What was Robert Blake's Net Worth?
Robert Blake was a renowned American actor with a net worth of -$3 million at the time of his death in 2023. Despite once having a net worth of $10-15 million, Blake's finances took a downturn due to controversy and legal battles following his wife's death in 2001. He was charged with her murder but was acquitted in 2005. However, a wrongful death lawsuit in California found him liable, significantly impacting his financial standing.
Blake gained fame through his roles in films like "In Cold Blood" and the TV series "Baretta." Starting as a child actor, he paused his career to serve in the US Army before returning to acting. He eventually retired after a long and storied career with a final appearance in the film "Lost Highway."
Early Life
Born Michael James Gubitosi on September 18, 1933, in Nutley, New Jersey, Blake moved to Los Angeles in 1938 with his family. He and his siblings started working as movie extras. Sadly, Blake experienced severe abuse from his parents, leading him to run away at 14.
Acting Career
Blake made his film debut at six in "Bridal Suite" and gained fame in the "Our Gang" series by MGM. He also starred in the "Red Ryder" western TV series as a First Native boy. By 17, he had roles in films like "The Black Rose" and "Black Hand."
After being drafted into the US Army in 1950, Blake found it challenging to secure roles post-service. He struggled with addiction but returned to prominence by taking acting classes. Blake's career highlights include roles in "The Purple Gang," "Pork Chop Hill," and a pivotal role in "In Cold Blood" in 1967. His defining role came with "Baretta" in 1975, where his character’s catchphrases became iconic. He continued his career with roles in TV shows like "Blood Feud" and "Hell Town," and movies such as "Money Train" and "Lost Highway."
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Relationships
Blake's first marriage to Sondra Kerr produced two children. He began a controversial relationship with Bonnie Lee Bakley in 1999. Bakley, known for exploiting older men, was dating Christian Brando simultaneously. A DNA test confirmed that Bakley's child was Blake's, leading to their marriage in 2000.
2001 Death of Bonnie Lee
In 2001, after dining out, Blake claimed he returned to the restaurant to fetch a pistol he left behind while his wife was shot fatally in their car. The police found the weapon he mentioned, but it was not the murder weapon, leading to suspicion and his subsequent arrest.
Legal Issues
In 2002, Blake faced arrest for his wife's murder. His bodyguard was also implicated. A 2005 civil court decision held Blake liable for wrongful death based on witness accounts of him attempting to hire people to murder his wife. Despite a lack of conclusive evidence and absence of gunpowder residue, Blake was found not guilty. However, the wrongful death lawsuit led to a $30 million settlement, reduced later to $15 million.
Financial Issues
Blake's financial troubles peaked in 2006 when facing a $30 million settlement, causing him to file for bankruptcy. He owed $1.1 million in back taxes and had significant legal fees, leading him to contemplate an acting comeback, which he eventually decided against at 85, feeling "half-dead."
Real Estate
Blake acquired a Studio City compound in 1983, selling it in 2001 for $1 million. The residence, featuring seven bedrooms and nearly 5,000 square feet, changed owners multiple times, selling for $1.5 million in 2003 and $3.35 million in 2018, above the asking price.
