William Hopper Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday

William Hopper was an American actor renowned for his compelling performances in classic Hollywood films and, most notably, as private investigator Paul Drake on Perry Mason.

William Hopper’s journey through Hollywood was shaped by lineage, service, and a defining television role that cemented his legacy. Born into show-business royalty — the son of acclaimed actor DeWolf Hopper and influential gossip columnist Hedda Hopper — William navigated the entertainment industry on his own terms, with notable success on both the big and small screens. Alongside his celebrated career, key aspects of his personal life — from marriages to his estimated net worth — have intrigued fans and industry historians alike.

Introduction

Born January 26, 1915, William Hopper grew up in an environment steeped in entertainment history, predestined for a life before the camera. Though he passed away on March 6, 1970, his contributions to film and television endure. Throughout his life, Hopper built a body of work that led to an estimated net worth of around $4 million — a testament to his sustained impact in Hollywood during the mid-20th century. 

Quick Facts (Table Summary)

Legacy of a Hollywood Scion: Making His Own Mark

From the beginning, Hopper’s life was intertwined with the studios and celebrities of classic Hollywood. Born into fame — his father an actor and his mother one of the most powerful gossip columnists of the era — William was exposed early to the mechanics of show business. 

He made his first screen appearance as an infant in silent film before formally pursuing acting as a teenager. Even with a Hollywood pedigree, Hopper worked his way through small roles in 1930s motion pictures, learning the craft on stage and in films with Paramount Pictures. 

Defining moments in William Hopper’s journey include:

• First screen role as a child in Sunshine Dad (1916) 

• Signing with Paramount Pictures in the 1930s 

• Serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II 

• Returning to acting and being cast in notable films such as Stagecoach and Rebel Without a Cause 

• Achieving widespread recognition as Paul Drake in Perry Mason 

The Core Pillars of William Hopper’s Wealth

William Hopper’s net worth was primarily shaped by his long and varied career in Hollywood. Although exact earnings from many of his roles are not publicly documented, his status as a regular on one of American television’s most popular legal dramas contributed significantly to his lasting financial legacy. 

The core pillars of William Hopper’s wealth include:

• Earnings from film roles in major studio productions

• Salaries and residuals from television, notably Perry Mason

• Long-term visibility and industry recognition contributing to steady career opportunities

Relationships & Family Life

Hopper’s personal life was shaped by two marriages. In 1940, he wed actress Jane Gilbert, with whom he had a daughter. The marriage later ended in divorce. 

He later married Jeanette Juanita Ward, and they remained together until his passing. 

Key insights into William Hopper’s relationships and personal life:

• Married Jane Gilbert (1940); one daughter 

• Later married Jeanette Juanita Ward 

• Maintained close ties to his Hollywood family background

Lifestyle, Interests & Public Presence

Beyond his on-screen work, Hopper’s life reflected a blend of classic Hollywood glamour and a grounded personal life. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, earning recognition for his service — a rare path for actors of the era. 

Beyond career success, William Hopper’s lifestyle reflected both passion and purpose, including:

• Military service with the U.S. Navy in World War II 

• Long-term involvement in stage and screen acting

• Commitment to family life

Net Worth Breakdown & Analysis

While William Hopper’s precise financial records are not widely published in the same detail as modern celebrities, reputable estimates place his lifetime earnings and estate value in the multi-million dollar range when adjusted for inflation.

This estimated net worth reflects Hopper’s sustained work across stage, film, and television — especially his enduring role on Perry Mason. 

Public Image, Legacy & Influence

William Hopper remains recognized as a memorable figure from Hollywood’s golden age. His portrayal of Paul Drake became iconic in the genre of legal drama, influencing how television detectives were perceived and contributing to the longevity of courtroom series in American culture. 

While his mother’s powerful position loomed in Hollywood gossip columns, Hopper carved out his own reputation as a reliable and charismatic performer. Today, his work continues to be rediscovered by fans of classic television and film.

Conclusion

William Hopper’s life was shaped by legacy and talent, from his birth into Hollywood royalty to his long-lasting portrayal of one of television’s most beloved private investigators. Born January 26, 1915, his story blends artistry, service, and personal resilience. With an estimated $4 million net worth accrued through decades of work, Hopper’s career stands as a testament to the enduring power of classic American entertainment.