What Was Anne Bancroft's Net Worth?
Anne Bancroft was a celebrated American actress, writer, and director, known for her versatile performances and significant contributions to the arts. At the time of her death in 2005, she had a net worth of $50 million, shared with her husband Mel Brooks, the iconic comedian and filmmaker.
Awards and Nominations
Anne Bancroft's illustrious career was marked by numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, two Golden Globes, two Primetime Emmys, and two Tonys. She was nominated for five Academy Awards and won Best Actress for her role in "The Miracle Worker." She also received eight Golden Globe nominations, winning twice. Her stellar performances earned her accolades from the BAFTA Awards, the Cannes Film Festival, and various other prestigious organizations.
Career Highlights
Anne's prolific career spanned over several decades with more than 80 acting credits in film, television, and stage productions. Notable films include "The Miracle Worker," "The Graduate," and "Agnes of God." She also shined on Broadway with acclaimed roles in productions like "Two for the Seesaw" and "The Miracle Worker." Anne not only acted but also wrote and directed films such as "The August" and "Fatso."
Film and Television
- "The Miracle Worker" (1962)
- "The Graduate" (1967)
- "Agnes of God" (1985)
- "84 Charing Cross Road" (1987)
- "Honeymoon in Vegas" (1992)
- "How to Make an American Quilt" (1995)
- "Keeping the Faith" (2000)
- "Heartbreakers" (2001)
Stage Performances
- "Two for the Seesaw" (1958)
- "The Miracle Worker" (1959)
- "Mother Courage and Her Children" (1963)
- "Golda" (1977)
- "Duet for One" (1981)
Anne Bancroft was also inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 1992, solidifying her legacy in the performing arts.
Early Life
Born Anna Maria Louisa Italiano on September 17, 1931, in New York City, Anne's early life was shaped by her Italian immigrant parents, Michael, a dress pattern maker, and Mildred, a telephone operator. She grew up in a Roman Catholic household with two sisters. Anne graduated from Christopher Columbus High School in 1948 and furthered her studies at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and the HB Studio. Her stage name change to Bancroft was at the insistence of studio executive Darryl Zanuck for a "dignified" sound.
Personal Life
Anne's personal life was equally remarkable. She married lawyer Martin May in 1953, but the marriage ended in 1957. She later met and married Mel Brooks in 1964, and the couple had a son, Max Brooks, an acclaimed author known for "The Zombie Survival Guide" and "World War Z." Anne and Mel's marriage lasted until her passing in 2005.
Max Brooks' novel "World War Z" was adapted into a major film starring Brad Pitt in 2013.
According to Betty Marvin's memoir, Anne had a brief affair with actor Lee Marvin during the filming of "Gorilla at Large" and "A Life in the Balance" in the mid-1950s.
Death
Anne Bancroft passed away on June 6, 2005, at the age of 73 due to uterine cancer at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan. She was interred at Valhalla's Kensico Cemetery, where her father was also laid to rest. Mel Brooks expressed the difficulty of living without her, highlighting the profound bond they shared.
