producers. His ability to create heartwarming stories, memorable characters, and laugh-out-loud moments solidified his place as a true visionary. Garry Marshall left behind a rich body of work that continues to bring joy and laughter to audiences around the world.