Marlo Thomas: The Legendary Actress Who Defied Expectations
Marlo Thomas is a name that many people recognize as the star of the groundbreaking sitcom That Girl, which ran from 1966 to 1971.
But she is much more than that. She is also a producer, author, activist, philanthropist, and the wife of talk show legend Phil Donahue.
In this article, we will take a look at her remarkable life and career, and how she has influenced generations of women with her message of empowerment and freedom.
Marlo Thomas’s Net Worth
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Marlo Thomas has an estimated net worth of $150 million as of 2021.
Marlo has earned her fortune from her acting roles, producing projects, book sales, and endorsements.
She is also the co-creator of the children’s franchise Free to Be… You and Me, which has generated millions of dollars in revenue from albums, books, TV specials, and merchandise.
She has donated a large portion of her earnings to various charitable causes, especially St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which was founded by her father Danny Thomas.
Marlo Thomas Date of Birth
Marlo Thomas was born on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan.
Her birth name is Margaret Julia Thomas, but she was nicknamed Marlo by her family because of her childhood mispronunciation of the name Margo.
She is the eldest of three children of Rose Marie Cassaniti and Danny Thomas, a famous comedian and actor of Lebanese and Sicilian descent.
She has a sister, Terre, and a brother, Tony, who are both involved in the entertainment industry as well.
How Old is Marlo Thomas
As of 2021, Marlo Thomas is 85 years old.
She celebrated her birthday on November 21 with her husband Phil Donahue, who is 86 years old.
The couple has been married for 42 years, and they are still going strong.
They have five children from Phil’s previous marriage and 10 grandchildren.
They live in a penthouse apartment in New York City and also have a home in Westport, Connecticut.
Marlo Thomas Children
Marlo Thomas does not have any biological children of her own, but she is a loving stepmother to Phil Donahue’s five children from his first marriage to Marge Cooney.
They are Michael, Kevin, Daniel, Mary Rose, and James.
Marlo has said that she never wanted to have children because she felt that it would limit her career and personal choices.
She also said that she did not want to be a stereotypical stepmother, but rather a friend and mentor to Phil’s children.
She has been very close to them and has supported them in their endeavours.
Marlo is also a proud grandmother to their 10 grandchildren.
Was Marlo Thomas Married Before Phil Donahue
No, Marlo Thomas was not married before Phil Donahue.
She had several relationships with famous men, such as Herb Gardner, David Geffen, and Don Rickles, but she never tied the knot with any of them.
Marlo said that she was not interested in marriage because she did not want to lose her identity and independence.
She also said that she did not believe in the traditional roles of husband and wife and that she wanted a partner who would respect her as an equal.
She found that partner in Phil Donahue, who shared her views and values.
They met in 1977 when she was a guest on his talk show, and they married in 1980.
Marlo Thomas Now
Marlo Thomas is still active and busy in her 80s.
She continues to act, produce, write, and advocate for various causes.
Marlo has appeared in several TV shows and movies, such as:
She has also produced and starred in several TV specials and documentaries, such as:
- It Happened One Christmas
- The Lost Honor of Kathryn Beck
- Nobody’s Child
- In Search of Peace.
She has written several books, such as:
- Growing Up Laughing
- It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over
- What Makes a Marriage Last
Marlo co-authored them with Phil Donahue.
She has also been a vocal supporter of women’s rights, LGBTQ rights, and children’s welfare.
She is the National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and the co-creator of the Thanks & Giving campaign, which raises funds and awareness for the hospital.
Marlo has received numerous awards and honours for her work, such as:
- three Primetime Emmy Awards
- a Golden Globe Award
- a Peabody Award
- a Grammy Award
- the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Marlo Thomas Health
She has been in good health for most of her life, thanks to her healthy lifestyle and positive attitude.
She has said that she exercises regularly, eats well, meditates, and avoids stress.
Marlo has also said that she does not smoke, drink, or do drugs and that she takes care of her skin and hair.
She has admitted that she has had some cosmetic procedures, such as a nose job, a facelift, and Botox injections, but she has said that she does not regret them and that she feels comfortable in her own skin.
Marlo has also said that she does not fear ageing and that she embraces it as a natural part of life.
Conclusion
Marlo Thomas is a legendary actress who has defied expectations and stereotypes throughout her career and life.
She has been a trailblazer for women in the entertainment industry, and a role model for millions of people.
Marlo has also been a generous and compassionate philanthropist, and a devoted wife and stepmother.
She has lived a full and fulfilling life, and she shows no signs of slowing down. She is truly an inspiration and an icon.
