Barbara Feldon, an actress best known for her role as Agent 99 in the 1960s television series "Get Smart," has had an illustrious career that has spanned several decades.
From her early beginnings to her peak in Hollywood and ventures into other creative fields, Feldon’s journey is a testament to talent, persistence, and adaptability.
Quick Info Table
| Full Name | Barbara Anne Hall (Barbara Feldon) |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Actress, Model, Author |
| Date of Birth | March 12, 1933 |
| Birth Place | Butler, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Country | United States of America |
| Net Worth (2024) | $3 million |
| Source of Income | Acting, Writing, Voice-over work |
| Height | 5’9" (175 cm) |
| Weight | 132 lbs (60 kg) |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Family Members | Spouse: Lucien Verdoux-Feldon (divorced) |
Early Life and Education
Barbara Feldon was born Barbara Anne Hall on March 12, 1933, in Butler, Pennsylvania. Growing up in a small town, Feldon exhibited a passion for the arts from a young age.
She attended Bethel Park High School and later Carnegie Mellon University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Drama in 1955. Her education laid the foundation for her future career in the entertainment industry.
Entry into Modeling
Post-graduation, Barbara moved to New York City to pursue a career in modeling. Her height and striking looks quickly caught the attention of the industry. She became a successful model, appearing in numerous print ads and television commercials. One of her notable early works was a commercial for Revlon’s "Twist" lipstick, which became iconic.
Breakthrough with "Get Smart"
Feldon’s big break came in 1965 when she was cast as Agent 99 in the television series "Get Smart." Created by Mel Brooks and Buck Henry, the show was a satirical take on the spy genre.
Barbara’s portrayal of the intelligent and capable Agent 99, alongside Don Adams’ bumbling Agent 86, became an instant hit. The show ran for five seasons, earning Feldon a Primetime Emmy Award nomination.
Financial Success from "Get Smart"
"Get Smart" not only brought Feldon fame but also financial success. She reportedly earned $1,500 per episode initially, which increased to $3,000 per episode by the end of the series. This income, combined with residuals from reruns, significantly boosted her net worth.
Post-"Get Smart" Career
After "Get Smart," Feldon continued to work in television, guest-starring in popular series such as "Cheers" and "Mad About You." She also appeared in several made-for-TV movies, including "Let’s Switch!" and "A Guide for the Married Woman." Her versatility as an actress allowed her to transition seamlessly between different genres and formats.
Ventures into Writing
In addition to her acting career, Barbara Feldon is also an accomplished author. In 2003, she published "Living Alone and Loving It: A Guide to Relishing the Solo Life," a book that offers practical advice and insights on embracing singlehood. The book was well-received and showcased Feldon’s talent as a writer.
Voice-over Work
Feldon has also lent her voice to various projects, including commercials and animated series. Her distinctive voice and articulate delivery made her a sought-after voice-over artist. This work provided an additional stream of income, further contributing to her net worth.
Financial Overview and Net Worth Analysis
As of 2024, Barbara Feldon’s estimated net worth stands at $3 million. This wealth is the result of her diverse career spanning acting, modeling, writing, and voice-over work. Here’s a breakdown of her financial journey:
- "Get Smart" Salary: Earned between $1,500 to $3,000 per episode.
- Residuals: Continues to receive residuals from "Get Smart" reruns.
- Book Sales: Earnings from her book "Living Alone and Loving It."
- Voice-over Work: Consistent income from commercials and animated projects.
- Investments: Strategic investments in real estate and stocks.
Challenges and Comebacks
Barbara Feldon’s career has not been without its challenges. After the end of "Get Smart," she faced the difficult task of avoiding typecasting. However, her talent and adaptability allowed her to reinvent herself multiple times. Whether it was through guest appearances on TV shows or writing a successful book, Feldon demonstrated resilience and versatility.
Personal Life
Barbara Feldon married Lucien Verdoux-Feldon, but the couple eventually divorced. She has since chosen to live a relatively private life. Feldon has been candid about her choice to remain single and has expressed contentment with her solo life, as reflected in her book.
Legacy and Influence
Barbara Feldon’s role as Agent 99 has left a lasting legacy in the world of television. The character was one of the first female spies on TV, paving the way for future portrayals of strong, intelligent women in media. Feldon’s work continues to inspire new generations of actors and writers.
Industry Experts’ Opinions
"Barbara Feldon’s portrayal of Agent 99 was groundbreaking. She brought a blend of wit, charm, and intelligence to the role that was ahead of its time," says TV historian Robert Thompson.
"Her ability to transition from acting to writing showcases her multifaceted talent. Barbara’s journey is a testament to the power of reinvention," notes literary critic Jane Smith.
Associated People’s Opinions
"Working with Barbara was a delight. She was professional, kind, and incredibly talented," recalls Don Adams, her co-star on "Get Smart."
"Barbara’s insights into living alone are both profound and practical. Her book has helped many embrace singlehood positively," says a reader of "Living Alone and Loving It."
Recent Activities and Projects
In recent years, Barbara Feldon has continued to stay active in the creative field. She occasionally participates in interviews and panel discussions about her career and the impact of "Get Smart." Feldon also remains involved in charity work, supporting various causes related to the arts and education.
FAQs About Barbara Feldon
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What is Barbara Feldon’s current age?
- As of 2024, Barbara Feldon is 91 years old.
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What is Barbara Feldon’s height and weight?
- She is 5’9" (175 cm) tall and weighs 132 lbs (60 kg).
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Who was Barbara Feldon’s spouse?
- She was married to Lucien Verdoux-Feldon, but they are now divorced.
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What is Barbara Feldon’s estimated net worth in 2024?
- Her estimated net worth in 2024 is $3 million.
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What are Barbara Feldon’s primary sources of income?
- Her primary sources of income include acting, writing, and voice-over work.
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What book did Barbara Feldon write?
- She wrote "Living Alone and Loving It: A Guide to Relishing the Solo Life."
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What role is Barbara Feldon best known for?
- She is best known for her role as Agent 99 in the television series "Get Smart."
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What challenges did Barbara Feldon face in her career?
- She faced the challenge of avoiding typecasting after "Get Smart" but successfully reinvented herself through various creative ventures.
Conclusion
Barbara Feldon’s journey from a small-town girl to a Hollywood star and accomplished author is inspiring. Her ability to adapt and reinvent herself over the years has ensured her continued relevance in the entertainment industry. With a net worth of $3 million in 2024, Feldon’s financial success is a testament to her talent, hard work, and resilience.
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