What is Harry Belafonte Net Worth 2024: Financial Journey, Earnings, and Success Factors

What is Harry Belafonte Net Worth 2024 Financial Journey, Earnings, and Success Factors

Explore Harry Belafonte net worth and the financial landscape that shaped his career. From his earnings as a celebrated artist to his strategic investments and charitable contributions, this overview captures the essence of Belafonte’s economic impact. Join us as we uncover the fiscal side of a cultural icon.

Quick Facts

FACTDETAIL
Real NameHarold George Bellanfanti Jr.
Popular NameHarry Belafonte
GenderMale
Birth DateMarch 1, 1927 – April 25, 2023
Age96 years
ParentsHarold Sr. and Melvine Bellanfanti
SiblingsN/A
BirthplaceHarlem, New York, United States
NationalityUnited States of America
EthnicityJamaican
EducationThe New School, George Washington Educational Campus, Wolmer’s Schools
Marital StatusMarried
Sexual OrientationStraight
Wife/Spouse Pamela Frank (m. 2008–2023), Julie Robinson (m. 1957–2004), Marguerite Belafonte (m. 1948–1957)
ChildrenShari, David, Gina, Adrienne
DatingN/A
Net Worth$30 million
GenresCalypso, mento, pop, folk, world
Years Active1948–2023
Source of WealthMusic, Acting, Activism
Height5 ft 11 in (1.82 m)

What is the Net Worth Of Harry Belafonte in 2024?

What is the Net Worth of Harry Belafonte 2024

Harry Belafonte had a net worth of $30 million at the time of his death. His wealth accumulated through a multifaceted career in music, film, and activism. Let’s compare Belafonte’s career with other significant figures:

Belafonte’s impact on the entertainment industry and his activism contributed significantly to his financial success, making him one of the top-earning pop stars of his time.

Harry Belafonte Finance Overview

Harry Belafonte's Finance Overview

Early Life and Background

Harry Belafonte was born Harold George Bellanfanti Jr. on March 1, 1927, in Harlem, New York City. His parents, Harold Sr. and Melvine Bellanfanti, were Jamaican immigrants.

Belafonte’s early years were spent between New York and Jamaica, shaping his cultural influences. He attended George Washington High School and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. His passion for the performing arts ignited after attending the American Negro Theater.

Rise to Fame and Career Breakthrough

Belafonte’s career began as a club singer in New York, performing to pay for acting classes. His breakthrough came with the 1956 album Calypso, which featured hits like Day-O (Banana Boat Song) and Jamaica Farewell. The album was the first to sell over a million copies within a year, catapulting him to international fame.

Music Career and Earnings

In the 1950s and 1960s, Belafonte’s music career soared. He signed with RCA Victor, releasing numerous successful albums. His performances were highly sought after, making him the highest-paid Black performer during that era.

Belafonte also ventured into various music genres, including blues, folk, gospel, and show tunes. His collaboration with South African singer Miriam Makeba on the album An Evening with Belafonte/Makeba won a Grammy Award.

Film Career and Contributions

Belafonte made his acting debut in the 1953 film Bright Road, co-starring Dorothy Dandridge. They reunited for Carmen Jones in 1954.

His other notable films include Island in the Sun and Odds Against Tomorrow. In later years, Belafonte appeared in BlacKkKlansman and other significant films, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Awards and Recognitions

Throughout his career, Belafonte received numerous accolades. He won three Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award.

He also earned an Emmy for Revlon Revue: Tonight with Belafonte and a Tony Award for John Murray Anderson’s Almanac. His contributions to the arts were recognized with the Kennedy Center Honors and the National Medal of Arts.

Philanthropy and Activism

Belafonte was deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement, working closely with Martin Luther King Jr. He financed the 1961 Freedom Rides and helped organize the March on Washington in 1963. His activism extended to the Anti-Apartheid Movement in South Africa.

As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Belafonte supported numerous humanitarian causes, focusing on child poverty and HIV/AIDS awareness.

Real Estate Investments

Belafonte’s real estate ventures included the acquisition and conversion of a building on West End Avenue in Manhattan into a co-op. This building became a hub for civil rights activities, hosting notable figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and John F. Kennedy.

Additionally, Belafonte owned a property in the Caribbean, which he sold in 2005.

FAQs about Harry Belafonte

FAQs about Harry Belafonte

What are Harry Belafonte’s most famous songs?

Harry Belafonte’s most famous songs include Day-O (The Banana Boat Song), Jamaica Farewell, Jump in the Line (Shake, Senora), and Mary’s Boy Child. These hits popularized calypso music worldwide.

How did he contribute to the civil rights movement?

Belafonte supported Martin Luther King Jr. with financial aid, organized fundraisers, and participated in key protests and marches.

What awards did he receive?

Belafonte won three Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, a Tony Award, the Kennedy Center Honors, the National Medal of Arts, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.

How did Calypso make history?

Belafonte’s 1956 album Calypso was the first LP by a single artist to sell over a million copies, introducing calypso music to American audiences.

What was his role in film?

Belafonte starred in films like Carmen Jones, Island in the Sun, Odds Against Tomorrow, and BlacKkKlansman. He also produced and scored the musical film Beat Street.

How did his early life influence his career?

Born to Jamaican parents in Harlem, Belafonte’s time in Jamaica and service in the U.S. Navy during WWII shaped his artistic and activist paths.

What genres did he perform?

Belafonte performed in various genres, including calypso, blues, folk, gospel, show tunes, and American standards.

Conclusion

Harry Belafonte’s financial narrative is as compelling as his music. Have thoughts on his philanthropy or career earnings? Share your views in the comments, engage with us on social media, or explore more at rachelparris.com. Your insights enrich our community! Thank you for reading.