Richard Boone Net Worth

What was Richard Boone's net worth?

Richard Boone was an American actor and producer who had a net worth of $5 million at the time of his death in 1981. Richard Boone was born in Los Angeles, California in June 1917 and passed away in January 1981. Richard Boone was the very first actor to ask that his salaries be spread out over multiple years to keep his lifestyle in check and because doing so offered some tax advantages. For example, his multi-million contract for appearing in the series "Have Gun – Will Travel", was spread out over a 20 year period.

Early Life and Military Service

Born in Los Angeles, California, Boone was a direct descendant of the American frontiersman Daniel Boone. After high school, he worked various jobs before enlisting in the U.S. Navy following the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Boone served as an aviation ordnanceman on fighter aircraft during World War II, and after his discharge, he used the G.I. Bill to study acting at the Actors Studio in New York.

Career Beginnings in Theatre and Television

Boone began his acting career in the late 1940s on the New York stage, performing in a number of Broadway productions. His television career took off in the 1950s with roles in live anthology series such as "Studio One" and "Kraft Theatre."

Have Gun – Will Travel

Boone's breakthrough role came in 1957 when he was cast as Paladin in the Western series "Have Gun – Will Travel." As the educated and sophisticated gunfighter-for-hire, Boone captivated audiences with his nuanced performance, making the show one of the highest-rated programs on television during its six-year run.

Film Career and Later Television Roles

While still starring in "Have Gun – Will Travel," Boone also began appearing in films, notably in "The Alamo" (1960) alongside John Wayne. His film career continued throughout the 1960s and 70s with roles in movies such as "The War Lord" (1965) and "Hombre" (1967).

After "Have Gun – Will Travel," Boone returned to television with "The Richard Boone Show," an anthology series that featured a repertory company of actors. Despite critical acclaim, the show lasted only one season. Boone later starred in the medical drama "Hec Ramsey," playing a former gunfighter turned early forensic scientist.

Life in Hawaii and Final Years

In the 1970s, Boone moved to Hawaii and became a self-described "beach bum." He continued to act sporadically in television and film, including a role in the series "Hawaii Five-O," but largely withdrew from Hollywood.

Boone was known for his painting and poetry, and in his later years, he taught acting classes at the University of Hawaii. He passed away on January 10, 1981, from throat cancer.