The real name of Marlo Thomas is Margaret Julia Thomas. She was born on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan. Today, she is 87 years old and still admired worldwide. People know her as an Emmy Award winning actress, a social activist and philanthropist, and a true American cultural icon.
Her long career made her very successful. In 2025, her net worth is around $150 million. She became famous as the Ann Marie character in the That Girl sitcom, which made her one of the first women to lead a comedy show. Along with acting, she is also known as the Phil Donahue wife and the proud Danny Thomas daughter, carrying on his dream through St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. She has inspired many with her work, awards, and strong voice for female empowerment in media.
Marlo Thomas Quick Bio / Wiki
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Margaret Julia “Marlo” Thomas |
| Nickname | Marlo |
| Profession | Actress, Producer, Social activist, Philanthropist |
| Famous Role | Ann Marie character in the That Girl sitcom |
| Date of Birth | November 21, 1937 |
| Age (2025) | 87 years old |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan birthplace, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Parents | Danny Thomas (Father), Rose Marie Cassaniti (Mother) |
| Siblings | Tony Thomas, Terre Thomas |
| Education | University of Southern California – Teaching Degree |
| Spouse | Phil Donahue wife (m. 1980) |
| Children | Stepchildren (from Phil Donahue) |
| Religion | Roman Catholic |
| Net Worth (2025) | Celebrity net worth 150 million |
Early Life and Bio
Marlo Thomas was born on November 21, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan. She grew up as the Danny Thomas daughter, with her father being a famous comedian and actor. Her mother, Rose Marie Cassaniti, had a strong Italian heritage. Marlo also carried Lebanese heritage, giving her a rich cultural background. Later, her family moved to Beverly Hills, California, where she spent most of her childhood.
She studied at the University of Southern California and earned a teaching degree before beginning her career. Along with her siblings Tony Thomas and Terre Thomas, she enjoyed a supportive family. She was not just known as her father’s child but built her path. This foundation shaped her journey into becoming a television star and eventually an American cultural icon.
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Career
Her acting career began with roles in Bonanza, My Favorite Martian, and Ben Casey, where she impressed viewers. Her big break came when she played the Ann Marie character in the That Girl sitcom, a show that made history. She became part of female lead sitcom history by portraying an independent single woman in New York. This role made her a television star.
Marlo later appeared in the Barefoot in the Park play and the Broadway Clever Little Lies production. She also created the children’s project Free to Be… You and Me, which was highly successful. Over the years, she became an Emmy Award winning actress, a Golden Globe winner, and a Peabody Award recipient. She also earned a Grammy Award for her outstanding children’s work.
Personal Life
In 1980, Marlo Thomas married Phil Donahue, the famous Phil Donahue talk show host. Since then, she has proudly been known as the Phil Donahue wife. She became stepmother to his five children and has been a central figure in their lives. Together, they created a strong family bond, balancing personal life with professional commitments.
Marlo and Phil owned several properties, including a Connecticut estate that was later sold. Today, they live in their Upper East Side penthouse in New York City. She has always remained close to her siblings Tony Thomas and Terre Thomas. Though she has no biological children, she continues to embrace her role as a loving stepmother and family supporter.
Plastic Surgery
There have been constant plastic surgery rumors surrounding Marlo Thomas. People often mention possible facelifts, fillers, and rhinoplasty when talking about her appearance. Over the years, her face has changed noticeably, and it has led to speculation. She has never directly confirmed undergoing surgery, which keeps the discussion open among fans and critics.
Many believe Hollywood pressures women, especially an actress, to maintain a youthful look. This has often overshadowed her real achievements. Despite the rumors, she prefers focusing on her work as an American cultural icon. She continues to be known more for her talent, activism, and contributions to society than for unconfirmed beauty procedures.
Marlo Thomas Awards
Marlo Thomas has received numerous awards throughout her career. She is an Emmy Award winning actress, a Golden Globe winner, and a Peabody Award recipient. She also earned a Grammy Award for her children’s project Free to Be… You and Me. Her contributions to entertainment and society have been recognized on multiple levels, making her achievements truly remarkable.
She is also a Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, one of the highest honors in America. In addition, she won the Women in Film Lucy Award for her role in advancing women’s presence in the media. These recognitions reflect her impact as not only a television star but also a social activist and philanthropist with influence across generations.
Social Influence
Marlo has played a huge role as a social activist. She works as the National Outreach Director St. Jude, continuing the mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital started by her father. Her leadership has raised millions for children’s healthcare. She is also known as a children’s rights advocate, and her influence has shaped the gender equality movement.
She is a Ms. Foundation for Women co-founder and remains one of the strongest voices in women’s empowerment. As a Hollywood humanitarian, Marlo has supported countless charities and campaigns. She has consistently used her fame for good causes. Her voice in female empowerment in the media still resonates today, making her a true leader for fairness and equality.
What is Marlo Thomas’s Net Worth?
Marlo Thomas’s celebrity net worth 150 million in 2025 places her among the wealthiest veterans in Hollywood. This wealth comes from her decades-long career as an actress, producer, and social activist. She also made significant money through real estate investments, including her Connecticut estate and her current Upper East Side penthouse in New York. Her career and smart investments ensured financial success.
Her fortune is also combined with her husband, the Phil Donahue talk show host, which further strengthens their wealth. She has also earned income from books, stage performances, and public speaking. This impressive net worth $150 million reflects not just her acting but also her strategic financial decisions, making her a strong example of success in Hollywood.
FAQ’s
What is Marlo Thomas’s real name?
Marlo Thomas’s real name is Margaret Julia Thomas. She was born in Detroit, Michigan, and is the daughter of Danny Thomas, who later became an American cultural icon.
How old is Marlo Thomas in 2025?
Marlo Thomas was born on November 21, 1937. That makes her 87 years old in 2025, still active as a social activist and philanthropist.
What is Marlo Thomas’s net worth?
In 2025, Marlo Thomas has a celebrity net worth 150 million. She earned it through her acting career, awards, book sales, real estate, and Hollywood humanitarian work.
Who is Marlo Thomas married to?
Marlo Thomas has been married to Phil Donahue talk show host since 1980. She is also stepmother to his children and enjoys a strong marriage.
What awards has Marlo Thomas won?
Marlo Thomas is an Emmy Award winning actress, Golden Globe winner, Peabody Award recipient, Women in Film Lucy Award honoree, and a Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient for her lifelong contributions.
Conclusion
Marlo Thomas is more than just a famous face from the That Girl sitcom. She is a strong voice for women and a true American cultural icon. Her work as a social activist and philanthropist proves she cares deeply about people. From helping at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital speaks out for female empowerment in the media, her journey is full of purpose and passion.
Today, her achievements shine brighter than ever. At 87 years old, she continues to inspire millions around the world. Her net worth in 2025 is nearly $150 million, showing the impact of her long career. She is remembered as the beloved Ann Marie character, the proud Danny Thomas daughter, and the supportive Phil Donahue wife. Marlo Thomas will always be admired as a woman who changed television and helped countless lives through her work.
Grace Winslow is the dedicated admin of Celebroyale, a star-studded website all about celebrities and their fascinating lives. With a passion for entertainment and a sharp eye for trending stories, Grace Winslow ensures the site stays fresh, engaging, and packed with the latest buzz. Whether uncovering hidden facts or curating must-know updates, Grace Winslow is always ready to bring fans closer to their favorite stars, one celebrity story at a time!
