Patty Hearst first captured national attention in 1974 when, as a 19-year-old heiress to the Hearst media fortune, she was kidnapped by the Symbionese Liberation Army (SLA), a radical left-wing group. What followed was a bizarre and highly publicized saga: after weeks in captivity, Hearst seemingly joined her captors, adopting the name “Tania” and participating in a bank robbery. The media frenzy around her transformation from victim to accomplice made her a household name, blurring the lines between coercion and willing involvement. Her eventual arrest, trial, and controversial pardon cemented her place in American pop culture, turning her into a symbol of the era’s social upheaval.

Decades later, Hearst reinvented herself, stepping away from the infamy of her youth to build a quieter but notable public life. She married her bodyguard, Bernard Shaw, and focused on raising a family while occasionally appearing in films and television, often playing eccentric or aristocratic roles that nodded to her background. Her later years have been marked by philanthropy, particularly in support of animal welfare, and a return to the public eye through interviews reflecting on her past. Though her early notoriety defined her, Hearst’s ability to reclaim her narrative demonstrates resilience and an unexpected second act.

Patty Hearst Today’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Patty Hearst’s estimated net worth is around $10 million. The heiress to the Hearst media fortune has maintained wealth through inheritance, investments, and her later career. Despite legal troubles in the 1970s, her family’s substantial assets and her own ventures have contributed to her financial stability.

Career

Patty Hearst gained notoriety after her 1974 kidnapping and subsequent involvement with the Symbionese Liberation Army. Later, she shifted focus to acting, appearing in films like “Cry-Baby,” and authored a memoir. She also worked in philanthropy, supporting causes like animal rescue, leveraging her name for advocacy.

Other Ventures

Beyond acting and writing, Hearst has been involved in dog shows, breeding, and judging competitions. She co-authored a book on dogs and supported animal welfare organizations. Her ventures reflect her personal interests rather than traditional business pursuits.

Assets

Hearst owns real estate, including a Connecticut home, and holds inherited stakes in the Hearst Corporation. Her assets also include art, jewelry, and other valuables passed down through her family, ensuring long-term financial security despite her turbulent past.

Annual Income

While exact figures aren’t public, Hearst likely earns mid-six figures annually from investments, royalties, and occasional public appearances. Her income stems from diversified sources rather than a single career, aligning with her affluent background.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Patty Hearst Today

What is Patty Hearst’s net worth today?

Patty Hearst’s estimated net worth today is around $50 million, primarily inherited from the Hearst family fortune.

How did Patty Hearst acquire her wealth?

Most of Patty Hearst’s wealth comes from her inheritance as a member of the Hearst family, known for their media empire, including Hearst Communications.

Did Patty Hearst receive any financial compensation for her kidnapping ordeal?

No, Patty Hearst did not receive direct financial compensation for her kidnapping, though her family likely covered legal and rehabilitation expenses.

What does Patty Hearst do for a living now?

Patty Hearst has largely stayed out of the public eye but has been involved in philanthropy and occasional media appearances.

Does Patty Hearst still have ties to the Hearst Corporation?

While she is part of the Hearst family, Patty Hearst does not hold an active role in Hearst Corporation’s operations.

How has Patty Hearst’s net worth changed over the years?

Her net worth has remained relatively stable, supported by family trusts and investments.

Did Patty Hearst write any books or profit from her story?

Yes, she co-authored a memoir, “Every Secret Thing,” but it is unclear how much she earned from it.

What legal issues affected Patty Hearst’s finances?

Her legal battles after the kidnapping, including her conviction and later pardon, did not significantly impact her inherited wealth.

Does Patty Hearst own any notable properties?

She owns several properties, including a home in Connecticut, but details about her real estate holdings are private.

Is Patty Hearst involved in any business ventures today?

There is no public information suggesting active business ventures; she focuses on personal and family matters.