Marlo Thomas Net Worth, Age, Children

This article delves into the life and accomplishments of Marlo Thomas, an iconic American actress, producer, author, and philanthropist. It provides detailed information about her early life and family background, including her upbringing in a prominent entertainment household led by her father, Danny Thomas. The article also explores Marlo Thomas’ marriage to television host Phil Donahue and her role as a stepmother to his children. Additionally, it highlights her groundbreaking career in television, her impact as a social activist, and her substantial net worth. Readers will gain insight into both her professional achievements and personal contributions to philanthropy, particularly her dedication to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Who is Marlo Thomas?

Marlo Thomas, born on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, is a celebrated American actress, producer, author, and social activist. She rose to prominence during the 1960s, capturing the hearts of many with her talent, charm, and strong personality. Throughout her career, she has been known for her incredible versatility, transitioning from comedic roles to more dramatic performances, and later becoming a household name for her philanthropic work.

A major influence in the entertainment industry, Marlo Thomas has not only achieved great success on-screen but has also established herself as a role model for aspiring actors, women, and advocates of social justice. Her full name is Margaret Julia Thomas, but she is popularly known by her stage name, Marlo.

Marlo Thomas’ Age

As of 2024, Marlo Thomas is 86 years old. Despite her age, she remains active in various capacities, including acting, producing, and championing several causes related to social and health issues. Her energy, dedication, and enduring legacy make her one of the most respected figures in the entertainment industry.

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Marlo Thomas’ Family Background

Marlo Thomas comes from an influential family in the entertainment world. Her father, Danny Thomas, was a famed comedian, singer, actor, and philanthropist. He is best remembered for his long-running television show Make Room for Daddy (also known as The Danny Thomas Show). The show made him a household name in the 1950s and early 1960s, and his popularity helped pave the way for his daughter, Marlo, to build her own career in entertainment.

Danny Thomas was also the founder of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, one of the leading research hospitals in the world dedicated to treating and curing pediatric catastrophic diseases. This institution, founded in 1962, became a major part of Marlo Thomas’ life and continues to be one of her biggest passions.

Marlo’s mother, Rose Marie Mantell Thomas, was of Italian descent and was a supportive figure in the lives of both her husband and her daughter. Raised in a multicultural home, Marlo Thomas grew up learning the importance of family, hard work, and giving back to society, which has greatly influenced her personal and professional life.

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Marlo Thomas’ Husband and Children

Marlo Thomas has been married to Phil Donahue since 1980. Phil Donahue, a television personality, is best known for The Phil Donahue Show, one of the first talk shows that focused on audience participation, engaging in conversations about contemporary issues such as politics, social justice, and family dynamics. Their marriage has been marked by mutual respect, shared passions, and a deep commitment to each other.

Although Marlo Thomas does not have biological children of her own, she became a stepmother to Phil Donahue’s five children from his previous marriage. She has spoken openly about how much she loves and cares for her stepchildren, highlighting how important they are to her life and how fulfilling her role as a stepmother has been. Marlo and Phil have maintained a close-knit family life, with their union representing a blend of two great minds committed to using their influence for good causes.

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Marlo Thomas’ Career

Marlo Thomas made her acting debut in 1960, appearing in various television shows. However, her breakthrough came with the sitcom That Girl, which aired from 1966 to 1971. That Girl was one of the first American sitcoms to focus on an independent young woman pursuing her career and dreams, a premise that resonated deeply with the feminist movement of the time. Marlo starred as Ann Marie, a young aspiring actress living in New York City, and her portrayal of a confident, career-focused woman was revolutionary.

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This role made Marlo Thomas an iconic figure in television history, and it also earned her multiple awards, including a Golden Globe Award for Best TV Actress and four Emmy nominations.

After That Girl, Marlo Thomas continued to expand her career, taking on a variety of roles in films, television movies, and stage productions. She has appeared in hit films such as Playing Mona Lisa (2000), LOL (2012), and Ocean’s Eight (2018), showcasing her ability to take on diverse roles across different genres.

Beyond acting, Marlo Thomas has been actively involved in producing and writing. She produced the acclaimed children’s show Free to Be… You and Me in 1974, which promoted messages of individuality, tolerance, and gender equality. The show became a cultural milestone, winning both a Grammy and an Emmy, and Marlo’s contribution to children’s education and empowerment was widely recognized.

Marlo Thomas is also a well-known author, having penned several books, including Free to Be… You and Me, The Right Words at the Right Time, and Growing Up Laughing: My Story and the Story of Funny.

Philanthropy and Activism

Marlo Thomas’ philanthropic work is as impressive as her career in entertainment. Following in her father’s footsteps, she became a tireless advocate for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, working to raise awareness and funding for pediatric cancer research. Her dedication to the hospital is unwavering, and she has been instrumental in expanding its mission and impact.

In addition to her work with St. Jude, Marlo Thomas is an outspoken advocate for women’s rights and has worked with various organizations focused on social justice, gender equality, and children’s health. She has been honored with numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014, in recognition of her work and contributions to society.

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Marlo Thomas’ Net Worth

Marlo Thomas’ net worth is estimated to be around $150 million as of 2024. Her wealth is primarily derived from her successful career in television, film, and theater, as well as from her books and production projects. Additionally, Marlo Thomas’ involvement in charitable causes and her family’s legacy of philanthropy have contributed to her prominence not only as an entertainer but also as a humanitarian.

Her long-standing marriage to Phil Donahue, a successful television host, has also been a factor in their collective financial success. However, it is clear that Marlo Thomas’ wealth is rooted not only in her financial achievements but also in the impact she has made on society.

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Conclusion

Marlo Thomas is a multi-talented woman who has made significant contributions to both the entertainment industry and the world of philanthropy. From her groundbreaking role on That Girl to her tireless work with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, she continues to inspire people of all ages. With a career spanning over six decades, Marlo Thomas has cemented her place as an icon, proving that passion, talent, and dedication can lead to a life of purpose and success.

As she moves forward in her later years, Marlo Thomas’ legacy will not only be remembered for her work on-screen but also for her profound commitment to making the world a better place for children and families. Her life story serves as a testament to what can be achieved when one combines talent with a genuine desire to effect positive change.

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