Dorothy Dandridge, born in 1922 in Cleveland, Ohio, began her career in show business at a young age. She started as a child performer in the 1920s, alongside her sister and mother, forming the Dandridge Sisters, a popular vaudeville act. This early exposure to the entertainment industry sparked her lifelong passion for performing.

In the 1940s, Dandridge transitioned into film and music, becoming one of the first African American women to gain prominence in Hollywood. Her breakthrough role came in the 1954 film “Carmen Jones,” for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, making her the first African American woman to be nominated in that category. This recognition catapulted her to fame and opened doors for other black actresses in the industry.

**Dorothy Dandridge’s Net Worth in 2025**

As of 2025, Dorothy Dandridge’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. This figure takes into account her successful acting career and her contributions to the entertainment industry.

**Dorothy Dandridge’s Career**

Dorothy Dandridge, born in 1922, was an American actress and singer. She was the first African American to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in the 1954 film “Carmen Jones”. Her career spanned over three decades, with notable roles in films like “The Jungle Book” and “Porgy and Bess”.

**Dorothy Dandridge’s Other Ventures**

Dandridge was not only known for her acting but also for her singing. She performed in nightclubs and recorded several songs. She also wrote an autobiography titled “Everything and Nothing: The Dorothy Dandridge Story” which was published posthumously in 1998.

**Dorothy Dandridge’s Assets**

Dandridge’s assets included her home in Los Angeles, which she purchased in the late 1950s. She also owned a collection of jewelry and clothing, many of which were custom-made for her film roles. Her estate also included her share in the publishing rights of her autobiography.

**Dorothy Dandridge’s Annual Income**

Dandridge’s annual income varied throughout her career. In her peak years, she earned around $50,000 per film, which was a significant amount for the time. However, her income was not consistent due to the limited opportunities for black actresses in Hollywood.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Dorothy Dandridge

Dorothy Dandridge Net Worth FAQs

What was Dorothy Dandridge’s net worth?

Dorothy Dandridge’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million at the time of her death.

How did Dorothy Dandridge make her money?

Dandridge made her money through her successful acting career. She was known for her roles in films like “Carmen Jones” and “Porgy and Bess”. She also performed on stage and in nightclubs.

When was Dorothy Dandridge born?

Dorothy Dandridge was born on November 9, 1922.

Where was Dorothy Dandridge born?

Dandridge was born in Cleveland, Ohio.

What was Dorothy Dandridge’s cause of death?

Dandridge died of a drug overdose on September 8, 1965.

Was Dorothy Dandridge the first African American to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress?

Yes, Dandridge was the first African American to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in “Carmen Jones”.

What other awards did Dorothy Dandridge win?

Dandridge won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama for her role in “Carmen Jones”. She also won an Emmy Award for her performance in the television movie “Lady Sings the Blues”.

What was Dorothy Dandridge’s most famous role?

Dandridge’s most famous role was as Carmen Jones in the film “Carmen Jones”.

Did Dorothy Dandridge have any children?

Yes, Dandridge had one child, a daughter named Harlee McBride.

What was Dorothy Dandridge’s height?

Dandridge was 5 feet 7 inches tall.