Introduction:
Don Ameche was a Hollywood legend known for his talents as an actor and voice-over artist. During his lifetime, he appeared in over 90 films and earned several awards, including an Academy Award for his role in “Cocoon.” But there’s more to Ameche’s legacy than just his acting career – he also left behind a sizable fortune. In this blog post, we’ll take a comprehensive look at Don Ameche’s net worth and how he amassed his wealth.
Early Life:
Don Ameche was born Dominic Felix Amici in 1908 in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He was the son of Italian immigrants and grew up speaking both Italian and English. Ameche attended Marquette University, where he studied law, but eventually dropped out to pursue acting. He began his career in Chicago’s theater scene before landing a contract with 20th Century Fox in 1935.
Acting Career:
Ameche’s acting career spanned several decades and included roles in both film and television. Some of his most notable films include “The Three Musketeers,” “Midnight,” and “Trading Places.” Ameche was also a talented voice-over artist and provided the voice for characters in several Disney films, including “The Fox and the Hound” and “Oliver & Company.”
Net Worth:
At the time of his death in 1993, Don Ameche’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million. While this may not seem like a large amount compared to the fortunes of some of his Hollywood contemporaries, it’s important to remember that Ameche lived during a different era. In today’s dollars, his net worth would be closer to $1.8 million.
Investments:
One of the ways that Don Ameche built his fortune was through smart investments. He was an early investor in McDonald’s, which proved to be a lucrative move. Ameche also invested in the construction of a shopping mall in Wisconsin, which provided a steady source of income for him.
Real Estate:
In addition to his investments, Don Ameche also earned money through real estate. He owned several properties, including a home in Beverly Hills and a vacation home in Wisconsin. Ameche also owned land in Hawaii, which he purchased during the filming of “Blue Hawaii.”
Personal Life:
Don Ameche was married to his wife, Honore Prendergast, for over 50 years until his death in 1993. The couple had six children together. Ameche was known for his devotion to his family and often took time off from his acting career to spend time with them.
Philanthropy:
Don Ameche was a generous philanthropist and donated to several charitable causes throughout his lifetime. He supported organizations such as the National Kidney Foundation and the American Cancer Society.
Legacy:
Don Ameche’s legacy as a Hollywood legend continues to live on today. He was posthumously honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1993. Additionally, his contributions to the film and television industry have inspired numerous actors and filmmakers.
Conclusion:
Don Ameche’s net worth may not have been as high as some of his Hollywood contemporaries, but it’s a testament to his wisdom in investing and his dedication to his family and charitable causes. Through his talent as an actor and voice-over artist, Don Ameche left a lasting mark on the entertainment industry.
FAQs:
1. What was Don Ameche’s net worth at the time of his death?
Don Ameche’s net worth at the time of his death was estimated to be around $1 million.
2. How did Don Ameche amass his fortune?
Don Ameche built his fortune through smart investments, real estate, and his career as an actor and voice-over artist.
3. What investments did Don Ameche make?
Don Ameche was an early investor in McDonald’s and also invested in the construction of a shopping mall in Wisconsin.
4. Was Don Ameche married?
Yes, Don Ameche was married to his wife, Honore Prendergast, for over 50 years until his death in 1993.
5. What charitable causes did Don Ameche support?
Don Ameche supported organizations such as the National Kidney Foundation and the American Cancer Society.