Understanding The Net Worth Of Larry Linville: A Look At His Financial Path
When people think about the lives of actors, especially those from popular television shows that have stood the test of time, a common question often pops up: how much money did they actually make? This curiosity, you know, it's almost a natural thing for many of us. We see these figures on screen, bringing characters to life, and we wonder about their real-world financial standing. Larry Linville, the actor who brought the memorable Major Frank Burns to audiences on the show M*A*S*H, certainly fits into this picture. People often ask about the net worth of Larry Linville, wanting to get a sense of his financial journey during his career and after.
It's a look back at the financial aspects of a public figure's life, trying to piece together the economic picture from his professional endeavors. We are going to explore what is known about his financial situation, pulling together details from his long career in acting. This includes his most famous role and other work he did.
As we look back from today, June 10, 2025, it is quite interesting to consider the financial paths of stars from earlier eras. Their earnings were shaped by different industry standards, very different from what we see in entertainment today. This article aims to shed some light on the net worth of Larry Linville, giving you a clearer idea of his financial legacy.
Table of Contents
- Larry Linville: A Life in Acting
- Early Life and Career Beginnings
- The M*A*S*H Years: A Defining Role
- Life After M*A*S*H: Continued Acting
- Understanding His Income Sources
- Estimated Net Worth Figures
- Factors Influencing His Financial Standing
- Frequently Asked Questions About Larry Linville's Net Worth
Larry Linville: A Life in Acting
Larry Linville was an American actor, widely recognized for his portrayal of Major Frank Burns in the popular television series M*A*S*H. His work on the show made him a household name for many years. He appeared in the series for its first five seasons, from 1972 to 1977. His character was a key part of the show's humor and dramatic moments.
Before his time on M*A*S*H, Larry Linville had already built a considerable resume in both theater and television. He was a trained actor, having studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, England. This background, you know, gave him a solid foundation for his acting career. He appeared in various stage productions, showing his range and commitment to the craft.
His career was not limited to just one role, however famous it became. He took on many different parts in other television shows and movies. These roles, while perhaps not as widely known as Major Frank Burns, still contributed to his overall body of work and, in a way, to his financial standing over time. It is important to look at all of his professional activities when considering his net worth.
Personal Details and Bio Data
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Larry Deane Linville |
| Date of Birth | September 29, 1939 |
| Place of Birth | Ojai, California, U.S. |
| Date of Death | April 10, 2000 |
| Place of Death | New York City, New York, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 1969–2000 |
| Spouse(s) | Kate Geer (m. 1962; div. 1972), Vana Tribbey (m. 1973; div. 1982), Susan Hagan (m. 1982; div. 1985), Kirsten Holmquist (m. 1986; div. 1992), Deborah Guydon (m. 1993) |
| Children | Kelly Linville |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Larry Linville's early life saw him grow up with a passion for performing. He honed his skills at the University of Kansas before moving on to more formal training. His time at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, England, was a significant step. This kind of training, you know, often sets a strong base for a long career in acting.
Upon returning to the United States, he began to get roles in various television shows during the late 1960s. These early appearances, while small, helped him gain experience and get noticed in the industry. He appeared in episodes of shows like "Bonanza" and "Mannix." These were, in a way, stepping stones for bigger things to come.
He also worked in theater, which is a very important part of an actor's development. Stage work, perhaps, allows for a different kind of connection with the audience and helps refine skills. This early work, both on screen and stage, built his reputation and his income gradually, before his major breakthrough role.
The M*A*S*H Years: A Defining Role
The role of Major Frank Burns on M*A*S*H truly defined Larry Linville's career for many. He joined the show in 1972 and quickly became a central figure. His portrayal of the often bumbling and self-important surgeon, so, resonated with millions of viewers around the world. The show was a huge success, and its cast members gained widespread recognition.
Being part of such a successful show for five seasons meant a steady income. Television salaries, especially for a hit show in the 1970s, were substantial for the time. These earnings would have formed a significant portion of the net worth of Larry Linville. The show's popularity, you know, also opened doors for other opportunities, even while he was still on it.
His decision to leave M*A*S*H after five seasons was a personal one, driven by a desire to explore other acting avenues. While the show continued for many more years without him, his contribution during those initial seasons was, very, very impactful. The show's enduring legacy, through syndication, also meant continued recognition for his work, even if direct residuals might have been structured differently back then compared to today's contracts.
Life After M*A*S*H: Continued Acting
After leaving M*A*S*H in 1977, Larry Linville continued to work steadily in the entertainment industry. He appeared in numerous television shows, often in guest roles or recurring parts. These included shows like "Grandpa Goes to Washington," "The Jeffersons," and "Murder, She Wrote." This continuous work, you know, helped maintain his income stream.
He also took on roles in various films, though perhaps none achieved the widespread fame of M*A*S*H. These film projects, like "Earthbound" and "Race to Witch Mountain," added to his overall professional output. For an actor, a consistent flow of work is, in some respects, a key part of building financial stability over time.
Beyond screen acting, Larry Linville remained active in theater. He loved the stage, and this passion often led him to participate in plays. Stage work, while sometimes less financially lucrative than television or film, still contributed to his earnings and kept his acting skills sharp. His dedication to his craft was clear throughout his life, and it kept him employed.
Understanding His Income Sources
Larry Linville's income came primarily from his acting work across different mediums. His television roles, particularly his time on M*A*S*H, would have been the largest source of his earnings. Salaries for main cast members on hit shows are typically quite good. The length of his tenure on M*A*S*H, five full seasons, meant a consistent and significant paycheck for that period.
After M*A*S*H, his guest appearances and recurring roles on other TV shows provided a steady, though perhaps less grand, income. Film roles, even smaller ones, also contribute to an actor's financial picture. These various acting jobs, you know, added up over his decades-long career.
It is also worth considering potential income from syndication of M*A*S*H. While early television contracts often did not include the generous residual payments seen today, actors on long-running shows might still receive some payments from reruns. This could have been a small but continuous source of funds for the net worth of Larry Linville over the years. Other sources might include voice-over work or commercials, which many actors do.
Estimated Net Worth Figures
Estimating the exact net worth of a public figure, especially one who passed away some time ago, can be a bit tricky. Publicly available figures are often estimates, based on known salaries, property records, and other assets. For Larry Linville, various sources have provided figures for his net worth at the time of his passing.
Most commonly, reports suggest that the net worth of Larry Linville was around $5 million at the time of his death in 2000. This figure, you know, represents his accumulated assets minus any debts. It includes earnings from his acting career, any investments he might have made, and property he owned.
It is important to remember that these figures are often based on available public information and industry averages for actors of his stature. They are not always precise, but they give a general idea of his financial standing. The consistency of his work for many years, including a major role on a very popular show, would certainly contribute to a comfortable financial position.
Factors Influencing His Financial Standing
Several factors played a part in shaping the net worth of Larry Linville. His long and consistent career in acting was a major one. Being employed regularly in a competitive industry, you know, helps build wealth over time. His significant role on M*A*S*H, a highly successful and long-running series, was a particular highlight.
The era in which he worked also matters. Salaries for television actors in the 1970s and 80s were different from what they are today. While substantial, they might not compare to the mega-deals seen by some top actors in recent years. This means his earnings, while good, were reflective of the industry's pay scales at that time.
Personal financial decisions, like investments or spending habits, also affect a person's net worth. We do not have detailed public information about Larry Linville's personal financial management. However, a steady income from a successful acting career typically allows for a comfortable lifestyle and the ability to save or invest. You can learn more about acting careers on our site, including how financial aspects have changed over time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Larry Linville's Net Worth
What was Larry Linville's net worth when he passed away?
Reports generally indicate that the net worth of Larry Linville was approximately $5 million at the time of his passing in April 2000. This figure, you know, represents an estimate of his total assets after accounting for any liabilities. It is derived from his long career in acting and various public records.
How did Larry Linville make his money?
Larry Linville earned his money primarily through his acting career. His most significant source of income was his role as Major Frank Burns on the highly successful television show M*A*S*H, where he appeared for five seasons. He also earned money from numerous other television appearances, film roles, and stage work throughout his decades-long career.
Did Larry Linville earn a lot from M*A*S*H?
Yes, Larry Linville likely earned a substantial amount from his time on M*A*S*H. As a main cast member on a very popular show during the 1970s, his salary would have been quite good for that period. This role was a significant financial contributor to the net worth of Larry Linville, forming a key part of his overall earnings. You might also enjoy our piece on classic TV stars and their financial journeys.
For more details on actors' earnings and careers, you could check out resources like Biography.com, which often provides background on public figures.
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