Taylor Hackford Net Worth

Taylor Hackford: Net Worth, Career, Personal Life, and Real Estate

What is Taylor Hackford’s Net Worth?

Taylor Hackford, the acclaimed American film director, boasts a substantial net worth of $100 million. This figure represents the combined wealth of Hackford and his wife, the celebrated actress Helen Mirren. Hackford’s directorial prowess is evident in his impressive filmography, which includes box-office hits like “Ray,” “Proof of Life,” and “The Devil’s Advocate.” His success both behind and in front of the camera has solidified his place as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Education

Born on December 31, 1941, in Santa Barbara, California, Taylor Hackford’s early ambitions leaned towards international relations. He pursued a degree in pre-law at the University of Southern California (USC). However, his path took an unexpected turn. After graduating in 1968, Hackford joined the Peace Corps and was sent to Bolivia. It was there, while documenting his experiences with a Super-8 camera, that his passion for film began to ignite. He made a pivotal decision to abandon his legal aspirations and enrolled in USC’s School of Cinema. He kickstarted his career with a job in the mailroom at the Los Angeles public television station KCET-TV, which he considered a vital training ground for his directorial ambitions.

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Career Beginnings and Breakthroughs

Hackford’s career progressed rapidly at KCET-TV. He was soon promoted to the cultural programming department, where he showcased uninterrupted broadcasts of musical performances by iconic artists like Bonnie Raitt, Cat Stevens, and Leon Russell. Transitioning from cultural programming, he also served as an investigative reporter, earning two Emmys and an Associated Press Award for his work. In 1973, Hackford shifted his focus to film documentaries and quickly achieved critical acclaim, winning Oscars and producing a string of successful movies. A notable example is “An Officer and a Gentleman” (1982). Interestingly, the film almost had a different ending; Richard Gere, the film’s star, initially disagreed with the sentimental ending, deeming it too over-the-top. Hackford, however, stood his ground, and as it turned out, Gere was later moved by the ending when paired with the film’s soundtrack. Hackford mentioned in a 2005 interview that he doesn’t watch his own films.

In addition to his directing accomplishments, Hackford served as President of the Directors Guild of America. He was elected on July 25, 2009, and re-elected for a second two-year term on June 25, 2011. Another of his notable films is “Ray” (2004), for which he received an Academy Award.

Personal Life and Relationships

Taylor Hackford has been married three times. His relationship with his current wife, Helen Mirren, began when she auditioned for his film “White Nights.” Apparently, he kept her waiting for over an hour, which resulted in Mirren being very cold towards him initially. Despite Mirren’s earlier vow never to marry, the couple tied the knot in 1997 after twelve years of dating.

Real Estate Holdings

Hackford and Mirren share multiple residences, including homes in Los Angeles, Provence (France), New York City, New Orleans, and Lake Tahoe (Nevada). Their diverse property portfolio reflects their international lifestyle and success.

In 1986, Hackford bought a 6.6-acre property in the Hollywood Hills. The house was originally built in 1908 for silent film actor Dustin Farnum. In 2014, the couple listed the home for rent for $40,000 per month. In July 2021, they put this property on the market for sale, with an asking price of $18.5 million, or for rent at $45,000 per month.

Their primary residence is located in Lake Tahoe, on the Nevada side, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.

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Conclusion

Taylor Hackford’s impressive career, spanning from investigative journalism to acclaimed film direction, highlights his significant contribution to the entertainment industry. His net worth, combined with his wife Helen Mirren, reflects his success and enduring impact on film and television. His multifaceted career, marked by both creative and leadership roles, cements his legacy as a notable figure in American cinema.