When we talk about television legends, Sharon Gless is a name that shines bright. From her iconic role as Christine Cagney in Cagney & Lacey to her standout performances in Queer as Folk and Burn Notice, Gless has built an impressive career spanning decades. It’s no surprise that many fans are curious about Sharon Gless Net Worth and how her success in television and film has shaped her financial journey.
In this article, we’ll explore Sharon Gless’s life, career milestones, income sources, and net worth. We’ll also look at how her consistent work in the entertainment industry has turned her into one of the most respected and financially successful actresses of her time.
Who is Sharon Gless?
Sharon Gless is an American actress born on May 31, 1943, in Los Angeles, California. Coming from a family connected to the entertainment business—her grandfather was a prominent lawyer for Hollywood stars—Gless was seemingly destined for a life on screen.
She gained fame in the 1980s as Christine Cagney, a strong, intelligent detective in the groundbreaking TV show Cagney & Lacey. Over the years, her versatility allowed her to move effortlessly between drama, comedy, and character-driven roles, significantly contributing to Sharon Gless Net Worth.
A Career That Built Sharon Gless Net Worth
Early Work and Breakthrough
Sharon Gless began her professional acting career in the early 1970s. She worked steadily in guest roles on popular television series like Marcus Welby, M.D., Switch, and The Rockford Files. These roles laid the foundation for her reputation as a dependable and talented actress.
Her big break came in 1982 when she was cast in Cagney & Lacey. The show became a massive hit and ran for seven seasons, making her a household name. This role not only earned her multiple Emmy Awards but also provided her with strong financial rewards that boosted Sharon Gless Net Worth.
Long-Running TV Roles
After Cagney & Lacey, Gless continued to land high-profile roles. She starred in The Trials of Rosie O’Neill, earning another Emmy nomination. Later, she appeared in the hit series Queer as Folk as Debbie Novotny, a role that introduced her to a new generation of fans and gave her career a major resurgence.
From 2007 to 2013, she played a recurring role as Madeline Westen in Burn Notice, further adding to her professional legacy and financial stability.
These consistent appearances on long-running series played a significant role in building Sharon Gless Net Worth through salaries, syndication, and royalties.
Other Income Sources
Gless has also earned from:
- Stage performances including off-Broadway productions
- Voice acting
- Book sales from her 2021 memoir Apparently There Were Complaints
- Public appearances and speaking engagements
These diverse income streams have helped keep Sharon Gless Net Worth steady even after her peak television years.
Estimated Sharon Gless Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Sharon Gless Net Worth is estimated to be around $12 million. Her decades of work in television, strong residual income, and various side ventures have contributed to this impressive figure.
Sharon Gless Net Worth Breakdown
| Source of Income | Estimated Contribution |
|---|---|
| Television Salaries | $6 – $7 million |
| Royalties & Residuals | $2 – $2.5 million |
| Book Sales & Publishing | $500,000 – $1 million |
| Stage & Voice Acting | $500,000 – $750,000 |
| Public Appearances | $200,000 – $500,000 |
| Total Net Worth | ~$12 million |
Why Sharon Gless Net Worth Matters in Entertainment
Representation and Pioneering Roles
Sharon Gless has been a trailblazer in Hollywood. Her roles often focused on strong, independent women in male-dominated fields, something rarely seen when she began her career. These parts not only defined her image but also made her a symbol of empowerment, boosting her longevity and earning power in the industry.
Resilient Career Path
Few actors have managed to stay relevant across multiple decades, but Sharon Gless has. From the 70s to the 2020s, she has continuously worked in meaningful roles. This kind of career sustainability has played a crucial part in growing Sharon Gless Net Worth.
Diversification of Income
While many actors rely solely on screen roles, Gless has smartly diversified. Her book deal, stage work, and voiceover gigs have all added new layers to her income, showing how smart career decisions can pay off.
Comparing Sharon Gless Net Worth with Peers
| Actress | Famous Role | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|---|
| Sharon Gless | Cagney & Lacey | $12 million |
| Tyne Daly | Cagney & Lacey | $8 million |
| CCH Pounder | NCIS: New Orleans | $6 million |
| Mariska Hargitay | Law & Order: SVU | $100 million |
| Gillian Anderson | The X-Files | $40 million |
Compared to other veteran television actresses, Sharon Gless Net Worth reflects a successful and steady career, though not quite at the highest level of modern network stars.
Highlights That Contribute to Sharon Gless Net Worth
- Emmy Award-Winning Actress
- Star of 7 Seasons of Cagney & Lacey
- Critically Acclaimed Role in Queer as Folk
- Memoir Author and Stage Performer
- Over 40 Years in the Industry
- Strong Royalty Stream from Syndicated Shows
Sharon Gless’s Book: Adding to Her Legacy
In 2021, Gless released her memoir, Apparently There Were Complaints, which added a new dimension to her public image. The book was well-received and gave fans deeper insight into her personal struggles, professional triumphs, and journey through Hollywood. The memoir not only helped shape her brand but also contributed financially to Sharon Gless Net Worth.
Real Estate and Lifestyle
Though private about her personal life, it’s known that Sharon Gless owns property in Miami and Los Angeles. Her lifestyle reflects a mix of modesty and comfort, characteristic of someone who values longevity and smart investments over flashy expenses.
Gless has also been active in various charities and LGBTQ+ causes, often using her public platform for social good rather than personal gain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FQA)
What is Sharon Gless Net Worth in 2025?
Sharon Gless Net Worth is estimated to be approximately $12 million as of 2025.
How did Sharon Gless make her money?
She made her fortune through a long television career, stage performances, royalties, and book publishing.
What is Sharon Gless best known for?
She is best known for her Emmy-winning role as Christine Cagney in Cagney & Lacey, and for her role as Debbie in Queer as Folk.
Is Sharon Gless still acting?
While not as active in recent years, Gless continues to make select appearances in television and theater, and is engaged in public speaking and writing.
Has Sharon Gless written a book?
Yes, she wrote a memoir titled Apparently There Were Complaints, published in 2021. It offers an honest and humorous look into her life and career.
Does Sharon Gless earn from reruns?
Yes, she earns residuals from reruns of shows like Cagney & Lacey and Burn Notice, which continue to air and stream globally.
