Film legend Charlie Chaplin left behind a secret fortune. His wife Oona inherited at least $100 million in 1977. That sum equals over $533 million in today’s money.
Chaplin’s wealth came from his iconic film career. He was one of the highest-paid stars of his era. According to Reuters, he also took extreme measures to protect his money.
From Poverty To Unimaginable Wealth
Charlie Chaplin was born into poverty in London in 1889. His childhood was marked by hardship and instability. He began performing on stage to support himself as a teenager.
His big break came in 1914 with his film debut. The “Tramp” character became a global sensation. Chaplin quickly began commanding record-breaking salaries for his work.
He signed a contract for $1 million for eight films in 1918. In 1919, he co-founded United Artists studio. This move gave him full creative and financial control over his projects.
A Secret Fortune And A Daring Plan
Chaplin’s success made him one of the world’s wealthiest entertainers. But his later years were filled with controversy. He faced political persecution during the McCarthy era.
In 1952, U.S. authorities denied him re-entry. They demanded he answer questions about his political views. Chaplin decided to exile himself to Switzerland instead.
Fearing his assets would be frozen, he devised a plan. He buried a portion of his cash in his Beverly Hills backyard. He also added his wife Oona as a cosigner to his U.S. bank accounts.
Oona Chaplin later returned to America alone. She dug up the buried cash and converted it into large bills. She then sewed the money into the lining of her coat to smuggle it to Switzerland.
Chaplin’s financial legacy remains staggering. His shrewd business moves and dramatic wealth preservation secured his family’s future for generations.
A quick knowledge drop for you
How much was Charlie Chaplin worth?
At his death in 1977, Chaplin left an estate worth at least $100 million. Adjusted for inflation, that equals over $533 million in today’s dollars. His peak wealth in the 1920s was even greater.
Why did Chaplin bury his money?
He feared the U.S. government would freeze his assets during his political exile. Burying cash was a way to hide and protect a portion of his immense wealth from seizure.
Who inherited Chaplin’s fortune?
His wife, Oona O’Neill Chaplin, was the primary heir. She inherited the entire estate, which included film rights, property, and investments spread across several countries.
How did Oona get the money to Switzerland?
She sewed the converted $1,000 bills into the lining of her mink coat. This allowed her to physically carry the cash out of the United States without detection.
Was Chaplin allowed back in the U.S.?
Yes, but not until 1972. He returned to receive an honorary Academy Award. The audience gave him a standing ovation that lasted a full 12 minutes.
Sources: Associated Press, Reuters, BBC, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times
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