Viola Davis, a celebrated American actress, boasts an impressive net worth of $25 million. Recognized for her powerful performances on stage and screen, Davis began her career in theater and gradually transitioned into film and television. On February 5, 2023, she achieved EGOT status by winning a Grammy Award for the audiobook of her memoir. This accomplishment added to her earlier wins, including an Academy Award for her performance in the 2017 film Fences, an Emmy Award in 2015 for How to Get Away with Murder, and Tony Awards for her roles in King Hedley II (2001) and Fences (2010). Beyond acting, Davis is also a producer and a passionate advocate for social causes, particularly combating child hunger. Between September 2019 and September 2020, she earned approximately $15 million, solidifying her position as one of the highest-paid actresses globally.
Wiki
Category
Details
Full Name
Viola Davis
viola davis net worth
$25 million
Date of Birth
August 11, 1965
Place of Birth
St. Matthews, South Carolina, USA
Career Start
1996 (The Substance of Fire)
Awards
EGOT (Grammy, Academy Award, Emmy, Tony)
Notable Roles
– Fences (2017)- How to Get Away with Murder (2015)- The Help (2011)- Widows (2018)
Academy Award
Best Supporting Actress for Fences (2017)
Emmy Award
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for How to Get Away with Murder (2015)
Tony Awards
– King Hedley II (2001)- Fences (2010)
Grammy Award
Best Spoken Word Album for her memoir audiobook (2023)
Early Life
Born in poverty in South Carolina, raised in Rhode Island, youngest of six siblings, inspired by her mother’s civil rights work
Education
Rhode Island College (Theater major), Juilliard School (acting training)
Career Highlights
– Broadway debut in King Hedley II (2001)- Breakthrough with Doubt (2008)- The Help (2011)- Fences
Television Success
How to Get Away with Murder (2014–2020)
Advocacy
Advocate for social causes, including child hunger, poverty, systemic racism, and gender equality
Production Company
JuVee Productions (co-founded with husband Julius Tennon)
Personal Life
Married to actor Julius Tennon in 2002, one daughter adopted in 2011
Real Estate
– Toluca Lake estate (2016, $5.7 million)- Sold Granada Hills property (2005-2016)
Legacy
Known for her advocacy, powerful performances, and commitment to diversity and inclusion in Hollywood
Influence
Role model for aspiring actors and social advocates; continues to challenge herself creatively
Viola Davis Net Worth
Viola Davis has an impressive net worth of $25 million, earned through her successful career as an actress, producer, and advocate. Over the years, she has built a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most talented and versatile performers, known for her powerful roles in both film and television. Davis’ wealth has been significantly boosted by her groundbreaking achievements, including her EGOT status (winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award), which solidified her place among the most accomplished entertainers in the world. Between September 2019 and September 2020 alone, she earned around $15 million, making her one of the highest-paid actresses globally. Her career continues to thrive, with ongoing work in both acting and production, contributing to her growing financial success.
Early Life
Born on August 11, 1965, in St. Matthews, South Carolina, Viola Davis spent her early months on a farm before her family relocated to Rhode Island. The youngest of six siblings, Davis experienced a challenging childhood marked by poverty. Her father worked as a horse trainer, while her mother was a maid and an activist involved in the Civil Rights Movement. Despite these hardships, Davis discovered her passion for acting during high school, participating in arts programs and setting her sights on an acting career. She later graduated from Rhode Island College with a major in theater and honed her craft at the prestigious Juilliard School.
Viola’s formative years were shaped by the strong influence of her mother, who instilled in her a sense of resilience and advocacy. Her mother’s work in the Civil Rights Movement exposed Davis to the importance of fighting for justice and equality, values that would later inform her roles as an activist and artist. Davis often recounts her early struggles with finding opportunities to express her creative talents while navigating systemic barriers, but these challenges only strengthened her resolve.
Career Highlights
Davis’ first professional acting job came in 1996 with a small role in The Substance of Fire. Her breakthrough came with the 2001 Broadway production of King Hedley II, earning her first Tony Award. She continued to shine in the theater world with roles in productions like Intimate Apparel and the 2010 revival of Fences, which earned her a second Tony.
In film, Davis gained recognition with appearances in Traffic, Solaris, and Far From Heaven. Her role in the 2008 movie Doubt earned her critical acclaim despite limited screen time. Other notable performances include her Oscar-nominated role in The Help (2011) and her Emmy-winning portrayal of Annalise Keating in How to Get Away with Murder. She also starred in Blackhat, Suicide Squad, and Widows. In addition to acting, Davis has executive-produced films like Lila & Eve and appeared in documentaries such as Giving Voice (2020).
Davis’ versatility as an actress is evident in her ability to inhabit a wide range of characters, from complex and flawed individuals to inspiring and resilient figures. This depth of talent has made her a sought-after performer in both commercial and independent projects. Films such as Get On Up, where she portrayed James Brown’s mother, and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, a role that earned her widespread praise, demonstrate her commitment to authenticity and emotional depth in her performances.
Her success in television is equally remarkable. As Annalise Keating in How to Get Away with Murder, Davis broke barriers as the first Black woman to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Her portrayal of the fierce and complicated lawyer resonated deeply with audiences, showcasing her ability to tackle challenging and multidimensional roles.
Advocacy and Influence
In addition to her artistic achievements, Viola Davis is a dedicated advocate for social justice and equality. She has used her platform to raise awareness about issues such as poverty, systemic racism, and gender inequality. Through her work with organizations like Hunger Is, Davis has helped to address food insecurity among children, a cause close to her heart due to her own experiences growing up in poverty.
Davis often speaks candidly about the challenges faced by women of color in Hollywood, advocating for greater representation and inclusion both on and off-screen. Her production company, JuVee Productions, co-founded with her husband Julius Tennon, focuses on creating opportunities for underrepresented voices in the entertainment industry. The company has produced a range of projects that highlight diverse stories and perspectives, further cementing Davis’ legacy as a trailblazer.
Personal Life
Viola Davis married actor Julius Tennon in 2002, becoming a stepmother to his two children from a previous marriage. In 2011, the couple adopted a daughter, completing their family. Together, they share a strong bond, both personally and professionally.
Davis frequently credits her husband with being a source of unwavering support throughout her career. Their shared commitment to storytelling and advocacy has made their partnership a cornerstone of her success. The couple often collaborates on projects through JuVee Productions, blending their creative visions to produce meaningful and impactful content.
Real Estate Ventures
In 2016, Davis invested in a luxurious estate in Toluca Lake, California, for $5.7 million. Spanning 7,500 square feet, the property features elegant amenities, including a wine cellar, a private theater, and a stunning outdoor area with a pool and fire pit. Prior to this, Davis sold a Los Angeles property in Granada Hills for $1.15 million, despite purchasing it for $1.7 million in 2005. This move likely reflected her desire to upgrade to a more lavish residence.
The Toluca Lake estate represents more than just a home for Davis and her family; it serves as a testament to her hard-earned success and determination. The property’s design reflects her appreciation for both functionality and luxury, with spaces thoughtfully curated to accommodate family life and entertainment.
FAQs
Q: What is Viola Davis net worth?
A: Viola Davis’ net worth is estimated at $25 million, accumulated from her acting career, producing work, and various endorsement deals.
Q: How did Viola Davis make her fortune?
A: She made her fortune through her critically acclaimed acting career, winning major awards such as an Academy Award, Emmy Award, Grammy Award, and Tony Award. She has also earned substantial income from her production company, JuVee Productions, and acting roles in high-paying films and television shows.
Q: What are Viola Davis’ most famous roles?
A: Some of her most famous roles include playing in Fences (2017), The Help (2011), Widows (2018), and as Annalise Keating in How to Get Away with Murder (2014–2020).
Q: What is JuVee Productions?
A: JuVee Productions is a production company co-founded by Viola Davis and her husband, Julius Tennon, to create and promote projects that tell diverse and underrepresented stories in the entertainment industry.
Q: What social causes does Viola Davis support?
A: Davis is an advocate for social justice, focusing on issues like child hunger, racial equality, gender representation, and poverty alleviation. She has worked with organizations like Hunger Is to combat food insecurity.
Conclusion
Viola Davis is a multifaceted icon whose achievements extend beyond acting to encompass producing, advocacy, and philanthropy. With a net worth of $25 million, she has solidified her place as one of the most accomplished and influential figures in Hollywood. From her humble beginnings to her groundbreaking EGOT status, Davis’ career and life reflect her immense talent, resilience, and commitment to creating positive change in both the entertainment industry and society. Her legacy as a pioneering actress, producer, and social advocate continues to inspire future generations.
