Bing Crosby Net Worth - Pulptastic

May 2024 · 3 minute read

What was Bing Crosby’s net worth?

Bing Crosby, the American singer, comedian, and actor, had a net worth of $50 million at the time of his death, after adjusting for inflation. He was one of the most popular and influential entertainers of the 20th century, known for hits like “White Christmas” and “Swinging on a Star.” Crosby also appeared in numerous films, including the Academy Award-winning “Going My Way.”

With a smooth, baritone voice and innovative use of technology in recording and broadcasting, Crosby’s legacy as a performer and cultural icon continues to endure to this day.

Bing Crosby’s Early Life and Education

Bing Crosby, born Harry Lillis Crosby on May 3, 1903 in Tacoma, Washington, moved with his family to Spokane, Washington. In 1917, Crosby worked as a property boy for Spokane’s “Auditorium” and was exposed to some of the finest acts of his day, including Al Jolson. Crosby graduated from Gonzaga High School in 1920 and enrolled at nearby Gonzaga University. However, he only attended Gonzaga for three years. The university awarded Crosby an honorary doctorate degree in 1937. Gonzaga University has a large collection of Crosby memorabilia, including photographs, correspondence, and other materials.

Bing Crosby’s Impact on Music and Film

Bing Crosby’s laid-back singing style, influenced by technical recording innovations, would go on to influence many artists later in life. He also had a tremendous impact on the development of the postwar recording industry, pre-recording his radio shows and mastering commercials onto magnetic tape for the first time ever in history.

Crosby’s vocal style popularized “singing in American”, characterized by his conversational ease, which became known as “crooning”. He admired Louis Armstrong’s musical ability and demanded equal billing alongside white co-stars in the film “Pennies from Heaven” (originally called “The Peacock Feather”), which he signed an agreement with Columbia to star in.

During WWII, Crosby made live appearances for American troops, earning the nickname “Der Bingle”. In a poll given to U.S. troops, he was ranked as the most positive influence in boosting G.I. morale, ahead of FDR, General Dwight Eisenhower, and Bob Hope. Crosby appeared in several “Road to” films alongside Bob Hope and won an Academy Award for Best Actor in “Going My Way” (1944).

Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” Becomes One of the Bestselling Songs in History

Bing Crosby starred in the 1954 Christmas movie “White Christmas”, which featured the title song that would become one of the most-played songs in recording history. Crosby’s version of the song has sold over 100 million copies worldwide, making it one of the bestselling songs in history. The songwriter Irving Berlin earned approximately $65 million from the song alone. Crosby and his heirs have also earned tens of millions for the track, which was named the bestselling single of all time by the Guinness Book of World Records.

Bing Crosby’s Personal Life

Bing Crosby lived a celebrated life in the public eye until his sudden death in 1977. He collapsed while playing golf with friends and died instantly from a heart attack.

Crosby was married twice in his life. His first wife was actress Dixie Lee, and his second wife was also an actress named Kathryn Grant.

Bing Crosby’s Legacy

Bing Crosby is a member of the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

In 2006, the Metropolitan Theater of Performing Arts, known as ‘The Met’, was renamed ‘The Bing Crosby Theater’ in his honor.

The Bing Crosby name was also used for the Bing Crosby Stadium in Front Royal, Virginia, as a tribute to his fundraising efforts.

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