Boris Karloff, born William Henry Pratt in London, 1887, began his acting career in the early 1900s. He initially performed in small British theater productions, often taking on bit parts and supporting roles. In 1910, he ventured to Canada and later the United States, continuing his stage work and making his silent film debut in 1916.

Karloff’s big break came in the late 1920s and early 1930s, when he was discovered by Hollywood producers for his unique appearance and deep, resonant voice. His first major role was in the 1931 film “Frankenstein,” directed by James Whale. Karloff’s chilling portrayal of the monster catapulted him to fame, and he became one of the most iconic actors in horror film history.

Boris Karloff’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Boris Karloff’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million, according to the latest available information. This figure takes into account his earnings from his acting career and other ventures.

Career

Boris Karloff, born William Henry Pratt, was an English actor best known for his roles in horror films. He began his career in the 1910s and gained international fame for his portrayal of Frankenstein’s monster in the 1931 film “Frankenstein” and its 1935 sequel. He also starred in other classic horror films like “Dracula” (1931) and “The Mummy” (1932). Karloff’s distinctive voice and menacing presence made him a iconic figure in the genre.

Other Ventures

In addition to acting, Boris Karloff ventured into other areas. He was a prolific voice actor, lending his distinctive voice to numerous films, television shows, and radio programs. He also narrated several documentaries and made guest appearances on various TV shows. Karloff was also a painter and a writer, publishing several short stories and a novel.

Assets

Boris Karloff’s assets included his extensive film and television credits, as well as his literary works. He also owned a home in Los Angeles, California, where he lived until his death in 1969. Karloff’s personal belongings, including his paintings and scripts, were auctioned off after his death, fetching significant sums.

Annual Income

Boris Karloff’s annual income varied throughout his career. In his heyday, he commanded high salaries for his film roles. For instance, he was paid $30,000 for his role in “Frankenstein,” which was a substantial sum at the time. However, his income declined in his later years due to reduced acting roles and health issues. His exact annual income in his final years is not publicly known.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Boris Karloff

What is Boris Karloff’s net worth?

Boris Karloff’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.

When was Boris Karloff born?

Boris Karloff was born on November 23, 1887.

Where was Boris Karloff born?

Boris Karloff was born in London, England.

What was Boris Karloff’s real name?

Boris Karloff’s real name was William Henry Pratt.

What was Boris Karloff’s most famous role?

Boris Karloff is best known for his role as Frankenstein’s monster in the 1931 film “Frankenstein” and its 1935 sequel.

How many films did Boris Karloff appear in?

Boris Karloff appeared in over 200 films during his career.

What was Boris Karloff’s cause of death?

Boris Karloff died of complications from pneumonia on February 2, 1969.

Did Boris Karloff receive any awards for his acting?

Yes, Boris Karloff received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 and was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Motion Picture Drama for his role in “The Sea Wolf” in 1941.

What was Boris Karloff’s height?

Boris Karloff was 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters) tall.

Was Boris Karloff married?

Yes, Boris Karloff was married five times. His last marriage was to Ellen Berezdoff, which lasted from 1945 until his death in 1969.