Milburn Stone Net Worth: Career, Earnings & Bio
Milburn Stone, renowned for his portrayal of "Doc" (Dr. Galen Adams) on the legendary Western series Gunsmoke, had an estimated net worth of $600,000 at the time of his death in 1980. Adjusted for inflation, this would equate to several million dollars today. His wealth was primarily derived from his iconic role on Gunsmoke, which remains one of the most celebrated television series in history.
Early Life and Background
- Full Name: Hugh Milburn Stone
- Date of Birth: July 5, 1904
- Place of Birth: Burrton, Kansas, USA
- Nationality: American
- Religion: Christian
Milburn Stone was born in the small town of Burrton, Kansas, and displayed an early interest in acting. He attended local schools before venturing into regional theater productions, which set the foundation for his eventual Hollywood career.
Career Highlights and Sources of Income
Milburn Stone’s acting career spanned over four decades, during which he showcased his versatility across various genres. However, his most defining role came in Gunsmoke, solidifying his place in television history.
- Early Film Career:
- Stone made his debut in Hollywood during the 1930s, appearing in numerous B-movies.
- Notable films included The Master Key (1945) and Prison Mutiny (1943).
- Breakthrough Role in Gunsmoke:
- Stone starred as Dr. Galen "Doc" Adams in Gunsmoke from 1955 to 1975.
- He appeared in over 600 episodes, making him a household name in America.
- At the peak of his career, Stone earned approximately $5,000 per episode, which significantly contributed to his net worth.
- Residual Income:
- Reruns of Gunsmoke continued to provide residual income, ensuring financial stability well beyond the show's end.
Personal Life and Physical Attributes
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: Around 165 lbs (75 kg)
- Eye Color: Blue
- Hair Color: Dark Brown
- Shoe Size: 10 (US)
Spouse:
- Jane Garrison (married 1939–1947)
- Jane Stone (married 1947–1980)
Children: Although Milburn Stone did not have biological children, he was known to maintain close relationships with his extended family and friends.
Hobbies and Interests: Beyond acting, Stone was an accomplished painter and often spent time creating landscape art.
Financial Breakdown
- Monthly Income: $10,000 (estimated during his Gunsmoke years)
- Annual Income: Approximately $120,000
- Primary Source of Income: Acting (television and films)
Despite his significant earnings, Stone was known for leading a relatively modest lifestyle, focusing on investments and artistic pursuits.
Milburn Stone Vs. Other Western Stars
| Actor | Net Worth at Death |
|---|---|
| Milburn Stone | $600,000 |
| James Arness (Gunsmoke) | $8 Million |
| Amanda Blake (Gunsmoke) | $500,000 |
Although Milburn Stone’s net worth was modest compared to some of his contemporaries, his legacy as "Doc" remains unparalleled.
Fun Facts About Milburn Stone
- He won an Emmy Award in 1968 for his performance in Gunsmoke.
- Stone’s uncle, Fred Stone, was a renowned vaudeville performer, inspiring Milburn’s foray into acting.
- A theater in his hometown of Burrton, Kansas, is named in his honor.
- He was close friends with Gunsmoke co-stars James Arness and Amanda Blake.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Milburn Stone’s portrayal of Doc Adams on Gunsmoke remains one of television’s most beloved characters. His dedication to the role and ability to bring depth and authenticity to his performances ensured the show's enduring popularity. Even decades after his passing, fans continue to celebrate his contributions to Western television.
