Who Inherited Steve McQueen’s Money?
Steve McQueen was a legendary American actor, known for his roles in iconic films such as “Bullitt” and “The Great Escape.” He was not only a talented actor but also a successful race car driver and a style icon. McQueen’s net worth at the time of his death in 1980 was estimated to be around $30 million. However, the question remains: who inherited his fortune? Let’s delve into the details and find out.
1. The First Wife: Neile Adams
Steve McQueen’s first wife, Neile Adams, was married to him from 1956 to 1972. They had two children together, a daughter named Terry and a son named Chad. Neile Adams was an actress and singer, and she had a successful career of her own. However, despite their divorce, McQueen reportedly left a significant portion of his estate to Adams. It is believed that she received a substantial sum of money as part of the inheritance.
2. The Second Wife: Ali MacGraw
After divorcing Neile Adams, Steve McQueen married actress Ali MacGraw in 1973. However, their marriage was short-lived and ended in divorce in 1978. Ali MacGraw was already a successful actress when she married McQueen, having gained fame for her role in the film “Love Story.” While it is unclear if McQueen left any part of his fortune to MacGraw, it is unlikely considering their divorce and the relatively short duration of their marriage.
3. The Children: Terry and Chad McQueen
As mentioned earlier, Steve McQueen had two children with his first wife, Neile Adams. Terry and Chad McQueen both followed in their father’s footsteps and pursued careers in the entertainment industry. Terry McQueen became an actress and appeared in several films and TV shows. Chad McQueen, on the other hand, became an actor and a professional race car driver, just like his father. It is highly likely that both Terry and Chad received a significant portion of their father’s estate.
4. The Third Wife: Barbara Minty
Steve McQueen’s third wife was Barbara Minty, a model and photographer. They got married in 1980, just months before McQueen’s untimely death. Minty was with McQueen until the end and inherited a substantial part of his estate. She later published a book titled “Steve McQueen: The Last Mile” in which she shared her experiences and memories of their time together. Minty’s inheritance likely played a significant role in her life after McQueen’s passing.
5. Charitable Contributions
Apart from his family, Steve McQueen was known for his philanthropic efforts. He supported various charitable causes during his lifetime, including the Boys Republic, a school and treatment community for troubled youth. It is believed that a portion of his fortune was donated to these causes. McQueen’s generosity and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others continue to inspire many to this day.
In conclusion, Steve McQueen’s fortune was likely divided among his family members and charitable causes. His first wife, Neile Adams, and their children Terry and Chad McQueen, were likely beneficiaries of his estate. His third wife, Barbara Minty, also inherited a significant portion of his fortune. While it is unclear if his second wife, Ali MacGraw, received any part of his estate, it is unlikely considering their divorce. Additionally, McQueen’s philanthropic efforts ensured that a portion of his wealth went towards supporting charitable causes. Steve McQueen’s legacy as an actor, race car driver, and style icon continues to live on, and his fortune has undoubtedly made a lasting impact on those who inherited it.
