Frank Sinatra led the Rat Pack with a $200 million fortune at his death in 1998
Frank Sinatra was the richest member of the Rat Pack, with an estimated net worth of $200 million when he died in 1998. His wealth came from music sales, film roles, Las Vegas residencies, and business ventures including Reprise Records and real estate. In contrast, Sammy Davis Jr. earned about $50 million during his lifetime but died in debt to the IRS, leaving his estate effectively insolvent.
Sammy Davis Jr. died broke despite earning $50 million
Sammy Davis Jr. had a net worth of roughly $5 million at his death in 1990, but owed the IRS $7 million. His estate was forced to auction off personal possessions to cover the debt. Davis, known as "Mr. Show Business," earned a Tony nomination for Golden Boy and starred in over 70 films and TV projects.
Dean Martin was worth $30 million at his death
Dean Martin, the "King of Cool," died on December 25, 1995, with a net worth of $30 million (about $65 million today). He gained fame with Jerry Lewis as Martin and Lewis, then starred in films like Ocean's 11 and Rio Bravo and hosted The Dean Martin Show. His cause of death was acute respiratory failure from emphysema.
Joey Bishop outlived the Pack with $10 million
Joey Bishop, the group's straight man and writer, died in 2007 at age 89 with a $10 million estate. He guest-hosted The Tonight Show 177 times and starred in his own sitcom and talk show. He was the longest-surviving Rat Pack member.
Peter Lawford had the lowest net worth at $1 million
Peter Lawford, brother-in-law to President John F. Kennedy, died in 1984 with only $1 million. His career declined after the Rat Pack ousted him in the mid-1960s, and substance abuse eroded his finances. His wealth came from residual royalties and personal property.
FAQ: Who was the richest Rat Pack member?
Frank Sinatra was the richest, with a net worth of about $200 million. Dean Martin was second at $30 million. Sammy Davis Jr. died with $5 million in assets but $7 million in IRS debt. Joey Bishop left $10 million, and Peter Lawford $1 million. None of the core members are alive today; Joey Bishop was the last to die in 2007.
