Meredith Baxter, a household name in Hollywood, rose to fame for her roles in iconic television series and heartfelt performances in films. With a career spanning over five decades, she has built an enduring legacy in the entertainment industry. Known for her talent and resilience, Baxter has achieved recognition and amassed wealth through acting, producing, and more. This biography dissects Meredith Baxter net worth, exploring her career milestones, financial growth, and lifestyle.
The Start of an Iconic Journey
Born on June 21, 1947, in South Pasadena, California, Meredith Ann Baxter seemed destined for stardom. Growing up as the daughter of radio announcer Tom Baxter and actress Whitney Blake, the arts influenced her life from an early age. However, her upbringing wasn’t without its struggles. After her parents divorced when she was six, Baxter and her two older brothers were raised primarily by their mother, a trailblazer in her own right.
Baxter’s school years were spent balancing academics and artistic pursuits. She initially attended James Monroe High School and later transferred to Hollywood High School before briefly enrolling at the Interlochen Center for the Arts. By the early 1970s, Baxter began her on-screen career and set out to become one of television’s most beloved stars.
Meredith Baxter’s Profile
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Meredith Ann Baxter |
| Date of Birth | June 21, 1947 |
| Place of Birth | South Pasadena, CA |
| Age (2024) | 77 years old |
| Profession | Actress, Producer |
| Net Worth (2024) | Estimated $7 million |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (1.70 m) |
| Nationality | American |
| Marital Status | Married to Nancy Locke (since 2013) |
A Stellar Career and Financial Milestones
Early Breakthroughs
Baxter’s career formally began in 1971 with guest-starring roles on series like The Doris Day Show and The Partridge Family. Her big break came a year later with the CBS sitcom Bridget Loves Bernie, where she played Bridget Fitzgerald opposite her future husband, David Birney. The show, though short-lived, made waves by exploring interfaith marriage and introduced her as a rising talent in Hollywood.
By 1976, she landed the role of Nancy Maitland in ABC’s Family, which earned her two Emmy Award nominations. This series solidified her position as a versatile actor capable of tackling complex characters and emotional performances.
The Golden Age – Family Ties and Beyond
Baxter’s monumental success came in 1982 when she joined the cast of Family Ties. Playing the free-spirited yet grounded architect and matriarch Elyse Keaton, she became a staple in American households. The show ran for seven seasons and remains one of her signature roles.
During this period, Baxter’s income saw exponential growth. Her roles in television movies like A Woman Scorned and Kate’s Secret, along with her producing efforts, added significantly to her earnings.
Historical Net Worth Analysis:
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|
| 1980 | $1 million |
| 1990 | $3 million |
| 2000 | $5 million |
| 2010 | $6.5 million |
| 2024 | $7 million |
Television and Film Evolution
Post-Family Ties, Baxter diversified her portfolio with notable roles in TV movies like The Betty Broderick Story and guest spots in shows like Spin City. She also appeared in films such as All the President’s Men (1976) and Paradise Texas (2005). Her producing stints further bolstered her earnings, allowing her to command sizable salaries for her work.
Unpacking Meredith Baxter’s Income Sources
-
Television Acting
Meredith Baxter’s steady stream of work on serialized TV and movies has served as her primary income source. Contractual earnings combined with residual payouts from syndication significantly contribute to her net worth. -
Producing Ventures
Baxter executive-produced several of the TV films she starred in, adding another lucrative layer to her career. -
Commercial Appearances
Between acting roles, endorsements and commercials augmented her financial portfolio. -
Real Estate Investments
Baxter’s sale of her Santa Monica home in 2017 for $4.6 million underscores her strategic investment choices in real estate.
Net Worth Breakdown as of 2024:
| Source | Annual Contribution |
|---|---|
| Television Roles | $1–1.5 million |
| Producing Credits | $500,000 |
| Real Estate Investments | $4.6 million (Santa Monica property) |
| Residual Income | $250,000 annually |
Meredith Baxter’s Assets and Lifestyle
Meredith Baxter leads a comfortable life emphasizing simplicity and meaningful relationships. Known for her advocacy, her personal milestones include marrying Nancy Locke in 2013 and publicly coming out as a lesbian in 2009.
Though not extravagantly luxurious, her homes reflect tasteful elegance. Her former Santa Monica residence is an example of her penchant for desirable real estate in upscale neighborhoods.
Physique and Public Image
| Physical Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (1.70 m) |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Build | Slim and graceful |
Baxter’s timeless charm and approachable beauty make her a relatable celebrity. Her versatility across genres has contributed to her becoming a universally beloved star.
Latest News About Meredith Baxter
At 77, Meredith Baxter remains active in Hollywood and public life. Recent years have seen her guest-starring in projects such as The Young and the Restless. She also continues her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and policy reforms—a testament to her commitment to causes she feels deeply about.
FAQs – All About Meredith Baxter Net Worth
1. What is Meredith Baxter’s net worth in 2024?
Meredith Baxter’s net worth is estimated at $7 million, thanks to her successful TV and movie career combined with producing and real estate ventures.
2. What are Baxter’s primary income sources?
Her earnings come primarily from television acting, producing films, commercial appearances, and real estate investments.
3. Is Meredith Baxter still acting?
Yes, she remains active in the entertainment industry, making special appearances and starring in select projects.
4. How does real estate factor into her net worth?
Baxter has made strategic investments in properties, such as her $4.6 million Santa Monica home, which added millions to her total wealth.
5. What legacy does Meredith Baxter leave?
A groundbreaking actress of her generation, Meredith Baxter’s career signifies resilience, versatility, and a commitment to representation on and off-screen.
Meredith Baxter – A Life Well-Lived and On Her Terms
From her acclaimed performances on Family and Family Ties to her transition into producing and activism, Meredith Baxter exemplifies a multi-faceted talent. Her $7 million net worth symbolizes a blend of dedication, hard work, and smart career moves. Inspiring audiences worldwide, her legacy endures as a powerful example of both personal and professional growth.
Meredith Baxter Net Worth and Career Journey | Beloved TV Icon.