- Name: Anthony Perkins
- Occupation: Actor
- Date of Birth: April 4, 1932
- Place of Birth: New York City, New York, USA
- Nationality: American
- Parents: Osgood Perkins (father), Janet Esselstyn (mother)
- Spouse: Berry Berenson
- Children: Oz Perkins, Elvis Perkins
- Net Worth: Estimated $10 million (2024)
- Source of Wealth: Acting, Directing
- Ethnicity: Caucasian
- Height: 6’2" (188 cm)
- Notable Works: "Psycho," "Friendly Persuasion," "Fear Strikes Out"
Early Life and Family
Anthony Perkins was born on April 4, 1932, in Manhattan, New York, to stage and film actor Osgood Perkins and his wife, Janet Esselstyn. He was descended from Mayflower passengers and Puritan colonists, tracing his lineage back to John Perkins, who arrived in Boston in 1630.
Childhood and Family Dynamics
Perkins’s relationship with his father was distant, as Osgood was often absent due to his acting career. After his father’s death in 1937, Perkins was surrounded by females, most notably his mother. He developed a close, almost Oedipal relationship with her, feeling guilt and longing after his father’s passing.
Influence of Females in Perkins’s Life
Perkins was surrounded by influential females in his life, including a French nanny and a family friend, Michaela O’Harra. There were rumors of a romantic relationship between his mother and O’Harra, and Perkins later revealed that his mother sexually abused him during his childhood.
Education and Early Acting Career
Perkins attended various schools and eventually found his passion for acting through summer stock programs. He made his Broadway debut in "Tea and Sympathy" and gained critical acclaim for his performance. This success led to his transition to Hollywood and a contract with Paramount Pictures.
Hollywood Success and Struggles
Perkins starred in several successful films, including "Friendly Persuasion," "Fear Strikes Out," and "On the Beach." However, he faced challenges in Hollywood due to his sexuality, leading to conflicts with studio executives. Despite his success, Perkins felt typecast and struggled with the pressure to maintain his image as a teen idol.
Personal Life and Relationships
Perkins’s personal life was marked by his relationships, including his marriage to Berry Berenson and his enduring connection with actor Tab Hunter. He faced discrimination and pressure to hide his sexuality in Hollywood, ultimately leading to his decision to buy out his contract with Paramount.
Later Career and Legacy
Perkins continued to act in films and stage productions, reprising his iconic role as Norman Bates in the "Psycho" sequels. His final film, "In the Deep Woods," was released posthumously after his death in 1992 from AIDS-related causes. Perkins is remembered as a talented actor who left a lasting impact on the film industry.
Financial Insights:
Despite his undeniable talent and success in the entertainment industry, Anthony Perkins’ net worth is estimated to be around $10 million as of 2024. The primary sources of his wealth stem from his acting career, lucrative film projects, and occasional directorial ventures. Perkins’ enduring legacy as a versatile actor has contributed significantly to his financial well-being.
His portrayal of Norman Bates in "Psycho" not only solidified his place in cinematic history but also ensured a steady stream of royalties and residuals over the years. Additionally, Perkins’ investments in real estate and other ventures have helped sustain his financial stability.
