Victor Mature net worth

Given the continued earnings from his films and the appreciation of his real estate investments, it is estimated that Victor Mature’s net worth would be around $22 million. Victor John Mature, born on January 29, 1913, in Louisville, Kentucky, was an American film and television actor celebrated for his rugged good looks and versatility in a wide range of roles. With a career spanning several decades, Mature became one of Hollywood's most prominent leading men, known especially for his performances in historical epics, musicals, and film noirs.

Early Life and Background

Victor Mature was born to Clara P. (Ackley) and Marcello Gelindo Maturi, an Italian immigrant who later anglicized the family name to Mature. Growing up in a working-class neighborhood, Mature attended St. Xavier High School. His early life was marked by the typical experiences of the American Midwest, but he harbored dreams of something greater. After high school, he moved to California and began studying acting at the Pasadena Community Playhouse, a renowned institution that served as a launching pad for many future stars.

Career Beginnings

Mature's entry into the film industry came in the late 1930s. His striking looks and charismatic presence quickly garnered attention, leading to a contract with Hal Roach Studios. His early work included a mix of small roles and leading parts in B-movies, but he soon caught the eye of major studios. One of his first significant roles was in the 1939 film "The Housekeeper’s Daughter," where he played a small but memorable part.

Breakthrough and Rise to Fame

Mature's breakout role came in 1940 with "One Million B.C." In this film, he portrayed Tumak, a prehistoric caveman. His physical presence and screen charisma in this role set the stage for a successful Hollywood career. Following this, Mature starred in "My Darling Clementine" (1946) as the legendary Doc Holliday, showcasing his ability to handle more complex and nuanced roles.

Peak Career and Iconic Roles

The 1950s were particularly fruitful for Mature, solidifying his status as a leading man in Hollywood. He was frequently cast in historical and biblical epics that took advantage of his robust screen presence. One of his most memorable roles was as Samson in Cecil B. DeMille's "Samson and Delilah" (1949), opposite Hedy Lamarr. The film was a massive hit and showcased Mature's ability to carry a film with his commanding performance.

Mature continued to build his reputation with roles in films like "The Robe" (1953), the first movie released in CinemaScope, where he played Demetrius. He reprised this role in the sequel, "Demetrius and the Gladiators" (1954). His portrayal of these characters contributed significantly to the popularity of biblical epics during this era.

Diversifying Roles

Although he was best known for his roles in epics, Mature's versatility as an actor was evident in his performances across various genres. In the noir classic "Kiss of Death" (1947), he played Nick Bianco, a reformed gangster, in a performance that was both gritty and heartfelt. He also demonstrated his comedic talents in the musical "Footlight Serenade" (1942) and the romantic comedy "Moss Rose" (1947).

Personal Life and Public Perception

Despite his on-screen persona as a tough leading man, Mature was known off-screen for his affable personality and self-deprecating humor. He famously quipped, "I'm not an actor—and I've got 64 films to prove it!" This humility and humor endeared him to both fans and colleagues.

Mature's personal life included several marriages. He married five times and had one daughter, Victoria Mature. His relationships and lifestyle were often covered in the tabloids, reflecting his status as a Hollywood star. Despite the glamour and attention, Mature valued his privacy and often retreated from the limelight between film projects.

Later Career and Retirement

By the 1960s, Mature began to slow down his acting career, choosing to semi-retire and enjoy life away from the relentless pace of Hollywood. However, he made notable returns to the screen in films like "After the Fox" (1966), where he parodied his own screen image alongside Peter Sellers, and "Head" (1968), the Monkees' movie in which he played a satirical role.

Mature officially retired from acting in the early 1980s, though he occasionally appeared in television commercials and guest spots. He spent his later years in Rancho Santa Fe, California, enjoying a quieter life filled with hobbies such as golf.

Legacy and Impact

Victor Mature passed away on August 4, 1999, in San Diego, California, from leukemia. His death marked the end of an era for many who had admired his work over the decades. Mature's legacy in Hollywood is significant, as he brought a unique combination of rugged masculinity, charm, and versatility to his roles. His performances in historical and biblical epics, as well as his contributions to film noir and musicals, have left an indelible mark on the film industry.

Mature's career serves as a testament to his talent and adaptability. Despite his own humorous dismissal of his acting abilities, his body of work proves otherwise. He remains a beloved figure in classic Hollywood cinema, remembered for his compelling screen presence and the distinctive characters he brought to life.