What Is Lex Barker’s Net Worth and How Tarzan Made Him a Hollywood Icon?
What is Lex Barker’s net worth, and how did playing Tarzan catapult him into global stardom during Hollywood’s golden age? If you’ve ever watched classic adventure films from the mid-20th century, you’ve likely seen Lex Barker swinging from vines or riding horses through the wild west.
While his name might not be as widely known today as some of his contemporaries, Barker was once one of the most recognizable faces in American and European cinema. His career spanned over three decades and included international box office hits, multiple film contracts, and a steady income that made him a wealthy and admired star in his era.
Who Was Lex Barker?
Lex Barker was born Alexander Crichlow Barker Jr. on May 8, 1919, in Rye, New York. He came from a well-to-do family and attended Phillips Exeter Academy before enrolling at Princeton University. However, his passion for performance soon pulled him away from academics and into acting. Barker’s early adulthood was interrupted by World War II, during which he served as a major in the U.S. Army and was wounded in action in both North Africa and Italy.
After the war, Barker pursued acting full-time and quickly landed roles in Hollywood. His big break came in 1949 when he was chosen to play Tarzan, becoming the tenth actor to portray the legendary jungle hero. He starred in five Tarzan films from 1949 to 1953, following in the footsteps of Johnny Weissmuller and revitalizing the character for a new generation. His athletic build, commanding screen presence, and classic good looks made him a perfect fit for the role.
But Barker’s career didn’t stop with the loincloth. After his Tarzan tenure, he appeared in numerous Westerns, crime dramas, and adventure films. In the 1960s, he experienced a second wave of fame in Europe, particularly in West Germany, where he starred in a series of wildly popular films based on the novels of Karl May. His success overseas cemented his reputation as an international film star and expanded his income and influence far beyond Hollywood.
Lex Barker’s Net Worth at the Time of His Death
Lex Barker passed away suddenly on May 11, 1973, just three days after his 54th birthday. At the time of his death, his estimated net worth was believed to be between $500,000 and $1 million, which would translate to approximately $3 million to $6 million in today’s dollars when adjusted for inflation. His earnings came from years of consistent acting work, with peak salaries during his Tarzan days and major financial boosts during his European film career.
Unlike many of his peers, Barker managed to avoid some of the financial pitfalls that plagued other actors of his generation. While he wasn’t flamboyant in his spending, he lived comfortably, traveled extensively for work, and maintained homes in both the United States and Europe. His wealth may not have been astronomical by today’s celebrity standards, but for the era he lived in, he was considered financially successful.
How Lex Barker Made His Money
Tarzan Films and Hollywood Career
Lex Barker’s most iconic role remains Tarzan, and it’s where he earned a substantial portion of his early wealth. Between 1949 and 1953, he appeared in five official Tarzan films: Tarzan’s Magic Fountain, Tarzan and the Slave Girl, Tarzan’s Peril, Tarzan’s Savage Fury, and Tarzan and the She-Devil. These films were distributed worldwide and made Barker a household name.
Although exact salary records from that period are scarce, lead actors in successful franchises like Tarzan could command strong paychecks—often in the range of $50,000 to $100,000 per film during the 1950s, which would equate to several hundred thousand in modern dollars. Barker’s involvement in merchandising, magazine covers, and global promotional tours also brought in additional income.
After moving on from the role of Tarzan, Barker continued working in Hollywood, appearing in genre films, television shows, and B-movies. Though these roles weren’t always critically acclaimed, they kept him employed and helped him maintain a solid income stream.
European Stardom and Karl May Films
In the 1960s, Lex Barker’s career took a surprising and lucrative turn when he became a megastar in Europe. He was cast as Old Shatterhand in a series of German films based on Karl May’s novels. These Western-style adventure films were wildly popular in German-speaking countries and introduced Barker to a whole new audience.
The Winnetou series and similar projects made him a sensation in Europe, earning him top billing and significant financial compensation. His contracts in Germany were reportedly generous, and he remained in demand for nearly a decade. Unlike the typecasting he faced in the U.S., Europe offered him more diverse roles and a longer shelf life as a leading man.
This European chapter of Barker’s career not only extended his relevance but also expanded his income considerably, especially at a time when many former Hollywood stars were struggling to find work.
Endorsements and Public Appearances
While Barker wasn’t known for large-scale endorsements like today’s celebrities, he did benefit from promotional appearances, especially during his Tarzan years. Public appearances, press tours, and TV guest spots added modest income to his portfolio.
He also enjoyed international fame, which translated to personal appearances at film festivals, premieres, and special screenings. These events often came with appearance fees and travel coverage, further padding his earnings.
Lex Barker’s Lifestyle and Personal Life
Lex Barker’s personal life was as interesting as his film career. He was married five times, most famously to actress Lana Turner. His relationships were widely covered by the press, but he generally maintained a composed and private image in public.
Barker was not known for excessive spending. He owned property in Europe and the United States and traveled frequently for work. While he wasn’t a real estate tycoon or investor, he appeared to manage his wealth responsibly. His modest, well-maintained lifestyle allowed him to enjoy a comfortable life without the debt or scandals that affected many of his peers.
Legacy and Posthumous Recognition
Even after his death, Lex Barker’s films continue to be shown on classic movie channels and streaming platforms, especially in Europe. His portrayal of Tarzan remains a fan favorite, and his European films still have a cult following. These reruns and digital licensing deals may generate small residual payments for his estate, depending on contractual agreements.
Barker was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960, a testament to his contributions to film. In Germany, he is still celebrated as a cinematic icon, and fan communities often revisit his work and legacy.
Lex Barker’s net worth may not rival modern movie stars, but his legacy, international impact, and consistent career speak volumes. He was a Hollywood hero, a European icon, and a talented actor who made the most of every opportunity—on and off the screen.
Featured image source: www.tcm.com
