You’ve probably seen Don Adams on the big screen or heard his voice in cartoons, but have you ever wondered how this legendary actor built his fortune? Let’s dive into the life of Don Adams, the man behind Maxwell Smart and Inspector Gadget, and uncover the secrets of his financial journey.
From his early days in entertainment to the challenges he faced later in life, we’ll explore how Don Adams amassed his wealth, broke down his salary, and navigated the ups and downs of the entertainment industry.
So, grab a seat, and let’s take a closer look at the financial legacy of one of Hollywood’s most beloved comedic actors.
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Table of Contents
Don Adams Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Donald James Yarmy |
| Popular Name | Don Adams |
| Birth Date | April 13, 1923 |
| Age | Died: September 25, 2005 (age 82 years) |
| Birthplace | Manhattan, New York City, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Hungarian-Jewish (father), Irish-American (mother) |
| Education | Dropped out from DeWitt Clinton High School |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Judy Luciano (m. 1977–1990), Dorothy Bracken (m. 1960–1976), Adelaide Efantis Adams (m. 1947–1960) |
| Children | Cecily Adams, Stacey Adams, Sean Adams, Beige Adams, Caroline Adams, Christine Adams, Catherine Adams |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Dick Yarmy (brother), Gloria Ella Yarmy (sister) |
| Parents | William Yarmy, Consuelo Morgan |
| Height (meters) | 1.75 m |
| Net Worth | $4 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Voice Acting |
Don Adams Net Worth in 2025
At the time of his passing in 2005, Don Adams had an estimated net worth of around $4 million, which, adjusted for inflation, would be roughly $6 million today. This figure speaks volumes about the financial success he achieved during his career, despite facing personal challenges later in life.
Adams’s wealth was primarily driven by his work in television and voice acting. His most iconic role as Maxwell Smart on Get Smart not only made him a household name but also secured him a steady income through reruns and syndication. His decision to take a one-third ownership stake in the show, rather than a higher upfront salary, proved to be a smart financial move that continued to pay off long after the series ended.
Even though he faced financial hurdles, including gambling issues and medical expenses, Adams’s legacy as one of the most iconic television actors of his era remains intact. His contributions to comedy and entertainment have left an indelible mark on the industry.
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Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did He Accumulate His Wealth?
Don Adams’s financial success can be traced back to his pivotal role as Maxwell Smart in Get Smart. By choosing to take a partial ownership stake in the show instead of a larger salary, he ensured that his earnings would continue long after the series ended. This strategic decision allowed him to profit from syndication and reruns, which became a significant source of income over the years.
Beyond Get Smart, Adams’s voice acting career played a crucial role in his wealth accumulation. His portrayal of Inspector Gadget and Tennessee Tuxedo became iconic, providing him with steady work in animation. He also performed in nightclubs and hosted shows like Don Adams’ Screen Test, further diversifying his income streams.
Salary Breakdown from TV Shows and Movies
While specific salary figures for Don Adams’s work are not widely available, his earnings from Get Smart were substantial, thanks to his ownership stake in the show. Other television roles, including hosting Don Adams’ Screen Test and starring in The Partners, contributed significantly to his income.
His voice acting roles, particularly as Inspector G
