Tab Hunter Net Worth

Tab Hunter was a Hollywood icon known for his successful career in film, music, and television. At the time of his passing in 2018, Tab Hunter Net Worth was estimated at $10 million, earned through blockbuster films like Damn Yankees, hit songs such as Young Love, and bestselling books. Beyond his career, Hunter was a trailblazer in the LGBTQ+ community, leaving behind a lasting legacy in entertainment and advocacy.

Introduction

Tab Hunter was one of Hollywood’s biggest stars in the 1950s and 1960s, known for his striking good looks, acting talent, and chart-topping music career. But how much was Tab Hunter worth when he passed away? What were his biggest money-making ventures?

With a career spanning decades, Hunter built a legacy not just in movies but also in music, television, and writing. His estimated net worth at the time of his death in 2018 was $10 million, earned through film roles, hit songs, and smart business moves.

Who Was Tab Hunter? (Early Life & Background)

Tab Hunter was born Arthur Andrew Kelm on July 11, 1931, in New York City. His father, Charles Kelm, was Jewish, while his mother, Gertrude Gelien, was a German Catholic immigrant. After his parents divorced, young Arthur and his brother Walter were raised by their mother in California.

From an early age, Hunter had a passion for sports, especially figure skating and horseback riding. However, he left school at 15 and lied about his age to join the U.S. Coast Guard. When the truth was discovered, he was discharged and had to rethink his future.

That’s when Hollywood came calling.

Hollywood Stardom: Tab Hunter’s Acting Career

Breakthrough in the 1950s & 1960s

Hunter’s entry into Hollywood was thanks to agent Henry Willson, the same talent scout who discovered Rock Hudson. Willson gave him the stage name Tab Hunter, and soon, he landed his first role in The Lawless (1950).

His breakthrough came with Warner Bros., where he starred in hit films like:

• Battle Cry (1955)
• The Girl He Left Behind (1956)
• Damn Yankees (1958)
• Gunman’s Walk (1958)

With his blond hair, blue eyes, and “boy next door” charm, Hunter became a heartthrob. But his talent extended beyond just good looks—he was a genuine actor who held his own alongside Hollywood legends.

Transition to Television & Later Film Roles

By the 1960s, Hunter’s film career slowed, but he remained active in television, starring in:

• The Tab Hunter Show (1960)
• Guest roles in Hawaii Five-O, The Virginian, The Fall Guy, Charlie’s Angels

In the 1980s, he made a comeback in cult classics like:

• Polyester (1981), directed by John Waters
• Lust in the Dust (1984), opposite Divine
• Grease 2 (1982)

Music Career: Tab Hunter as a Chart-Topping Singer

Hunter was not just an actor—he was a music star too.

His biggest hit, Young Love (1957), topped the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks. This song, along with other singles like Ninety-Nine Ways and Red Sails in the Sunset, made him a household name.

Hunter’s success in music helped boost his earnings and maintain his star power even when his film career slowed down.

Tab Hunter’s Business Ventures & Wealth Sources

Aside from acting and singing, Tab Hunter expanded his wealth through:

• Book Sales: His memoir Tab Hunter Confidential: The Making of a Movie Star became a bestseller in 2005.
• Film Production: He co-produced the 2015 documentary Tab Hunter Confidential.
• Real Estate: He owned property in Santa Barbara, California, where he lived until his passing.

Hunter was smart with his money, ensuring he stayed financially stable throughout his life.

While Tab Hunter made a lasting impact in Hollywood with his charm and talent, another notable actor with a unique career in film and television is Brad Dourif Net Worth, known for his unforgettable roles in both mainstream and cult classics.

Tab Hunter Net Worth at the Time of His Death

When Tab Hunter passed away on July 8, 2018, he had an estimated net worth of $10 million.

How Did He Earn His Fortune?

His wealth came from:

Acting in over 40 films

His chart-topping music career

Television appearances & guest roles

Book sales & documentary production

Real estate investments

Even decades after his peak, royalties from films and music continued to generate income.

Personal Life: Relationships, Marriage & LGBTQ+ Advocacy

For most of his career, Hunter kept his personal life private. Hollywood was not accepting of LGBTQ+ actors in the 1950s, and he had to hide his relationships.

Who Was Tab Hunter’s Partner?

Hunter had a secret relationship with actor Anthony Perkins, known for Psycho (1960). Later, he dated figure skater Ronnie Robertson.

In 2013, he married film producer Allan Glaser, with whom he shared over three decades of love and partnership.

Coming Out & LGBTQ+ Legacy

In 2005, Hunter publicly came out in his memoir Tab Hunter Confidential, helping break barriers for LGBTQ+ actors in Hollywood. His story inspired many, and he remains an icon in the community.

How Did Tab Hunter Spend His Wealth?

1. Luxury Lifestyle & Real Estate

Hunter lived a comfortable life in Santa Barbara, California, enjoying the ocean views and privacy.

2. Passion for Horses

One of his biggest passions was horse breeding and equestrian sports. He owned a ranch, where he raised and trained horses.

3. Philanthropy & Charitable Contributions

Hunter supported LGBTQ+ organizations and helped upcoming actors navigate Hollywood. His legacy extended beyond wealth—he made a difference.

Legacy & Influence in Hollywood

Even after his passing, Tab Hunter’s impact remains strong:

His films and music continue to be celebrated

His memoir and documentary inspire new generations

He helped pave the way for LGBTQ+ representation in Hollywood

Today, he is remembered as a true Hollywood legend.

FAQs About Tab Hunter’s Net Worth & Life

Conclusion: Tab Hunter’s Enduring Legacy

Tab Hunter wasn’t just a handsome heartthrob—he was a multi-talented artist with a lasting impact. From his movies and music to his business ventures and LGBTQ+ advocacy, he built a legacy worth remembering.

Even with Hollywood’s challenges, he managed his career and wealth wisely, leaving behind $10 million and a name that will never be forgotten.

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