Who inherited Gene Autry’s money? The question has intrigued fans and admirers of the legendary actor, singer, and businessman for years. In this blog post, we will explore the life of Gene Autry and uncover the answer to this fascinating question. Discover the amazing legacy he left behind, and learn about the individuals who inherited his fortune. Get ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of the Singing Cowboy.
About Gene Autry
Gene Autry, born Orvon Grover Autry, was an American actor, singer, and songwriter who rose to fame during the golden age of Hollywood. Known as the “Singing Cowboy,” Autry’s career spanned over five decades, from the 1930s to the 1960s, and included film, television, and music. He is the only entertainer to have five stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing his achievements in film, television, music, radio, and live performance.
Gene Autry was also a shrewd businessman, investing in various industries, such as radio and television stations, real estate, and sports teams. One of his most significant investments was in the California Angels, a Major League Baseball team that he founded in 1961. Autry’s wealth grew immensely over the years, and by the time of his death in 1998, his net worth was estimated to be around $320 million.
Who Inherited Gene Autry’s Money?
Gene Autry’s money was inherited by his wife, Jackie Autry. She was the primary beneficiary of his estate and managed his business affairs after his death. Â Jackie Autry continued to oversee the Gene Autry brand and business ventures, ensuring that his legacy lived on through various projects and ventures. She was a strong supporter of preserving his memory and promoting his contributions to the entertainment industry.
Jackie Autry passed away in 2018, leaving behind a lasting legacy of her own as a steward of Gene Autry’s estate. The Gene Autry Foundation, which she helped establish, continues to support charitable causes and promote the values that Gene Autry held dear.
Overall, Jackie Autry played a vital role in preserving the memory of Gene Autry and ensuring that his contributions to music, film, and beyond continued to be celebrated for years to come.
Gene Autry’s Wealth & Estate
Gene Autry, born in 1907, was a multi-talented individual who enjoyed a successful career in music, film, and television. Known as “The Singing Cowboy,” Autry recorded over 640 songs, starred in 93 movies, and hosted a popular television show, “The Gene Autry Show,” which aired from 1950 to 1956.
Due to his successful career, Autry accumulated a substantial fortune. At the time of his death in 1998, his net worth was estimated to be around $320 million. This wealth came from various sources, including royalties from his successful music and film career, real estate investments, and business ventures such as owning the California Angels baseball team.
Distribution of Gene Autry’s Estate
When Gene Autry passed away, his estate was meticulously planned to ensure a smooth transition of his assets. His will and trust outlined the distribution of his wealth to various beneficiaries. Some key elements of his estate plan included:
Spousal Trust: Gene Autry’s wife, Jackie Autry, was the primary beneficiary of his estate. A significant portion of his wealth was placed in a spousal trust, which provided financial support for her throughout her lifetime.
Charitable Giving: Gene Autry was a prominent philanthropist, and his estate plan reflected his commitment to giving back. A substantial portion of his wealth was set aside for charitable causes, including the Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum (now known as the Autry Museum of the American West) and the Autry Foundation.
Family Members: Gene Autry’s estate plan also included provisions for family members, including his nieces and nephews. While the exact amounts left to each family member have not been publicly disclosed, it is known that they were provided for in his will.
Gene Autry’s Family
Gene Autry was married twice during his lifetime. His first marriage was to Ina May Spivey, from 1932 until her death in 1980. The couple had no children. In 1981, Autry married Jacqueline “Jackie” Ellam, a former actress and banker. The couple also had no children together.
As mentioned earlier, Gene Autry made provisions in his estate plan for his family members. His nieces and nephews were beneficiaries of his will, inheriting a portion of his wealth. Additionally, his wife, Jackie Autry, received the bulk of his estate through a spousal trust, ensuring her financial well-being for the remainder of her life.
What Made Gene Autry a Legendary Figure?
Gene Autry was much more than just a singing cowboy. His fame spanned across several industries, including music, film, radio, and television. He was also a shrewd businessman and owned several enterprises, including a television station and the Los Angeles Angels baseball team.
The Singing Cowboy
Autry’s career in the entertainment world began when he was discovered by a talent scout while working as a telegraph operator. His melodious voice and charming persona quickly catapulted him to stardom. Autry’s singing career spanned over three decades, with his most successful hit, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” selling over 30 million copies.
The Cinematic Star
Autry’s success didn’t stop at music. He also had a prosperous career in the film industry, starring in 93 films and numerous television shows. His charismatic cowboy persona resonated with audiences, making him one of the top box-office draws of his time.
The Business Mogul
Behind the scenes, Autry was also a savvy entrepreneur. He owned several businesses, including the Golden West Broadcasters, which owned radio and television stations across the US. Autry was also a prominent figure in Major League Baseball, owning the Los Angeles Angels.
Conclusion
Gene Autry’s money was inherited by his wife, Jackie Autry, and several charitable organizations, including the Autry Foundation and the Gene Autry Oklahoma Museum. His philanthropic legacy continues to make a difference, with his wealth supporting various causes and preserving the rich history and culture of the American West. The Singing Cowboy’s remarkable life and accomplishments live on through the individuals and organizations that inherited his fortune, ensuring that his legacy will continue to inspire and captivate future generations.
