Jane Wyman, born Sarah Jane Mayfield on January 5, 1917, in St. Joseph, Missouri, is a name etched in the annals of Hollywood history. She was a legendary actress, singer, and dancer whose extraordinary career spanned over five decades. Known for her iconic roles in films such as Johnny Belinda and the TV series Falcon Crest, Wyman blazed a trail in the entertainment industry, earning numerous accolades along the way. At the time of her passing on September 10, 2007, Jane Wyman net worth was estimated at an impressive $15 million, underscoring her success and financial acumen in a competitive industry.
This biography explores her life, from her humble beginnings to her glittering career, touching on her personal and professional triumphs, struggles, and legacy.
Early Life and Family Background
Humble Beginnings in Missouri
Jane Wyman was born into modest circumstances to Manning Jeffries Mayfield, a meal company laborer, and Gladys Hope, a stenographer. Her early years were marked by hardship; her parents divorced when she was just four years old, and her father passed away shortly after. Following these traumatic events, young Sarah Jane was sent to live with foster parents Emma and Richard Fulks, a change that profoundly shaped her early life.
Despite these challenges, she exhibited an independent spirit. At the age of 11, Wyman relocated with her foster mother to Southern California, where she began dreaming of a brighter future. Shortly after, they moved back to Missouri, where Wyman attended Lafayette High School—a path she eventually abandoned to pursue her entertainment career.
A Determined Beginning
By the age of 15, Wyman forged her birthdate to appear older, enabling her to work legally as a professional singer on radio broadcasts under the pseudonym Jane Durrell. Her talent and tenacity were instrumental in propelling her forward and laid the foundation for her future success in Hollywood.
Career Highlights
The Dawn of Stardom
Jane Wyman’s Hollywood story began in 1932, when she made her film debut as an uncredited chorus girl in The Kid from Spain. Over the next few years, she worked tirelessly in minor and supporting roles, carving out her niche in the competitive world of cinema. She signed a contract with Warner Bros. in 1936, a pivotal step in her career that led to several notable performances.
Oscar-Winning Performance in Johnny Belinda
Wyman’s big break came in 1948 with her Academy Award-winning performance as Belinda MacDonald, a deaf-mute rape survivor in Johnny Belinda. The role demanded not a single spoken word—a testament to her unparalleled ability to communicate emotion through expression. Her exceptional work in the film earned Wyman the Oscar for Best Actress, propelling her to the forefront of Hollywood’s elite.
Other Memorable Roles
Over the next decade, Wyman appeared in celebrated films such as:
- Magnificent Obsession (1954), which earned her a fourth Academy Award nomination.
- All That Heaven Allows (1955), a romantic drama that showcased her depth as an actress.
- The Yearling (1946), for which she garnered her first Academy Award nomination.
Wyman’s work extended beyond film, as she left an indelible mark on television. From 1981 to 1990, she starred as Angela Channing, the ruthless matriarch in the primetime soap opera Falcon Crest. Her portrayal was met with widespread acclaim, earning her a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Drama Series in 1984.
Television Ventures
Wyman hosted and produced Jane Wyman Presents (1955–1958), a television anthology series that allowed her to showcase her versatility. She was praised for her ability to transition seamlessly from films to the small screen, securing her place as one of Hollywood’s iconic figures.
Singing and Dancing
While Wyman is best remembered for her acting, she also had a brief but noteworthy career as a singer. Signed to Decca Records, she recorded several popular tracks, including “Zing a Little Zong,” which earned her recognition and expanded her artistic repertoire.
Jane Wyman Net Worth and Financial Success
At the time of her passing in 2007, Jane Wyman net worth was estimated at $15 million. Her wealth was largely accumulated through decades of success in Hollywood as an actress, producer, and singer. Contributions to her net worth included:
- Salaries from her groundbreaking roles in films and TV.
- Royalties from her recordings and syndicated television performances.
- Strategic investments during her lifetime.
Below is a quick breakdown of her career accomplishments and assets:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sarah Jane Mayfield |
| Date of Birth | January 5, 1917 |
| Height | 5 ft 2 in (1.59 m) |
| Net Worth (2007) | $15 Million |
| Oscar Wins | 1 (Johnny Belinda, 1948) |
| Golden Globe Wins | 4 |
| Notable TV Show | Falcon Crest |
| Close Ties | Ronald Reagan (Ex-Husband) |
Personal Life and Struggles
Relationships and Marriages
Beyond her professional achievements, Wyman’s personal life garnered significant attention. She was married four times:
- To salesman Ernest Wyman in 1933—a brief union that ended in divorce.
- To dress manufacturer Myron Futterman, whom she divorced after three months.
- To actor Ronald Reagan, her most famous marriage, which lasted from 1940 to 1949. Together they had three children, including Maureen Reagan and an adopted son, Michael.
- Finally, to composer Frederick Karger, with whom she had a turbulent relationship, marrying and divorcing him twice.
Though her personal life had its share of heartache, including the death of her daughter Christine shortly after birth, Wyman remained resilient, channeling her experiences into her art.
Later Years and Health Battles
Wyman faced significant health issues in her later years, including arthritis and diabetes, which limited her public appearances. She became increasingly reclusive, focusing on painting and philanthropy until her death in Rancho Mirage, California, at the age of 90.
Legacy and Impact
Jane Wyman’s legacy is defined by her trailblazing career and contributions to the entertainment industry. From her Academy Award-winning performance in Johnny Belinda to her commanding presence on Falcon Crest, she exemplified versatility and talent. Beyond her artistic achievements, Jane Wyman net worth stands as a testament to her enduring impact and financial prudence.
