Victoria Principal, an American actress, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, has amassed a significant net worth of $350 million. Known for her iconic role as Pamela Barnes Ewing on the popular TV series “Dallas,” Principal has built an impressive career that spans acting, business ventures, and charitable endeavors.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Victoria Principal was born on January 3, 1950, in Fukuoka, Japan. Her father, Victor Rocco Principal, was a sergeant in the United States Air Force, and her mother, Ree Veal, was a homemaker. Due to her father’s military career, Principal’s family moved frequently during her childhood, living in various locations, including London, Puerto Rico, Florida, and Massachusetts. This nomadic lifestyle led her to attend 17 different schools, including the Royal Ballet School while living in England.
Principal graduated from Miami’s South Dade Senior High School in 1968 and enrolled at Miami-Dade Community College to study medicine. However, a serious car accident caused by a drunk driver disrupted her plans, leading her to spend several months in the hospital. Faced with the prospect of repeating her first year of studies, Principal decided to pursue a career in acting instead. She moved to New York City and later to London, where she studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.
Rise to Fame with “Dallas”
In 1970, Victoria Principal moved to Los Angeles, where she landed her first film role in John Huston’s “The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean.” Her performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Most Promising Newcomer. Despite receiving offers for high-profile roles, Principal decided to pursue a career in law and took only small acting parts to support herself through school.
However, her plans changed when she was given a script for “Dallas,” a prime-time television soap opera. She auditioned for and won the role of Pamela Barnes Ewing, a character that would make her a household name. “Dallas” became one of the longest-running prime-time TV series, airing from 1978 to 1991. Principal appeared in 251 episodes and received critical acclaim for her performance, including a Golden Globe nomination for Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series.
Entrepreneurship and Skincare Line
In the mid-1980s, Victoria Principal developed an interest in natural beauty products. In 1989, she launched her skincare line, Principal Secret, which focused on natural ingredients and skincare solutions. Over the next 30 years, Principal Secret grew into a successful enterprise, generating more than $1.5 billion in revenue. In April 2019, Principal sold the company to Guthy Renker for an undisclosed sum, likely between $100 million and $200 million.
Principal’s success as an entrepreneur extended beyond her skincare line. She also launched a jewelry line called Keys & Hearts in January 2011. Her business ventures have significantly contributed to her substantial net worth, showcasing her acumen in identifying and capitalizing on market opportunities.
Philanthropy and Personal Life
Victoria Principal is deeply committed to philanthropy, supporting various charitable causes. She established The Victoria Principal Foundation for Thoughtful Existence, which funds environmental initiatives. Principal has also supported organizations such as Oceana, the National Resources Defense Council, and the American Humane Association. Additionally, she co-chaired Victory Over Violence, an organization focused on raising awareness about domestic violence.
Principal has been married twice. Her first marriage was to writer-producer Christopher Skinner in 1978, but they divorced in 1981. She then had a relationship with English singer Andy Gibb, but it ended in 1982 due to Gibb’s drug problems. In 1985, Principal married Dr. Harry Glassman, a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon. Their marriage lasted over two decades before they divorced in 2006.
Beyond her philanthropic efforts, Principal is also passionate about animal rescue. In 2012, she developed a ranch property outside Los Angeles dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals. Her dedication to animal welfare is a testament to her compassionate nature and commitment to making a positive impact.
Real Estate and Investments
Victoria Principal’s wealth is also reflected in her extensive real estate portfolio. She owns properties in California, including homes in Malibu, Big Sur, and Beverly Hills, as well as a home in Switzerland. Her investments in real estate have further solidified her financial standing, contributing to her impressive net worth.
In 1999, Principal and her husband sold their home in Marbella, Spain, for €6.4 million. Despite an investigation for alleged tax evasion related to the sale, Principal was cleared of any wrongdoing. Her real estate holdings underscore her strategic investments and ability to manage her wealth effectively.
Writing and Publications
In addition to her acting and business ventures, Victoria Principal is also a successful author. She has written several books focused on health, fitness, beauty, and general well-being. Her publications include “The Body Principal,” “The Beauty Principal,” and “The Diet Principal,” all released in the 1980s. In 2001, she published “Living Principal,” which spent 12 weeks on The New York Times Best Seller list and became a number one bestseller in the “Advice, How-To, and Miscellaneous” category.
Principal’s books have resonated with readers, offering practical advice and insights into maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Her expertise in beauty and wellness, combined with her personal experiences, has made her a trusted voice in the industry.
Legacy and Impact
Victoria Principal’s legacy extends beyond her role on “Dallas” and her entrepreneurial success. Her contributions to television, business, and philanthropy have left a lasting impact. Principal’s journey from a young actress to a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist serves as an inspiration to many.
Her dedication to environmental causes, animal welfare, and domestic violence awareness demonstrates her commitment to using her platform for positive change. As she continues to support various charitable initiatives, Principal’s influence and impact will undoubtedly endure.
Conclusion
Victoria Principal’s net worth of $350 million is a testament to her multifaceted career and entrepreneurial spirit. From her breakthrough role on “Dallas” to her successful skincare line and philanthropic endeavors, Principal has built a remarkable legacy. Her financial success, strategic investments, and commitment to charitable causes reflect her resilience, creativity, and dedication. As she continues to inspire others through her work and philanthropy, Victoria Principal remains a prominent figure in the entertainment and business worlds.
