You can’t talk about legends without mentioning Diana Ross. Her name is one that that occupies a major space within the fabric of music history. One of the most iconic figures in the entertainment world, Ross’ musical legacy spans over six decades. After all, being one of the few recording artists to have two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame isn’t earned without being iconic.
This makes her not just a music legend, but a cultural phenomenon. Known for her powerful voice, stage presence and versatility, she skyrocketed to fame not only as a solo artist but also as a founding member of The Supremes. With countless accolades under her belt, Ross’ net worth is a product of her immense success across music, acting and beyond. But how did she build this fortune, and what is her financial standing as of 2025?
How Did Diana Ross Become Famous?
It’s hard to imagine a world before Diana Ross was famous. However, her rise to fame didn’t began until the late 1950s and early 1960s with the formation of The Supremes. The group was signed by Motown Records and enlisted Ross as the lead vocalist. Motown’s most successful act and one of the world’s best-selling girl groups of all time, they released chart-topping songs that defined the era. Songs like “Stop! In the Name of Love,” “Baby Love,” and “You Can’t Hurry Love” are still regarded as quintessential hits of the 60s. To this day, they remain the best-charting female group in history, with a total of 12 number-one pop singles on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.
In 1967, Ross finally launched her solo career. Her self-titled debut album was a massive success, cementing her place in music history with songs like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “I’m Still Waiting.”
Ross wasn’t done there though. Alongside quickly releasing two more albums, she gained attention for her captivating performances in film. One of her most notable works was her portrayal of Billie Holiday in the biographical film “Lady Sings the Blues,” which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
Ross’ blend of glamour and talent made her an incomparable figure in the entertainment world. By the 70s and 80s, she became not just a symbol of music, but also of empowerment.
Business Endeavors
While Ross’ musical career alone has been the cornerstone of her wealth, she has also wisely invested her fortune. Over the years, her brand has expanded to include fashion, acting, and entrepreneurial investments.
Ross’ name has become synonymous with style, so it only makes sense that one of her most lucrative ventures was in the world of fashion. The fashion icon leveraged her influence and collaborated with top designers like Saint Laurent, and Steve Madden, appearing in high-profile campaigns.
Ross has also garnered many endorsement deals throughout her career. She has worked with major brands, including Pepsi and MAC Cosmetics. Her long-standing relationship with Motown Records also provided her with substantial earnings from royalties and record sales. She has a booming career in live performances, including Las Vegas residencies and worldwide tours.
Ross’ is no stranger to diverse investments and properties as well. She has owned several luxury homes throughout her career, including real estate in California, a lavish mansion in Connecticut, and properties in other parts of the U.S. Plus,Her involvement in the entertainment industry extends into producing and acting as well, particularly in TV and films.
What is Diana Ross’ Net Worth?
As of 2025, Diana Ross is estimated to have a net worth of a whopping $250 million. This impressive figure reflects her long and successful career, spanning decades of music sales. This is coupled with lucrative business ventures, concert tours and a reigning presence in the public eye. Ross continues to earn substantial income from her extensive music catalog, including her work with The Supremes and solo projects. Moreover, having performed for over 60 years, her concerts and live performances remain highly profitable.
Beyond her music earnings, Ross also earns money from royalties generated by her film and television work, brand endorsements and business investments. While Ross isn’t necessarily releasing new music today, her legacy and influence continue to fuel her financial success.
Was Diana Ross Married?
Diana Ross has been married twice in her life. Her first marriage was to Robert Ellis Silberstein, a music executive. They married in 1971 and had two daughters together. However, despite a happy union, the two divorced in 1977. Luckily, they have remained friendly and co-parented their children well. Ross’s second marriage was to Arne Naess Jr. They married in 1985 and had two sons together. Unfortunately, this marriage ended in divorce in 2000 after 15 years. The two remained close even after their separation until his tragic passing in a mountaineering accident in 2004.
Throughout her relationships, Diana Ross has also been linked to a few high-profile romances, most notably with Motown founder Berry Gordy during the 1960s. However, she never remarried after her second divorce and has focused on her career and children. Though Diana Ross has experienced the ups and downs of marriage and relationships, she has always remained a strong, independent figure, exemplifying to women around the world that a man never defines you.
How Many Baby Fathers Does Diana Ross Have?
Diana Ross has had five children with two men. The late Arne Naess was the father of Ross and Evan, while Robert Ellis Silberstein is the father of Rhonda, Tracee, and Chudney. Most of her children have established their own careers in entertainment, most notably actress and singer Tracee Ellis Ross.
Did Diana Ross Date Michael Jackson?
Diana Ross and Michael Jackson had a complicated relationship. Jackson wrote and produced Ross’ 1982 hit “Muscles,” though their relationship seemingly went beyond professional. Jackson wrote in his autobiography that Ross was his “mother, sister and lover all combined in one”. He shared that Ross was everything he could wish for and that he hoped she would marry him. In fact, he admitted to being jealous that Ross married Arne Næss Jr. In his will, Jackson named Ross as the second person in line to take care of his children after his mother passed.