Harry Belafonte was a well-known artist and campaigner who greatly affected the world through his many different jobs.
Belafonte’s work as a singer, actress, and humanitarian will be remembered for years. In this article, Fidlarmusic will talk about Harry Belafonte net worth and his current life.
What Is Harry Belafonte’s Net Worth and Salary 2023?
Harry Belafonte net worth was estimated to be around $30 million at the time of his death. This wealth was accumulated through his successful music and film career, as well as various investments in properties such as his Manhattan building and St. Martin estate.
Harry Belafonte’s Overview
Early Years
Born Harold George Bellanfanti Jr. on March 1, 1927, in New York City, Harry Belafonte was the son of Caribbean immigrants.
Growing up between the USA and Jamaica exposed him to various musical genres. In 1945, he returned to New York and enlisted in the Navy before enrolling in the Actors Studio.
Music Work During 1950s and 1960s
In the 1950s, Harry Belafonte’s singing quickly became a well-known name. His music had parts of Calypso, folk, and pop. He was known for his smooth voice and charisma on stage.
His album Calypso, which came out in 1956, was the first LP to sell more than a million copies, and its hit song Day-O (The Banana Boat Song) made him famous all over the world.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Belafonte kept putting out popular records like Belafonte at Carnegie Hall and Jump Up Calypso, which helped him become a worldwide star.
Further Music Career and Retirement
Belafonte continued to record music throughout the 1970s and 1980s. However, his focus gradually shifted towards social and political activism.
Despite this shift, he remained an influential figure in the music industry and collaborated with numerous artists. In 2012, Belafonte released his final studio album, My Song Goes On, before retiring from the music industry.
Film Career
In addition to his music career, Belafonte also enjoyed success as an actor. His film debut came in 1953 with Bright Road, and he later starred in critically acclaimed films like Carmen Jones (1954) and Island in the Sun (1957).
Belafonte became the first Black actor to win an Emmy Award for his performance in Tonight with Belafonte (1959).
Throughout his acting career, Belafonte appeared in over 30 films and television series, often using his platform to break down racial barriers in Hollywood.
Activism and Charity
Harry Belafonte tirelessly advocated for civil rights and humanitarian causes throughout his life. As a close friend and supporter of Martin Luther King Jr., he was deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement.
Additionally, Belafonte used his influence to raise awareness for various global issues, including apartheid in South Africa, famine relief in Ethiopia, and HIV/AIDS prevention.
Belafonte was a founding member of the USA for Africa initiative, which released the charity single We Are the World in 1985.
He also co-founded the Sankofa Justice & Equity Fund, an organization dedicated to supporting grassroots movements fighting for social change.
From 1987 to 1992, Belafonte’s activism extended to his involvement with UNICEF, where he served as a Goodwill and Emeritus ambassador.
Personal Life
During his life, Harry Belafonte got married three times. From 1948 to 1957, he was married to Marguerite Byrd. They had two children together.
He married dancer and actor Julie Robinson in 1957, and they had two more children together.
After 51 years of marriage, they split up in 2008. Belafonte married photographer Pamela Frank later that year, and they stayed together until he died.
Belafonte was a big fan of African art and collected it throughout his life. He had a large collection of it on show in his Manhattan apartment.
He also liked to spend time at his property in St. Martin, which was a luxurious house that showed how much he loved the culture of the Caribbean.
Death
Harry Belafonte died in his New York City studio on April 25, 2023. He was 96 years old. His death ended an era because he was one of the last live legends from Hollywood’s golden age and a pioneer in the music business.
Belafonte’s death saddened fans and other artists because they remembered how talented he was and how strongly he stood up for social justice.
Manhattan Building and St. Martin Property
Belafonte’s flat in Manhattan was in a historic building with beautiful cityscape views. The apartment was filled with his large African art collection, which showed how much he loved the land and its culture.
His St. Martin estate, with its lush grounds, private beach, and luxurious rooms, was a sign of how much he loved the Caribbean. Together with his other investments, these homes helped add to his large net worth.
Why Is Harry Belafonte Famous?
Harry Belafonte’s fame can be attributed to his groundbreaking work as a musician, actor, and activist.
His music career brought Calypso to the mainstream, and his unique style and captivating voice left an indelible mark on the industry.
As an actor, Belafonte broke barriers in Hollywood and earned numerous accolades for his performances.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Belafonte’s dedication to activism and humanitarian work is an integral part of his legacy.
His unwavering commitment to social justice and global causes made him revered in the civil rights movement and beyond.
Harry Belafonte’s life is a powerful example of how one person’s talent, passion, and determination can impact the world.
FAQs About Harry Belafonte
Harry Belafonte is no longer alive, right?
Yes, Harry Belafonte has died at the age of 96. He was a pioneering singer and actor who became a civil rights hero. His publicist told CBS News that he had died.
How is Harry Belafonte’s voice right now?
At the time of the story, Harry Belafonte was 84 years old. He had had benign nodules on his vocal cords for several years, which made his voice sound like it was made up of two voices.
What are three things about Harry Belafonte that are interesting?
- The Academy gave him a special award.
- His parents came to the US from Jamaica.
- He was the first person of African descent to win an Emmy. He also got a group of famous people to join the March on Washington in 1963.
Conclusion
The life and legacy of Harry Belafonte offer a remarkable story of talent, perseverance, and commitment to making the world a better place.
From his groundbreaking music career to his passionate activism, Belafonte leaves a rich legacy that will continue inspiring future generations.
As we remember and celebrate his life, we can draw upon his lessons: to use our talents to uplift others and fight for a more just and equitable world.
