Rosemary Clooney was an American singer and actress who had a net worth of $10 million at the time of her death in 2002. That is equivalent to roughly $18 million today after adjusting for inflation.
Rosemary Clooney rose to fame in the 1950s as one of the most popular vocalists of her era, becoming known for timeless hits such as “Come On-a My House,” “Mambo Italiano,” “Half as Much,” “This Ole House,” and “Hey There.” Her warm voice and effortless style helped define the early pop and traditional jazz sound of the decade.
- Rosemary Clooney Net Worth: $10 Million
- Date of Birth: May 23, 1928
- Place of Birth: Maysville, Kentucky
Beyond music, Clooney also built a successful film and television career. She appeared in musical films including “The Stars Are Singing,” “Red Garters,” and the holiday classic “White Christmas.” Her work on television variety shows and guest appearances later in life earned her renewed recognition and multiple Emmy nominations.
Even after her peak commercial success in the 1950s, Clooney remained active in music for decades, recording extensively in jazz and big band styles. She continued performing and releasing albums well into the 1990s, maintaining a loyal fan base and critical respect throughout her career.
Rosemary Clooney passed away on June 29, 2002, at the age of 74 following a battle with lung cancer. By then, she had established a lasting legacy as one of America’s most beloved traditional pop singers.
Early Life
Rosemary Clooney was born on May 23, 1928, in Maysville, Kentucky, into a family of five children. She grew up singing alongside her sister Betty, and the pair began performing together on local radio in Cincinnati in the mid-1940s. Their early exposure helped launch Rosemary’s path into professional music.
Rise to Fame in Music
Clooney signed with Columbia Records in the late 1940s, initially recording with big band leader Tony Pastor before launching her solo career. Her major breakthrough came in 1951 with “Come On-a My House,” a surprise hit that turned her into a national star.
She followed with a string of successful recordings, including “Half as Much” and “Mambo Italiano,” both of which became international hits. By the mid-1950s, Clooney was one of the most recognizable female vocalists in the United States.
Although her chart dominance slowed after the late 1950s, she continued recording for multiple labels over the following decades, including RCA Victor, Reprise, Dot, and Concord Records. Her later work leaned heavily into jazz and standards, earning her critical acclaim and long-term artistic respect.
Film
Clooney made her film debut in the early 1950s, appearing in musical productions such as “The Stars Are Singing” (1953) and “White Christmas” (1954), the latter becoming one of her most enduring screen appearances.
On television, she hosted her own variety show, “The Rosemary Clooney Show,” and frequently appeared alongside major entertainers of the era. Later in her career, she made guest appearances in shows such as “ER” and “LateLine,” earning renewed attention from younger audiences and an Emmy nomination for her role on “ER.”
Personal Life
Rosemary Clooney married actor José Ferrer in 1953. The couple had five children before divorcing in 1961, later remarrying briefly in 1964 before separating again in 1967.
In later years, she struggled with mental health challenges and prescription drug dependency, which she openly discussed in her autobiography “Girl Singer.” After overcoming those struggles, she experienced a career revival in the 1970s and 1980s.
In 1997, she married longtime friend Dante DiPaolo, who remained with her until her death.
Death
A longtime smoker, Clooney was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2001. Despite treatment and surgery, her condition worsened, and she died on June 29, 2002, at her home in Beverly Hills.
Author: Andrew Walyaula
Andrew Walyaula is a seasoned multimedia journalist. Email: [email protected]
