The Richest Soap Opera Stars of All Time
From long-running roles on "The Young and the Restless" and "All My Children" to appearances in blockbuster films and successful product lines, these stars have found countless ways to keep the drama alive—and keep their bank accounts thriving.
Soap operas have long been a gateway to fame, fortune, and sometimes lifelong stardom for those lucky enough to land an iconic role. While these daytime dramas have a reputation for suspenseful cliffhangers and dramatic plot twists, they’ve also produced some serious wealth for their stars. This list of the top ten richest soap opera stars of all time reveals that not all the money stays on screen.
Some of these actors built their fortunes by playing the same beloved character for decades, amassing loyal fans and impressive paychecks along the way. Others leveraged their soap success to venture into movies, primetime shows, or even business ventures, proving their talents extend far beyond daytime TV. From long-running roles on The Young and the Restless and All My Children to appearances in blockbuster films and successful product lines, these stars have found countless ways to keep the drama alive—and keep their bank accounts thriving. Let’s dive into the glitz and glamour of daytime TV’s richest stars!
Alison Sweeney – $9 million
Alison Sweeney, known for her role as Samantha “Sami” Brady on Days of Our Lives and host of The Biggest Loser, has a net worth of $9 million. If you turned on the TV in the 90s and early 2000s, you probably saw Sweeney!
Fans of the former soap opera star can see her in Hallmark movies. For the past 10 years, she’s starred in murder mysteries and Christmas romance movies like Murder, She Baked: Just Desserts, and This Time Each Year.
Jack Wagner – $9.8 million
Jack Wagner, with a net worth of $9.8 million, is famous for his roles as Frisco Jones on General Hospital and Nick Marone on The Bold and the Beautiful.
Wagner’s skill as a soap opera actor has earned him a career spanning over 40 years. Though he hadn’t acted since 2013, Wagner reprised his role on The Bold and the Beautiful in 2025.
Charlotte Ross – $10 million
Charlotte Ross, who you may know as Eve Donovan from Days of Our Lives, is now worth over $10 million! Since her debut role in the ‘80s, the blonde bombshell has continued to grace the screens in countless roles, proving her skill and depth as an actor.
Though she has stepped away from soap operas, Ross found success on shows like NYPD Blue, Glee, and Arrow.
John Aniston – $10 million
John Aniston accumulated a net worth of $10 million after a lifelong career portraying Victor Kiriakis on Days of Our Lives. He’s one of the most memorable characters in soap opera history, appearing in over 3,000 episodes of the hit show.
In 2022, Aniston received the Daytime Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the genre, presented to him by his own iconic daughter, Jennifer Aniston!
Deidre Hall – $12 million
Deidre Hall, seen in Emergency!, The Young and the Restless, and Days of Our Lives, is worth a whopping $12 million!
Her character, Marlena Evans, appeared in over 5,000 episodes over Hall’s 40-year career. It earned her a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, three Soap Opera Digest Awards, and the nickname, “Queen of Daytime Televison.”
Josh Duhamel – $18 million
Josh Duhamel, best known for his role as Leo du Pres on All My Children, has an impressive net worth of $18 million. After leaving the soap in 2002, Duhamel quickly transitioned to primetime TV and blockbuster films, becoming a household name.
These days, Duhamel is recognized for his roles in the Transformers franchise and romantic comedies like Shotgun Wedding.
Vanessa Marcil – $4 million
Vanessa Marcil, beloved for her role as Brenda Barrett on General Hospital, boasts a net worth of $4 million. Her portrayal of the fiery and passionate Brenda earned her a devoted fan base and several awards.
Since her soap opera days, Marcil has appeared in hit TV shows like Las Vegas and Beverly Hills, 90210. She continues to act in TV movies and remains a fan favorite for her unforgettable performances.
Eileen Davidson – $3 million
Eileen Davidson, best known for her roles as Ashley Abbott on The Young and the Restless and Kristen DiMera on Days of Our Lives, has a net worth of $3 million. Her performances and ability to play multiple characters have made her a standout in the soap opera world.
Beyond soaps, Davidson appeared on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and has written mystery novels. She continues to act and remains a beloved figure in daytime television.
Nancy Lee Grahn – $3 million
Nancy Lee Grahn, celebrated for her role as Alexis Davis on General Hospital, has a net worth of $3 million. With her sharp wit and commanding presence, Grahn has been a staple in the soap opera world for decades, earning multiple Daytime Emmy Awards.
Outside of General Hospital, Grahn is an outspoken advocate for social issues and frequently engages with fans on social media.
Kristian Alfonso – $5 million
Kristian Alfonso, renowned for her role as Hope Williams Brady on Days of Our Lives, has a net worth of $5 million. Her portrayal of the beloved character spanned nearly four decades, making her one of the most iconic figures in soap opera history!
Since leaving Days of Our Lives in 2020, Alfonso has appeared in Hallmark movies and the Days spinoff, Beyond Salem.
Michelle Stafford — $15 Million
Michelle Stafford’s portrayal of Phyllis Summers on The Young and the Restless brought her critical acclaim, a loyal fan base, and a $15 million net worth. Her Emmy-winning performances and charisma have made her a beloved figure.
Before becoming a soap sensation, Stafford strutted her stuff as a model in Asia and Europe. Since then, she has also appeared on General Hospital and ventured into health and wellness with her skincare line.
Daniel Goddard — $16.7 Million
Daniel Goddard, with a handsome net worth of $16.7 million, charmed audiences as Cane Ashby on The Young and the Restless for over a decade. His captivating performances and Australian charm have cemented his place among soap opera royalty.
His wealth largely comes from this soap role, but he has also dabbled in other acting roles and brand partnerships. Modeling gigs for brands like Calvin Klein add flair to his career and money to his wallet.
Christel Khalil — $17 Million
Christel Khalil’s long-running role as Lily Winters on The Young and the Restless has been central to her career. This Emmy-winning actress keeps fans hooked with her captivating performances and undeniable charm, making soap opera history.
Khalil’s $17 million net worth is largely a result of her time on Y&R, along with smaller roles in film and voice acting, specifically as Cornelia Hale in W.I.T.C.H.
Shemar Moore — $22 Million
Shemar Moore is a star you recognize, but you might not know he got his start on soap operas. He first captivated audiences as Malcolm Winters on The Young and the Restless with his smoldering looks and dramatic flair.
He transitioned to prime time with roles on Criminal Minds and SWAT. He now has a net worth of $22 million, but he never forgets his roots. Moore has made many guest appearances on Y&R, to the delight of fans.
Jordana Brewster — $25 Million
Jordana Brewster, with a dazzling net worth of $25 million, first stole hearts on As the World Turns, where she played Nikki Munson. Her early soap work laid the foundation for her success in Hollywood.
Zooming into fame, Brewster’s role as Mia Toretto in the Fast & Furious series revved up her career. Off-screen, her savvy real estate moves, like her LA mansion, highlight her knack for living life in the fast lane!
Eric Braeden — $25 Million
Eric Braeden is a face you probably know even if you don’t know where from. He has spent over 40 years playing the charismatic yet relentless Victor Newman on Young and the Restless.
Braeden’s longevity on the small screen has resulted in an impressive net worth of $25 million. Although, Y&R is not all he’s done. Eric also had a role in Titanic and a few TV guest roles.
Mark Consuelos — $40 Million
Mark Consuelos, with a impressive net worth of $40 million, first charmed audiences as Mateo Santos on All My Children. His on-screen charisma won hearts and led to a real-life romance with co-star Kelly Ripa!
Beyond soap operas, Consuelos’ role as Hiram Lodge on Riverdale showcases his talent for playing the ultimate bad boy. His impressive real estate portfolio, including a stunning NYC townhouse, adds to his glamorous lifestyle.
Susan Lucci — $80 Million
Susan Lucci became a household name as Erica Kane on All My Children, a role she portrayed for over 40 years, earning her place in the soap opera hall of fame. Along with the fame comes an $80 million net worth.
Aside from her soap opera fame, Lucci’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through her successful product lines and bestselling memoir. Her iconic Emmy win, celebrated with a standing ovation, added glitter to her already dazzling career in television.
Kelly Ripa — $120 Million
Kelly Ripa made her soap opera debut as Hayley Vaughan on All My Children, a role that helped catapult her career. Her bubbly charm won hearts, setting the stage for her future as a beloved TV host and icon.
Ripa is the co-host of Live!, and she’s ventured into production with her company, Milojo Productions. Her $120 million fortune stems from a blend of acting, hosting, and producing ventures that expanded her brand far beyond soap operas.
Lauralee Bell — $200 Million
Lauralee Bell, best known as Christine “Cricket” Blair on The Young and the Restless, has been a staple in the soap opera world for decades. She is the richest soap opera star of all time with a net worth of $200 million.
Her family are co-creators of Y&R and The Bold and the Beautiful, so she also benefits from the show’s legacy. Her wealth comes from both her enduring acting career and her family’s significant impact on the soap opera genre.
