Jessica Lange, an American actress born in Cloquet, Minnesota, has established herself as one of the most accomplished actresses in Hollywood. Her incredible career spans several decades and includes a wealth of awards, nominations, and unforgettable performances in both film and television. With a net worth of $20 million, Jessica Lange has built a legacy that is marked not only by her immense talent but also by her versatility and ability to transform into a wide range of characters. From her early breakthrough in King Kong to her award-winning performances in Tootsie and Blue Sky, Lange has remained a staple in the entertainment industry.
Jessica Lange Net Worth: How She Accumulated Her Wealth
Jessica Lange $20 million net worth is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and talent. The majority of her wealth comes from her extensive career in acting, with lucrative contracts in films and television shows. However, her income is also bolstered by her involvement in theater, photography, and endorsement deals.
Lange’s wealth has been further augmented by her business ventures, such as book sales and her philanthropic endeavors. Her incredible career trajectory, filled with awards, nominations, and memorable roles, has made her one of the most successful actresses in Hollywood history.
Jessica Lange Early Life and Career Beginnings
Jessica Phyllis Lange was born on April 20, 1949, in Cloquet, Minnesota, to parents Dorothy (a school teacher) and Albert (a traveling salesman). She grew up with two sisters and was a naturally artistic child, showing an early interest in the arts. Lange attended the University of Minnesota and later moved to Paris in the late 1960s to study art. It wasn’t until she returned to the U.S. that her acting career began to take shape.
Lange’s entry into the film industry came after she was discovered by renowned film producer Dino De Laurentiis, who cast her in the 1976 remake of King Kong. Although the film didn’t receive critical acclaim, Lange’s performance earned her the Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year. This marked the beginning of her long and prosperous career in Hollywood.
Jessica Lange Rise to Stardom
Following her debut in King Kong, Lange quickly rose to prominence with her performances in films like All That Jazz (1979) and The Postman Always Rings Twice (1981). However, it was her breakthrough performance in Tootsie (1982) that truly launched her into superstardom. In Tootsie, Lange played a soap opera actress named Julie, which earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and catapulted her career into the stratosphere.
Lange’s success was not limited to the silver screen. In 1994, she won another Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of a bipolar housewife in the film Blue Sky. Her acting versatility made her one of the most sought-after actresses of her generation, with roles in films such as Frances (1982), Country (1984), Sweet Dreams (1985), and Music Box (1989). Each of these roles earned her critical acclaim and several award nominations, reinforcing her reputation as an exceptional performer.
Jessica Lange’s Notable Film and Television Roles
Throughout her career, Lange starred in several iconic films that solidified her place in Hollywood history. Some of her standout roles include:
Cape Fear (1991) – Lange starred alongside Robert De Niro in this psychological thriller, which further showcased her range as an actress.
Rob Roy (1995) – In this historical drama, Lange played the role of Mary, the wife of the titular character, adding yet another memorable performance to her filmography.
Big Fish (2003) – Lange played the role of the mother of the protagonist’s wife in Tim Burton’s whimsical fantasy film, Big Fish.
Despite her immense success in film, Lange also made a significant transition to television in the early 1990s, starring in O Pioneers! (1992) and A Streetcar Named Desire (1995). These performances earned her recognition and several nominations for prestigious awards.
The Rise of ‘American Horror Story’
Lange’s career took a fascinating turn when she joined the cast of American Horror Story (2011). This horror anthology series became a defining moment in her career, allowing her to display a wide range of characters over several seasons. She won multiple Primetime Emmy Awards for her roles in the show’s first and third seasons.
Lange’s portrayal of the psychotic, narcissistic character of Constance Langdon in the show’s debut season, Murder House, made her a fan favorite. Later seasons, such as Asylum and Coven, also saw Lange in prominent roles, earning her even more recognition and admiration for her craft.
Feud and Broadway Success
Lange’s talent didn’t go unnoticed in other major television projects either. In 2017, she starred as the legendary actress Joan Crawford in the critically acclaimed FX miniseries Feud, which portrayed the notorious rivalry between Joan Crawford and Bette Davis. Her exceptional performance earned her another Emmy Award nomination, and the series became one of the most talked-about shows of the year.
Not limited to television, Lange returned to Broadway in 2016, where she starred in the Long Day’s Journey into Night revival. Her performance earned her the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play, marking another major milestone in her career.
Jessica Lange’s Personal Life and Philanthropy
In addition to her illustrious acting career, Jessica Lange has also been involved in several charitable and humanitarian efforts. Lange has demonstrated her commitment to social causes, particularly her work with UNICEF as a Goodwill Ambassador. She has actively campaigned for children’s rights and HIV/AIDS awareness in countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Russia.
Beyond her acting and philanthropic work, Lange is also an accomplished photographer. She has published several books showcasing her photography, adding another dimension to her creative career.
Jessica Lange Family and Relationships
Jessica Lange has had a colorful personal life, with notable relationships that have also influenced her career. She was married to photographer Francisco Paco Grande from 1970 to 1982, and during this time, she also had a romantic relationship with Russian ballet dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov, with whom she had her first child, Aleksandra Lange Shura Baryshnikov, in 1981.
In 1982, Lange began a relationship with playwright Sam Shepard. Together, they had two children: Hannah Jane Shepard (born 1986) and Samuel Walker Shepard (born 1987). They lived together for over two decades before parting ways in 2009.
Lange has managed to maintain a relatively private personal life despite her public career, and she has always remained focused on her work and family.
Conclusion
Jessica Lange’s career is one that exemplifies hard work, perseverance, and immense talent. From her early days in Hollywood to her later success in television, Lange has built an incredible legacy that is reflected in her impressive net worth of $20 million. Her versatility in portraying complex and multifaceted characters has earned her numerous prestigious awards, and her philanthropic work has made her a respected figure both on and off-screen.
As Lange continues to be recognized for her contributions to the entertainment industry and her advocacy work, it is clear that her legacy will only continue to grow, and her influence in Hollywood and beyond will remain substantial for years to come.
FAQs
What is Jessica Lange’s net worth?
As of 2024, Jessica Lange’s net worth is estimated at $20 million, primarily from her acting career, but also from her work as a photographer and her philanthropic efforts.
What are Jessica Lange’s most famous roles?
Some of her most famous roles include King Kong (1976), Tootsie (1982), Blue Sky (1994), American Horror Story (2011-2015, 2018), and Feud (2017).
Has Jessica Lange won any major awards?
Yes, she has won two Academy Awards, three Primetime Emmy Awards, and a Tony Award, among other accolades.
What charities is Jessica Lange involved in?
Jessica Lange has been a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has worked on campaigns for children’s rights and HIV/AIDS awareness, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Russia.
Is Jessica Lange married?
Jessica Lange was married to photographer Francisco Paco Grande from 1970 to 1982. She also had long-term relationships with Mikhail Baryshnikov and playwright Sam Shepard.
How did Jessica Lange start her acting career?
Lange’s career began after being discovered by film producer Dino De Laurentiis, who cast her in the 1976 remake of King Kong. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year.
Does Jessica Lange have children?
Yes, Jessica Lange has three children: Aleksandra Lange Shura Baryshnikov (from her relationship with Mikhail Baryshnikov) and two children, Hannah Jane Shepard and Samuel Walker Shepard, from her relationship with Sam Shepard.
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