Let’s talk about DeForest Kelley's net worth. You know him as Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy from Star Trek, but there’s so much more to his story. How much did this iconic actor earn during his lifetime, and what did he leave behind as his financial legacy?
DeForest Kelley wasn’t just another face in the crowd—he was a cornerstone of the Star Trek universe. His portrayal of Bones McCoy made him beloved by fans worldwide. But beyond the character, Kelley built a solid career in Hollywood that spanned decades, conventions, and even voice acting. So, what did he really earn from all that? Let’s dive in.
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DeForest Kelley Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Jackson DeForest Kelley |
| Popular Name | DeForest Kelley |
| Birth Date | January 20, 1920 |
| Age | 79 (Died: June 11, 1999) |
| Birthplace | Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Irish ancestry |
| Education | Decatur Boys High School |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Carolyn Charlotte Meagher Dowling |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Ernest Casey Kelley (brother) |
| Parents | Clora Casey, Ernest David Kelley |
| Height (meters) | 5 ft 10½ in (1.79 m) |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Star Trek franchise, conventions, voice acting, poetry |
What is the Net Worth of DeForest Kelley in 2025?
DeForest Kelley’s net worth is estimated to have peaked at around $5 million by the time of his passing in 1999. Fast forward to 2025, and his legacy continues to inspire fans and collectors alike. Kelley's financial success wasn’t necessarily about being the highest-paid actor on the set, but about steady and consistent earnings over decades in the entertainment industry.
Compared to his co-stars like Leonard Nimoy and William Shatner, Kelley’s earnings were modest but reliable. For example, he earned a cool $1 million for his role in Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country, thanks in part to the negotiation skills of his friend and co-star Leonard Nimoy. Kelley also raked in up to $50,000 annually from convention appearances in the late 1970s, proving that his character's popularity extended far beyond the TV screen.
DeForest Kelley Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
Building His Empire: How He Earned His Wealth Throughout His Career
DeForest Kelley’s journey to financial stability wasn’t overnight—it was a marathon. His career began with small roles in films like Fear in the Night, but his big break came when he was cast as Dr. Leonard McCoy in Star Trek. From 1966 to 1969, Kelley became a household name as the cantankerous but lovable doctor aboard the USS Enterprise. Even though he wasn’t the highest-paid actor on the show, his role was crucial to its success.
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After the original series ended, Kelley reprised his role in six major Star Trek films, each bringing him increasing recognition and paychecks. His salary for Star Trek VI was a testament to how far his career had come, thanks in no small part to the advocacy of his co-star Leonard Nimoy. Outside of Star Trek, Kelley worked on over 130 acting projects, including notable roles in shows like Bonanza and Gunsmoke.
The Numbers Game: What He Was Paid for His Role in Star Trek
In the early days of
