What Was Robert Reed's Net Worth?
At the time of his passing in 1992, American actor Robert Reed had amassed a net worth equivalent to $3 million after adjusting for inflation. With a career that spanned over 100 acting credits, Reed was most prominently recognized for his role as Mike Brady in the iconic television series "The Brady Bunch" from 1969 to 1974.
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Robert Reed's Early Life and Academic Pursuits
Born John Robert Rietz Jr. on October 19, 1932, in Highland Park, Illinois, Reed was the son of high school sweethearts Helen and John Sr. His father’s government job meant Reed’s upbringing was spent across various locales including Navasota, Texas, and Shawnee, Oklahoma. Reed's educational journey took him through several institutions from the West Division School in Illinois to Woodrow Wilson Grade School and eventually Central High School in Muskogee, Oklahoma. During his years there, Reed embraced performing on stage and singing, while also venturing into radio as an announcer, writer, and producer. His academic path led him to Northwestern University, where he thrived in the theatre scene, followed by a brief but formative term at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
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After his studies in London, Reed returned to the USA, where he immersed himself in summer stock theatre in Pennsylvania. Subsequently, he joined the ranks of the Shakespearewrights group and later the Studebaker theatre company in Chicago. Adopting the stage name Robert Reed, he ventured to Los Angeles in the late 1950s to further chase his acting dreams.
Robert Reed's Entry onto Television
1959 marked Reed's television debut, where he guest-starred in "Father Knows Best" and "Make Room for Daddy," among others. His early roles included appearances in "Men into Space" and "Bronco." His breakthrough came with the CBS courtroom drama "The Defenders" (1961-1965), where he played Kenneth Preston. Reed's television presence grew with roles in "Dr. Kildare" and guest appearances across a variety of shows. Starting in 1968, he portrayed Lieutenant Adam Tobias in "Mannix," which continued until 1975.
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In 1969, Reed began his most iconic portrayal as patriarch Mike Brady in the ABC sitcom "The Brady Bunch." His co-star Florence Henderson played his on-screen wife, Carol Brady. Despite personal dissatisfaction with his character, Reed's performance left an indelible mark on the show's legacy. Controversially, Reed's disagreements with the production staff nearly led to his replacement. However, the series was canceled before this could take place. Reed reprised his role in related specials and series, such as "The Brady Girls Get Married," "A Very Brady Christmas," and "The Bradys."
Reed's Continued Television Success
Amidst "The Brady Bunch," Reed starred in television movies and maintained a vigorous appearance schedule on various shows. Post-"The Brady Bunch," his performance as a transgender doctor in "Medical Center" earned him an Emmy nod. Reed's Emmy-nominated role in "Rich Man, Poor Man" and his portrayal in "Roots" further solidified his status as an esteemed actor. His later career included roles in "The Love Boat," "Vega$," and "Fantasy Island," continuing into the early '80s with miniseries like "Scruples" and series such as "Nurse."
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Alongside television, Reed's film appearances, though fewer, included "Bloodlust!," "Hurry Sundown," and the musical "Star!," sharing screen time with stars like Jane Fonda and Michael Caine. His final movie performances included "The Maltese Bippy" and "Prime Target."
Reed's Personal Life and Legacy
Privately, Reed was a gay man, a truth he concealed to protect his career. He was married to Marilyn Rosenberger in 1954 and had a daughter but divorced in 1959. His battle with colon cancer ended in May 1992 in Pasadena, California. His death was initially attributed to cancer, but later disclosures revealed he was also HIV-positive.
Discover the Surprising Fortune of Maurice Benard: How Much Is the Soap Opera Legend Really Worth?All net worths are calculated using data drawn from public sources. When provided, we also incorporate private tips and feedback received from the celebrities or their representatives. While we work diligently to ensure that our numbers are as accurate as possible, unless otherwise indicated they are only estimates. We welcome all corrections and feedback using the button below.
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