Introduction: Candice Bergen net worth
Candice Bergen, known for her remarkable ability to captivate audiences with her charm, wit, and presence, has become a name synonymous with success in Hollywood. Over her long and illustrious career, Candice has not only made her mark as an actress but has also proven herself as a writer, photographer, and advocate for women’s rights. From the days of her modeling career to her ground-breaking role as Murphy Brown, Candice’s journey has been one filled with fascinating moments, achievements, and a legacy that continues to impact the world of entertainment.
The actress, who came to prominence in the late 20th century, remains a beloved figure in Hollywood, admired for both her talent and her grace. But her wealth and success have not been simply a result of chance. Candice Bergen’s professional journey is a testament to her hard work, talent, and resilience. Today, we look not only at her net worth, which is estimated to be around $50 million, but also at the fascinating details of her life, career, and the many experiences that have shaped her.
Wiki Bio:
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Candice Patricia Bergen |
Date of Birth | May 9, 1946 |
Age | 78 (as of 2025) |
Birthplace | Beverly Hills, California, USA |
Nationality | American |
Profession | Actress, Author, Model, Producer |
Years Active | 1966 – Present |
Famous For | Murphy Brown, Boston Legal, Miss Congeniality |
Education | University of Pennsylvania (Did not graduate) |
Father | Edgar Bergen (Ventriloquist, Actor) |
Mother | Frances Bergen (Model, Actress) |
Spouse(s) | Louis Malle (m. 1980–1995, his death) | Marshall Rose (m. 2000–present) |
Children | Chloe Malle |
Net Worth | $50 million (as of 2025) |
Awards | 5 Primetime Emmy Awards, 2 Golden Globe Awards |
Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
Hobbies | Painting, Writing, Traveling, Cooking |
Table of Contents
Early Life and Background

Candice Bergen was born on May 9, 1946, in Beverly Hills, California, into a family that had already established a strong foothold in the entertainment world. Her father, Edgar Bergen, was one of the most famous ventriloquists in American history, known for his partnership with the beloved puppet, Charlie McCarthy. Her mother, Frances Bergen, was a model and actress, further immersing Candice in the world of show business.
Growing up in this creative environment, Candice was exposed to the world of theater, film, and comedy from an early age. Her father’s celebrity status meant that Candice was often around famous personalities, providing her with a unique perspective on the entertainment industry. While she admired her father’s career, Candice was determined to carve out her own space within the industry, rather than simply relying on her family’s name.
Candice attended the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, where she earned a degree in art history. Her intellectual curiosity and desire for a broader understanding of the world would later inform her career choices, as she ventured beyond the stereotypical roles often assigned to women in Hollywood.
After completing her education, Candice initially pursued a career in modeling, leveraging her striking looks and poised demeanor. Her tall, elegant stature, combined with her confidence, made her an ideal fit for the fashion world. She appeared in various high-profile magazines, including Vogue, cementing her status as one of the top models of the time.
However, Candice’s ambitions were never solely focused on the fashion industry. Her desire to transition into acting grew stronger, and soon, she began to appear in films and television shows. Her first major role was in the 1966 film The Sand Pebbles, where she worked alongside Steve McQueen. This marked the beginning of her journey as an actress, though it would take several years before she would truly become a household name.
Candice Bergen’s Early Acting Career
In the 1960s and 1970s, Candice Bergen continued to build her career with both television appearances and roles in feature films. During this time, she starred in several movies, including The Day the Fish Came Out (1967) and Soldier Blue (1970), but it wasn’t until the 1970s that she began to see her career take off.
In 1970, Candice starred in The Adventurers, a film in which she played the leading lady. Although the movie wasn’t a major commercial success, Candice’s performance caught the eye of critics and filmmakers. She continued to build a reputation for her ability to embody a range of characters, from dramatic to comedic, and her work began to gain increasing recognition.
Throughout the 1970s, Candice appeared in several significant films, including Starting Over (1979), where she portrayed the love interest of actor Burt Reynolds. The film was a commercial hit and marked one of the high points of her early career. She also starred alongside Peter O’Toole in the film The Sand Pebbles (1966), a role that earned her a nomination for a Golden Globe Award.
Despite her rising fame, it wasn’t until the late 1980s that Candice Bergen achieved true superstardom. In 1988, she was cast in the role that would make her an icon in the entertainment industry: Murphy Brown.
The Iconic Role of Murphy Brown
The 1988 CBS sitcom Murphy Brown catapulted Candice Bergen to international fame and solidified her status as a television legend. The show, created by Diane English, centered on Murphy Brown, an ambitious and determined investigative journalist working for a fictional TV network. Murphy was smart, bold, and unapologetically independent—a character that resonated deeply with audiences, especially women.
Candice Bergen’s portrayal of Murphy Brown was groundbreaking for its time. At a time when women were still fighting for equal representation and recognition in the workplace, Murphy Brown was a strong, successful, and witty woman who could hold her own in a male-dominated industry. The character’s fearlessness and unapologetic approach to work, relationships, and life struck a chord with viewers, earning Candice Bergen widespread acclaim.
Over the course of the show’s 10 seasons (1988-1998), Bergen’s performance garnered critical recognition. She won five Primetime Emmy Awards for her role as Murphy Brown, along with several Golden Globe Awards and other prestigious accolades. Her portrayal of the character became emblematic of the changing roles of women in both the media and real life.
The success of Murphy Brown was also marked by its fearless approach to tackling social issues such as feminism, political corruption, and the challenges faced by women in the workplace. The show’s influence went beyond entertainment, as it sparked real-world discussions on the portrayal of women in media and their place in the workforce.
Even after the show ended in 1998, the impact of Murphy Brown continued to be felt. The series was revived in 2018 for a limited run, with Candice Bergen reprising her role as the titular character. Though the revival was short-lived, it served as a reminder of the enduring legacy of both the show and the actress behind it.
Candice Bergen’s Net Worth

Over her illustrious career, Candice Bergen has amassed an estimated net worth of $50 million. This wealth comes not only from her work as an actress but also from her contributions to writing, producing, and various other ventures. Candice’s financial success has allowed her to live a life of comfort and luxury, but she has also remained grounded and focused on using her platform to advocate for important causes.
Her work in television and film, particularly her years as Murphy Brown, has contributed significantly to her wealth. With several Emmy and Golden Globe wins under her belt, Candice has enjoyed a steady stream of income from both her acting roles and the royalties from her shows and films.
In addition to her work in Hollywood, Candice has authored books, including her memoir, A Fine Romance, which was published in 2015. The book became a bestseller and further added to her net worth. The memoir not only delves into her personal life but also explores her experiences in the entertainment industry, providing an insightful look into her career and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field.
Candice Bergen’s wealth is also attributed to her successful modeling career in the early days of her career, along with her other ventures in photography and business. Her success story is one of perseverance and dedication, showing that talent and hard work can lead to substantial financial rewards.
Fun Facts About Candice Bergen
- She Once Worked as a Photographer: Before making it big in acting, Candice worked as a professional photographer and journalist.
- Fluent in French: Due to her marriage to French film director Louis Malle, she became fluent in French.
- Turned Down a Role in The Graduate: Candice was originally considered for the role of Elaine Robinson in The Graduate but turned it down.
- First Woman to Host Saturday Night Live: She made history by being the first female to host SNL in 1975.
- An Avid Painter: Bergen is passionate about painting and has created stunning artworks in her free time.
Candice Bergen’s Hobbies and Interests
Beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Candice Bergen has a deep love for the arts and creativity. Some of her favorite hobbies include:
- Painting: She finds solace in painting, often sharing her artwork with fans.
- Writing: Bergen has authored books and articles, showcasing her talent as a writer.
- Traveling: With a love for culture and exploration, she enjoys traveling worldwide.
- Cooking: Candice has expressed her love for cooking and fine dining in several interviews.
Personal Life and Relationships
Candice Bergen was married to French filmmaker Louis Malle from 1980 until his passing in 1995. The couple had a daughter, Chloe Malle, who is now a journalist and editor.
In 2000, Candice remarried real estate magnate Marshall Rose. Despite her fame, she has kept much of her personal life private, focusing on her family and career.
Candice Bergen’s Legacy and Impact
Bergen’s legacy extends beyond acting. She paved the way for strong female characters on television, challenging gender norms and societal expectations. Her work in Murphy Brown is often cited as a pioneering example of independent women in media.
She continues to influence new generations of actors and remains an inspiration for women in the entertainment industry. Her ability to balance comedy, drama, and activism has ensured her place among Hollywood’s elite.
FAQs About Candice Bergen

1. What is Candice Bergen’s net worth? Candice Bergen’s net worth is estimated to be around $50 million as of 2025.
2. What is Candice Bergen most famous for? She is best known for playing Murphy Brown in the sitcom Murphy Brown (1988-1998, 2018 reboot).
3. How many Emmy Awards has Candice Bergen won? She has won five Primetime Emmy Awards for Murphy Brown.
4. Has Candice Bergen written any books? Yes, she has authored two memoirs: Knock Wood (1984) and A Fine Romance (2015).
5. Is Candice Bergen still acting? Yes, she continues to take on roles in films and television, including The Book Club (2018) and Let Them All Talk (2020).
Conclusion
Candice Bergen is a powerhouse of talent with a legacy that spans multiple fields. From her Emmy-winning role as Murphy Brown to her successful books and artistic pursuits, she has built an empire worth $50 million. Her influence on television and her dedication to her craft ensure that she remains an enduring figure in entertainment.
As she continues to take on new projects, Candice Bergen’s impact on Hollywood and beyond remains timeless. Her story is one of perseverance, intelligence, and unwavering passion—an inspiration to generations to come.
Disclaimer
The estimated net worth figures in this article are based on publicly available sources and financial reports. While we strive for accuracy, actual figures may vary. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice.