Ever wondered about Walter Cronkite’s net worth? Let's take a deep dive into the financial world of this legendary newsmaker and see what makes him so successful.
Quick facts
| fact | detail |
|---|---|
| real name | Walter Leland Cronkite Jr. |
| popular names | Walter Cronkite |
| gender | male |
| date of birth | November 4, 1916 |
| age | 92 (at death) |
| parents | Dr. Walter Leland Cronkite (father), Helen Lena Fritsch (mother) |
| brothers and sisters | not applicable |
| place of birth | st joseph missouri |
| Country of Citizenship | American |
| Race | not applicable |
| educate | University of Texas at Austin, Moody School of Communication, Lanier Middle School, Baker Montessori School, San Jacinto High School (Houston) |
| marital status | Married |
| sexual orientation | straight |
| wife/spouse | Mary Elizabeth Maxwell Cronkite (M. 1940–2005) |
| children | 3, including Kathy Cronkite, Nancy Cronkite, Chip Cronkite |
| Dating | not applicable |
| net worth | US$20 million |
| source of wealth | Journalism, Television Anchor, Radio Personality, Television Producer |
| high | 6 feet 0 inches |
What is Walter Cronkite's net worth in 2024?
Walter Cronkite's net worth at the time of his death in 2009 was $20 million. This huge sum of money was accumulated during his extensive career in journalism and television broadcasting.
Compared to other famous figures, Carmen Sevilla’s net worth is between $1 million and $5 million, while Luis Vigoro’s net worth is around $5 million.
Cronkite's financial status reflects his significant influence and successful career in the media industry.
Walter Cronkite's annual salary/income in 2024
Although Cronkite passed away in 2009, his legacy continues. At the peak of his career, Cronkite received a generous salary. In 1981, his contract with CBS was worth $1 million per year, equivalent to about $2.7 million today.
Even after retiring, Cronkite still received $150,000 a year in consulting fees from CBS.
Walter Cronkite Financial Overview
Early Career and Initial Income
Walter Cronkite began his journalism career in various newspaper reporting jobs covering news and sports. His first broadcast job was as a radio announcer at WKY in Oklahoma City. This initial role paved the way for his future success.
Cronkite then joined United Newspapers International (UPI) in 1937, significantly boosting his career and earnings.
Career Peaks and Main Sources of Income
Cronkite's most high-profile role was as anchor of the CBS Evening News from 1962 to 1981.
In 1981, Cronkite signed a groundbreaking contract with CBS that earned him $1 million per year.
Adjusted for inflation, that would be equivalent to about $2.7 million per year today. His coverage of major historical events during his tenure at CBS contributed significantly to his financial success.
Major events covered and their impact on profitability
Cronkite's career was marked by his coverage of major historical events. He covered bombings in World War II, the Vietnam War and the Nuremberg Trials.
His coverage of the assassination of John F. Kennedy was particularly memorable, displaying his emotional and reliable reporting style. These major events not only enhanced his status but also had a positive impact on his income.
Awards, honors and their financial impact
Cronkite received numerous awards and honors during his career, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
He also won two Peabody Awards, a George Polk Award and an Emmy Award. These recognitions not only recognize his contributions to journalism, but also enhance his marketability and financial stability.
Post-retirement income and advice
After retiring from CBS Evening News in 1981, Cronkite continued to make money through consulting positions.
CBS paid him $150,000 a year to serve as a consultant, a position he held until 1988.
Legacy and ongoing impact on wealth
Cronkite's legacy continues to influence the world of journalism. Arizona State University's Cronkite School of Journalism attests to his influence.
His influence on future journalists and media figures ensured that his legacy lives on, both in terms of reputation and financial impact.
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FAQs about The Walter Cronkite Hotel
Who is Cronkite's wife?
He married Betsy Maxwell.
How many children did Cronkite have?
He has three children.
Where was Walter Cronkite born?
He was born in St. Joseph, Missouri.
What was Cronkite's maximum salary?
Cronkite's maximum annual salary was $1 million, equivalent to $2.7 million today.
What awards did Cronkite win?
He received several awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and a moon rock from NASA.
Where did Cronkite go to college?
He attended the University of Texas at Austin.
What major events did Walter Cronkite cover?
He reported on major events such as World War II, the Vietnam War, Watergate, and the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., and John Lennon.