L.Q. Jones Net Worth

A portrait of L.Q. Jones, the Hollywood actor and director known for his roles in Western films.

L.Q. Jones was a Hollywood icon known for his roles in Western films and collaborations with Sam Peckinpah. With a career spanning six decades and over 160 movies and TV shows, he built an estimated $2 million net worth through acting, directing, and real estate investments. From his early life in Texas to his lasting legacy in Hollywood, Jones’ contributions continue to inspire Western film enthusiasts worldwide.

Introduction

L.Q. Jones was a legendary Hollywood actor and director, best known for his roles in Western films and collaborations with famous filmmaker Sam Peckinpah. With a career spanning over six decades, he appeared in more than 160 movies and TV shows, leaving an unforgettable mark on the entertainment industry.

But how much was L.Q. Jones Net Worth, and how did he build his fortune? In this blog, we’ll explore his early life, career highlights, earnings, personal life, and lasting legacy.

Let’s dive in!

Who Was L.Q. Jones? (Biography & Early Life)

Early Life and Education

L.Q. Jones was born Justus Ellis McQueen Jr. on August 19, 1927, in Beaumont, Texas. His parents, Jessie Paralee and Justus Ellis McQueen Sr., raised him in a hardworking environment. Tragically, he lost his mother in a car accident at a young age, and relatives took care of him.

He graduated from Port Neches–Groves High School in 1945 and later served in the U.S. Navy (1945-1946). After his service, he attended the University of Texas at Austin, studying law, business, and journalism.

How Justus McQueen Became L.Q. Jones

While struggling to find his path, Jones worked as a stand-up comedian, football player, baseball player, and even a rancher in Nicaragua. However, his life took a dramatic turn when his college roommate, Fess Parker (known for playing Daniel Boone), encouraged him to move to Hollywood.

Jones landed his first film role in Battle Cry (1955), where he played a soldier named L.Q. Jones. He liked the name so much that he adopted it as his professional stage name.

Career Highlights: Actor, Director, and Hollywood Icon

Breaking into Hollywood

After his debut in Battle Cry, L.Q. Jones quickly became a familiar face in Hollywood. His rugged looks and Southern charm made him a perfect fit for Western and action films.

Notable Movies & TV Shows

Jones was best known for appearing in Sam Peckinpah’s Westerns, often playing tough, no-nonsense characters. Some of his most famous roles include:

  • Ride the High Country (1962)
  • Major Dundee (1965)
  • The Wild Bunch (1969) (played T.C., a bounty hunter)
  • Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid (1973)
  • The Virginian (1963-1971) (played Belden, his longest-running TV role)
  • Casino (1995) (played Pat Webb in the Martin Scorsese classic)
  • The Mask of Zorro (1998)
  • A Prairie Home Companion (2006)

Jones worked alongside Hollywood legends such as Clint Eastwood, Charles Bronson, and James Stewart, making him one of the most recognized character actors of his time.

L.Q. Jones as a Director

Beyond acting, Jones ventured into directing and producing. He co-founded LQ/JAF Productions with fellow actor Alvy Moore. Together, they produced several films, including:

  • The Devil’s Bedroom (1964)
  • The Witchmaker (1969)
  • The Brotherhood of Satan (1971)
  • A Boy and His Dog (1975) – His most famous work, which won a Hugo Award and became a cult classic.

Despite his success as a director, Jones preferred acting and turned down many offers to direct big-budget films.

L.Q. Jones made a lasting impact in Hollywood with his work in Western films, much like Tab Hunter Net Worth, which explores the financial legacy of another iconic actor from the golden age of cinema.

L.Q. Jones Net Worth Breakdown

How Did L.Q. Jones Earn His Fortune?

Throughout his six-decade career, Jones earned his wealth through:

  1. Movie Salaries – Acted in over 160 films and TV shows
  2. TV Royalties – Long-term roles in hit series like The Virginian
  3. Directorial Projects – Revenue from A Boy and His Dog
  4. Real Estate Investments – Owned properties in Hollywood Hills

Estimated Net Worth at the Time of His Death

  • Various sources estimate that L.Q. Jones had a net worth of $2 million at the time of his death.
  • Some reports suggest his wealth may have been between $3 million – $5 million, considering his property investments and business ventures.

Personal Life: Family, Wife, and Children

Marriage and Children

Jones married his high school sweetheart, Neta Lewis, in 1950, but they divorced in 1973. The couple had three children:

  1. Stephen Jones
  2. Marilyn Jones
  3. Marlin Jones

Unlike many Hollywood stars, Jones lived a private, low-profile life, staying away from controversies.

L.Q. Jones’ Death & Legacy

Cause of Death

On July 9, 2022, L.Q. Jones passed away at 94 years old from natural causes at his Hollywood Hills home.

Hollywood’s Tribute & Legacy

  • Jones was remembered as one of Hollywood’s finest Western actors.
  • His work in films and TV shows inspired future generations of actors and filmmakers.
  • Even after his passing, his movies continue to be popular among Western fans.

Key Lessons from L.Q. Jones’ Success

Be Patient for the Right Opportunity – He explored multiple careers before finding success in Hollywood.

Seize the Moment – His move to Hollywood after Fess Parker’s encouragement changed his life forever.

Hard Work Pays Off – He appeared in multiple projects every year, securing his place as a Hollywood legend.

Build Strong Relationships – His friendships with industry legends led to incredible career opportunities.

Conclusion

L.Q. Jones was more than just an actor – he was a Hollywood icon with a remarkable career in film and television. His estimated $2 million net worth reflects a lifetime of dedication to his craft.

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