Marlo Thomas has been a familiar name in American entertainment for decades, not only as an actress and producer but also as a passionate activist and philanthropist. With a career that spans television, Broadway, and social impact projects, Thomas has built an impressive legacy. As of 2025, her net worth stands at an estimated $150 million, a combined fortune she shared with her late husband, talk show legend Phil Donahue, who passed away in 2024.
Early Life and Family Background
Born Margaret Julia “Marlo” Thomas on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, she is now 87 years old. Marlo comes from a family deeply rooted in entertainment. Her father was comedian Danny Thomas, the beloved star who later founded St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Her Lebanese and Italian heritage, along with a childhood in Beverly Hills, exposed her early to the arts.
Her father’s influence played a crucial role in shaping her career, as she often accompanied him to sets and shows. She attended the University of Southern California and earned a teaching degree before diving into acting. Marlo also grew up with siblings who went into creative fields, making entertainment a central part of the Thomas household.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
Marlo Thomas began acting in the 1960s, landing small parts in shows like Bonanza, Ben Casey, and My Favorite Martian. She also gained attention on stage, particularly with her performance in Barefoot in the Park in London in 1965. But her true breakthrough came a year later.
In 1966, Thomas landed the role of Ann Marie in the sitcom That Girl. The show became a cultural milestone because it was one of the first series to focus on an independent single woman living on her own and pursuing a career. Running until 1971, That Girl changed how women were represented on TV and earned Marlo critical acclaim.
Her career didn’t stop after the show ended. In 1972, she spearheaded the iconic project Free to Be… You and Me, which included a book, album, and TV special promoting inclusivity, gender equality, and acceptance. It was a bold project for the time and has since become a classic.
Continued Acting and Creative Work
After That Girl, Marlo Thomas stayed active in both television and theater. She appeared in movies, guest-starred on hit series, and performed on Broadway. Over her career, she won multiple Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and even a Grammy for her children’s album.
In 2015, she returned to Broadway in Clever Little Lies, showing that her passion for performance was still alive decades after her breakthrough. She also continued to produce children’s content, including the Grammy-winning album Thanks & Giving All Year Long.
Personal Life and Marriage to Phil Donahue
Marlo Thomas’s personal life has also drawn interest. She had a long relationship with playwright Herb Gardner before marrying Phil Donahue in 1980. Their romance began when she appeared as a guest on his talk show Donahue in 1977, and they quickly fell in love.
Thomas became stepmother to Phil’s five children from his previous marriage, blending into the family with warmth and dedication. The couple enjoyed one of Hollywood’s longest-lasting marriages, remaining together until Donahue’s passing in 2024 at the age of 88. Even in interviews, Marlo often spoke about the importance of love, mutual respect, and independence in their relationship.
Net Worth and Real Estate Holdings
As of 2025, Marlo Thomas’s net worth is approximately $150 million. This wealth is the result of her decades-long career in television, Broadway, books, and music, combined with Phil Donahue’s fortune as a groundbreaking talk show host.
The couple also made smart real estate investments. In the 1980s, they purchased a large estate in Westport, Connecticut, later expanding it and eventually selling it for $25 million in 2006. They also invested in additional property in the same area, which they later sold for $20 million in 2013. Along with these properties, they have owned a luxury apartment in Manhattan. These real estate deals significantly added to their wealth over the years.
Philanthropy and Activism
A central part of Marlo Thomas’s life has always been philanthropy. Following in her father Danny Thomas’s footsteps, she became a key figure in supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Serving as National Outreach Director, she helped raise millions for pediatric cancer research and treatment. Royalties from her books and albums were often donated to St. Jude’s, keeping her father’s mission alive.
In addition to her work with St. Jude, Marlo helped establish the Ms. Foundation for Women in 1973, the first women’s fund in the United States. She has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights, gender equality, and media representation throughout her life.
Awards and Recognition
Marlo Thomas has received numerous accolades, not only for her acting but also for her activism. She has won five Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and a Grammy. For her groundbreaking children’s project Free to Be… You and Me, she earned a Peabody Award.
In 2014, she was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States, recognizing both her contributions to entertainment and her tireless philanthropic work.
Legacy and Influence
At 87 years old, Marlo Thomas continues to inspire both in Hollywood and beyond. Her career broke barriers for women in television, and her activism helped change cultural perceptions about gender and equality. Her philanthropy, particularly with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, has impacted thousands of families and will continue to do so for generations.
With a net worth of $150 million, an award-winning career, and a lasting commitment to making the world better, Marlo Thomas has built a legacy that goes far beyond acting. She remains a symbol of resilience, compassion, and innovation in both entertainment and social activism.
