- Name: Betty Garrett
- Occupation: Actress, Singer, Dancer
- Date of Birth: May 23, 1919
- Place of Birth: St. Joseph, Missouri, USA
- Nationality: American
- Spouse: Larry Parks
- Children: Garrett Parks, Andrew Parks
- Net Worth: Estimated at $5 million in 2024
- Source of Wealth: Acting, Singing, Dancing
- Ethnicity: Caucasian
- Height: 5’5" (165 cm)
- Notable Works: "On the Town," "My Sister Eileen," "Laverne & Shirley"
Early Life and Education
Betty Garrett was born on May 23, 1919, in Saint Joseph, Missouri, to Elizabeth and Curtis Garrett. After her parents’ divorce, she and her mother moved to Seattle, Washington. Garrett’s mother managed a sheet music department, while her father worked as a traveling salesman. When she was eight, her mother remarried, but the marriage ended due to infidelity. They then settled in Regina, Saskatchewan, before returning to Seattle. Garrett attended the Annie Wright School in Tacoma on a scholarship, where she developed a passion for performing arts.
Career Beginnings in New York
In 1936, Garrett and her mother moved to New York City, where she enrolled at the Neighborhood Playhouse. She received training in dance, drama, music, and Shakespearean classics. During this time, she performed with Martha Graham’s dance company, joined the Communist Party, and appeared in various productions. Garrett’s Broadway debut came in 1942 in the revue "Of V We Sing," leading to roles in other musicals and plays, including "Call Me Mister," for which she received critical acclaim.
Film and Television Career
In 1947, Garrett signed a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and made her film debut in "Big City." She appeared in several musical films before transitioning back to Broadway and television. In the 1970s, she gained recognition for her roles in sitcoms like "All in the Family" and "Laverne & Shirley." Garrett continued to work in television, appearing in shows like "The Golden Girls," "Boston Public," and "Becker," as well as in Broadway plays and revivals.
Personal Life and Activism
Garrett married actor Larry Parks in 1944, and they had two sons. Both Garrett and Parks faced scrutiny during the McCarthy era due to their past affiliations with the Communist Party. While Parks was forced to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee, Garrett faced challenges finding work. Despite this, the couple owned multiple apartment buildings in Los Angeles and continued to perform in various venues. Garrett remained politically active, supporting Democratic candidates like Adlai Stevenson.
Later Years and Legacy
In her later years, Garrett received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2003 and was honored by Theatre West on her 90th birthday in 2009. She continued to work in film, television, and theater, earning critical acclaim for her performances. Garrett passed away on February 12, 2011, in Los Angeles at the age of 91. Her contributions to entertainment, activism, and the performing arts industry left a lasting impact on audiences and fellow artists alike.
Financial Insights:
As of 2024, Betty Garrett’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. The primary sources of her wealth stem from her successful career in acting, singing, and dancing. Through her work in Broadway, film, and television, Garrett not only earned a substantial income but also solidified her legacy as a talented and versatile entertainer.
Factors contributing to Betty Garrett’s wealth include her consistent presence in the entertainment industry, her ability to excel in various mediums, and her enduring popularity among audiences. Additionally, Garrett’s smart financial decisions and investments have helped secure her financial stability over the years.
