Angela Lansbury remains one of the most respected and enduring figures in entertainment history. With a career that spanned more than 80 years, she became a symbol of elegance, longevity, and artistic excellence. From her early days as a young Hollywood actress to her iconic role as Jessica Fletcher and her immense success on Broadway, Lansbury’s life story is as rich as her professional achievements.
This detailed article explores Angela Lansbury Net Worth, her personal life, family, relationships, career milestones, controversies, and lasting legacy.
Who Is Angela Lansbury?
Angela Brigid Lansbury was a British-American-Irish actress and singer whose work covered film, television, and stage. She was known for her remarkable adaptability, moving effortlessly between dramatic roles, musical theatre, voice acting, and television stardom.
She earned acclaim for playing both sympathetic and villainous characters early in her career, later transforming into one of television’s most beloved protagonists. Her ability to remain relevant across generations made her a rare figure in entertainment history.
Angela Lansbury Age, Birth & Early Life
- Born: October 16, 1925
- Birthplace: Poplar, London, England
Angela Lansbury was born into a politically and artistically active family. Her upbringing was shaped by both theatre and public service, which heavily influenced her discipline and worldview. During World War II, she moved with her family to the United States, where her acting career would soon begin.
Angela Lansbury Father, Family, Brothers & Sisters
Angela Lansbury came from a notable family background:
- Father: Edgar Lansbury, a British politician and businessman
- Mother: Moyna Macgill, a respected Irish actress
- Brothers: Twin brothers Bruce Lansbury and Edgar Lansbury Jr.
- Half-sister: Isolde
Her family environment fostered creativity and resilience. After her father’s death when she was young, Lansbury’s mother played a crucial role in supporting the family and encouraging Angela’s artistic ambitions.
Angela Lansbury Young: Rise to Stardom
Angela Lansbury began her acting career as a teenager. At just 17 years old, she made her film debut and quickly gained recognition for her maturity and screen presence. Unlike many young actresses of her era, she was often cast in complex, older, or morally ambiguous roles.
Her early performances earned her Academy Award nominations and established her reputation as a serious and capable actress rather than a fleeting starlet.
Angela Lansbury Movies and TV Shows
Notable Movies
- Gaslight (1944)
- National Velvet (1944)
- The Manchurian Candidate (1962)
- Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971)
- Beauty and the Beast (1991 – voice of Mrs. Potts)
Television
Her television legacy is dominated by one iconic role:
- Murder, She Wrote (1984–1996)
How Old Was Angela Lansbury When She Played Jessica Fletcher?
Angela Lansbury was 58 years old when Murder, She Wrote premiered in 1984. Her portrayal of Jessica Fletcher defied Hollywood age norms and proved that leading roles for older women could achieve massive success.
Angela Lansbury Net Worth
At the time of her passing, Angela Lansbury Net Worth was estimated at around $70 million.
Sources of Wealth
- Long-running television salary (Murder, She Wrote)
- Broadway and West End productions
- Film royalties and syndication
- Voice acting and producing credits
Her financial success was a direct result of consistency, smart career choices, and decades of relevance across entertainment platforms.
Angela Lansbury Married To: Husbands & Relationships
Angela Lansbury was married twice:
- Richard Cromwell (1945–1946) – Short-lived marriage, later annulled
- Peter Shaw (1949–2003) – Actor and producer; marriage lasted over 50 years until his death
Her second marriage was one of Hollywood’s most enduring, marked by mutual respect and support rather than public drama.
Angela Lansbury Kids & Grandchildren
Angela Lansbury had:
- Two biological children:
- One stepson: David Shaw
She was also a grandmother, though she kept her grandchildren’s lives largely private. Family was extremely important to Lansbury, and she often stepped away from projects to prioritize her children’s wellbeing.
Angela Lansbury and Charles Manson: The Truth
One of the more misunderstood aspects of Angela Lansbury’s life involves her indirect connection to Charles Manson.
During the late 1960s, Lansbury revealed that her daughter became involved with a group of young people who were socially connected to the Manson circle. Alarmed by the drug culture and dangerous influences surrounding her children, Lansbury made the decisive choice to move her family from Los Angeles to Ireland.
It is important to clarify:
- Angela Lansbury had no involvement with Charles Manson or his crimes
- Her actions were preventive and protective as a mother
This decision likely saved her family from long-term harm and demonstrated her strong parental instincts.
Is Angela Lansbury Still Alive?
No. Angela Lansbury passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 11, 2022, just five days before her 97th birthday.
Angela Lansbury Cause of Death
Angela Lansbury died of natural causes after living a long and full life. No illness or tragic circumstances were publicly disclosed. Her passing was widely mourned across the entertainment industry and by fans worldwide.
Awards, Honors & Achievements
Angela Lansbury’s accolades include:
- Honorary Academy Award
- Five Tony Awards
- Six Golden Globe Awards
- Lifetime Achievement honors from multiple institutions
She remains one of the most decorated performers in stage and screen history.
Legacy & Cultural Impact
Angela Lansbury redefined what longevity in Hollywood looks like. She challenged ageism, proved that talent transcends trends, and left behind a body of work that continues to inspire actors, writers, and audiences.
Her influence lives on through reruns of Murder, She Wrote, Broadway revivals, animated classics, and the countless performers she inspired.
At moviesmod, we celebrate icons like Angela Lansbury whose lives and careers shaped cinema and television history. Her journey is a reminder that dedication, intelligence, and grace can create a legacy that lasts generations.