Tori Spelling, known to many as Donna Martin from “Beverly Hills, 90210,” and the daughter of TV mogul Aaron Spelling, has had a life marked by financial turbulence despite her famous lineage. Born on May 16, 1973, Tori Spelling’s net worth in 2024 is estimated at $150,000, a stark contrast to the wealth she grew up with. Recently, she filed for divorce from her husband of 18 years, Dean McDermott. The couple shares five children: Liam, Stella, Hattie, Finn, and Beau.
Career Beginnings
Tori Spelling’s journey to fame began at a young age. She started taking acting lessons at the age of six and landed guest roles on popular TV shows such as “The Love Boat,” “Fantasy Island,” and “Saved by the Bell.” Her big break came as a teenager when she was cast as Donna Martin on “Beverly Hills, 90210,” a show produced by her father. Spelling’s decade-long role on the iconic series remains her most well-known work, establishing her as a household name.
Financial Troubles
Despite her early success and her father’s immense wealth, Tori Spelling has faced significant financial difficulties. In 2013, it was revealed that she was struggling with money. In her book, “Spelling It Like It Is,” she candidly discussed her financial woes, attributing them to her upbringing and lack of financial literacy. She admitted to having bad shopping habits and an inability to manage money properly, a problem exacerbated by her lavish lifestyle.
Inheritance Disappointment
One might wonder why Tori Spelling faces financial issues despite her father, Aaron Spelling, being worth around $500 million at the time of his death. When Aaron Spelling passed away in 2006, the majority of his estate went to his wife, Candy Spelling. Tori and her brother, Randy, each inherited about $800,000 after taxes. Tori had discussed her inheritance with her father before his death and wasn’t surprised by the outcome, though she admitted hoping for a different result.
Recent Struggles
In recent years, Tori Spelling’s financial situation has continued to deteriorate. She reportedly owed $1.3 million in back taxes to the IRS as of January 2023, which is significantly higher than her estimated net worth. Her financial struggles were highlighted in 2023 when she and her children were living in an RV after discovering toxic mold in their California home. This situation underscored the ongoing challenges she faces in maintaining financial stability.
Continuing Career
Despite her financial woes, Tori Spelling continues to work in the entertainment industry. She starred in the reality show “@Home with Tori” in 2022 and made appearances on other shows like “The Masked Singer.” Additionally, she co-hosts the throwback podcast “90210MG” with Jennie Garth, where they discuss their time on “Beverly Hills, 90210.” In late March 2024, she launched her podcast, “MisSPELLING,” amid her divorce proceedings with Dean McDermott.
Tumultuous Personal Life
Tori Spelling’s personal life has been as tumultuous as her financial situation. She married Dean McDermott in 2006 after meeting him on the set of the Lifetime movie “Mind Over Murder.” Both were married to other people at the time, and their relationship began as an affair. Over the years, their marriage faced numerous challenges, including a cheating scandal in 2014 when McDermott admitted to infidelity. Despite efforts to make their marriage work, Spelling filed for divorce in late March 2024, citing their official separation date as June 17, 2023. McDermott’s ongoing struggles with alcohol and substance abuse significantly contributed to their split.
Living Conditions
Spelling’s financial difficulties and the need to evacuate their home due to toxic mold forced her and her children to live in an RV in 2023. The family had previously stayed in a $100-a-night motel, highlighting the stark contrast between her current lifestyle and the wealth she was accustomed to during her upbringing.
Strained Relationship
Tori Spelling’s relationship with her mother, Candy Spelling, has been strained over the years. In a 2009 radio interview, Candy blamed Tori for Aaron Spelling’s death, claiming their estrangement was a factor. Despite these tensions, the mother and daughter have made efforts to reconcile. By 2022, Tori mentioned on “Jeff Lewis Live” that she and Candy were in regular contact and had grown closer.
Earnings from 90210
“Beverly Hills, 90210” was a significant part of Tori Spelling’s career, but details about her earnings from the show remain undisclosed. However, in 2019, she participated in the reboot, “BH90210,” earning $70,000 per episode and an additional $15,000 per episode as a co-creator.
Resilience and Determination
As Tori Spelling navigates her financial challenges and personal life changes, she remains active in the entertainment industry. Her continued work in television, podcasting, and writing demonstrates her resilience and determination to overcome adversity. While her financial situation may be precarious, Spelling’s commitment to her career and her children suggests that she will continue to find ways to thrive despite the obstacles she faces.
A Story of Contrasts
Tori Spelling’s life story is one of contrasts: from growing up in immense wealth to facing significant financial struggles as an adult. Her journey through fame, financial troubles, and personal challenges highlights her resilience and adaptability. As she continues to rebuild her life and career, Tori Spelling remains a fascinating figure in the entertainment industry, demonstrating that even those born into privilege can face and overcome substantial hardships.