Curious about Ola Ray net worth? Dive into her fascinating financial journey with RachelParris. From her early life to her breakthrough in Michael Jackson’s Thriller, and through her various acting roles and endorsements, discover how she built her wealth.
Contents
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
| Real Name | Ola Ray |
| Popular Name | Ola Ray |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | August 26, 1960 |
| Age | 63 |
| Parents | Ruth Moore |
| Siblings | 6 brothers, 2 sisters |
| Birthplace | St. Louis, Missouri |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Education | N/A |
| Marital Status | N/A |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Husband/Spouse | N/A |
| Children | Iam Clark |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $500,000 |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Modeling |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (1.65 m) |
What is the Net Worth Of Ola Ray in 2024?
As of 2024, Ola Ray’s net worth is estimated to be $500,000. This figure reflects her career in modeling, acting, and endorsements. Let’s compare it with some related figures:
- Michael Jackson
- Eddie Murphy
- George Benson
- John Landis
- Catherine Zeta-Jones
Ola Ray Finance Overview
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Ola Ray was born on August 26, 1960, in St. Louis, Missouri. She grew up with her six brothers and two sisters. After her parents’ divorce, Ray moved to Tokyo, Japan, where she formed a song and dance group, The Puppets.
This group performed across Japan, earning significant popularity and even securing a recording deal with CBS Records.
During her time in Japan, Ray also ventured into modeling, working with prominent agencies and appearing in commercials for major brands like Isetan, Matsuya, and Parco.
Rise to Fame with Playboy
In 1978, after three years in Japan, she returned to the United States, moving to Los Angeles to pursue a modeling and entertainment career. Her big break came in 1980 when she became the Playboy Playmate of the Month for June.
This exposure significantly boosted her career, leading to endorsement deals with companies such as Johnson and Johnson, Coca-Cola, and Coors. These deals not only increased her visibility but also contributed substantially to her net worth.
Breakthrough Role in Michael Jackson’s Thriller
Her most famous role came in 1983 when she starred as Michael Jackson’s girlfriend in the Thriller music video. This role catapulted her to international fame, as Thriller became one of the most iconic music videos of all time.
Directed by John Landis, the video showcased Ray’s talent and brought her significant attention in the entertainment industry.
Acting Career in the 1980s
Following her success in Thriller, she appeared in several notable films throughout the 1980s. These included Body and Soul (1981), Night Shift (1982), 48 Hrs. (1982), 10 to Midnight (1983), and The Man Who Loved Women (1983).
Additionally, she had roles in Fear City (1984), The Night Stalker (1987), and Beverly Hills Cop II (1987).
Her television appearances included popular shows like Automan, Gimme a Break!, Cheers, and What’s Happening Now!.
Royalties Dispute and Legal Settlements
Despite her early success, she faced financial challenges, particularly regarding royalties from the Thriller music video.
Initially, she struggled to collect the royalties she was promised, leading to legal action against Michael Jackson in May 2009.
Following Jackson’s death in June 2009, Ray continued her legal battle, eventually reaching a settlement with the Jackson estate in 2012 for $75,000.
Later Career and Recent Projects
In the years following her settlement, Ola Ray’s presence in the entertainment industry diminished. However, she made occasional appearances on shows like Where Are They Now? and I Love the 80s.
More recently, Ray returned to the big screen with roles in the films It Wants Blood! (2019) and Shooting Heroin (2020). These projects contributed to her net worth, albeit modestly.
Endorsements and Advertisements
Throughout her career, she secured several lucrative endorsement deals. Her association with major brands like Johnson and Johnson, Coca-Cola, and Coors provided her with substantial income streams.
These endorsements were pivotal in maintaining her financial stability, especially during periods when acting opportunities were scarce.
Personal Life and Memoir
In her personal life, she welcomed a daughter, Iam, in 1995. In June 2022, she published her memoir, The Thrill of It All, which detailed her upbringing, career highlights, and the challenges she faced in the spotlight.
This memoir offered fans a candid look at her life and added another revenue stream to her portfolio.
FAQs about Ola Ray
What is Ola Ray Famous For?
She is best known for her role as Michael Jackson’s girlfriend in the Thriller music video.
What Was Ola Ray’s Role in Playboy?
She was the Playboy Playmate of the Month for June 1980.
Did Ola Ray Sue Michael Jackson?
Yes, she sued Michael Jackson in 2009 over unpaid royalties from the Thriller music video.
What Films Did She Appear In?
She appeared in films like Body and Soul, Night Shift, 48 Hrs., 10 to Midnight, The Man Who Loved Women, Fear City, The Night Stalker, and Beverly Hills Cop II.
What TV Shows Did she Appear In?
She appeared in TV shows like Automan, Gimme a Break!, Cheers, and What’s Happening Now!
Who Did Ola Ray Endorse?
She endorsed brands like Johnson and Johnson, Coca-Cola, and Coors.
Does Ola Ray Have Children?
Yes, she has a daughter named Iam, born in 1995.
Has She Written a Book?
Yes, she published a memoir titled The Thrill of It All in June 2022.
Conclusion
In conclusion,Ola Ray’s net worth reflects her diverse career and financial journey. Discover more about this richest musical film actress at rachelparris.com. Share your thoughts, leave a comment, or read more content on our website.
