Upon her passing in 1977, Maria Callas possessed a net worth of $8 million. It would be worth $40 million today after accounting for inflation. The problems surrounding her estate and her remarkable career were mirrored in her fortune.
Maria Callas Bio and Career Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Maria Anna Cecilia Sophia Kalogeropoulos |
| Date of Birth | December 2, 1923 |
| Place of Birth | New York City, U.S. |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) |
| Spouse | Giovanni Battista Meneghini |
| Partner | Aristotle Onassis |
| Parents | Evangelia Dimitriadou, George Kalogeropoulos |
| Profession | Operatic Soprano |
The Immortal Impact of “La Divina”
The distinctive soprano voice of Maria Callas revolutionized opera. Famed as “La Divina,” her skill breathed life into bel canto opera. She paved the way for other performers to follow with her commanding presence and dramatic energy onstage.
Disputes Over Bequests After Demise
There is no will for Callas. A legal struggle erupted over her $8 million fortune. Evangelina, her estranged mother, and Jackie, her sister, were named as the default heirs. Nonetheless, Giovanni Battista Meneghini, her ex-husband, challenged a 1954 will that designated him as the only successor.
Maria Callas Estate Distribution
| Beneficiary | Details |
|---|---|
| Mother and Sister | Initially set to inherit full estate |
| Giovanni Meneghini | Claimed estate through earlier will |
| Outcome | Negotiated 50-50 split between parties |
Jewellery Set: Stunning Markers of Riches
The jewels that Callas wore were tokens of her opulent way of life. Her collection was sold at auction by Sotheby’s in 2004. An 11.7-carat diamond ring and brooches by Van Cleef & Arpels were among the standout items. The gems were tokens of appreciation from Meneghini and her loved ones.
Disputes concerning Callas’s Estate in Court
A friend of Callas’s, Vasso Devetzi, was granted power of attorney by the family. She founded the Maria Callas Foundation with more than $1 million. The public was critical of this choice. Franco Zeffirelli and others accused her of making money off of Callas’s fame.
Callas’s Love Entanglements
The legacy of Maria Callas was enriched by the drama of her personal life. Her career was overseen by Giovanni Battista Meneghini, whom she married. She was already under intense scrutiny before her public romance with Aristotle Onassis became public knowledge. As dramatic as her performances were, her personal life was just as dramatic.
Disagreement Arises at Jewelry Auction
There was pushback when her jewelry were auctioned off in 2004. It was criticized for taking advantage of her memories. The identity of the unnamed merchant was the subject of speculation. The vendor was thought by many to be the descendent of Devetzi or Meneghini’s nurse.
Later Life and Its Influence
In her twilight years, Callas lived alone. Her impact on opera is unparalleled, even in the face of challenges. Fans are still finding inspiration in her music. In 2024, Angelina Jolie starred in a Netflix movie that retold her story.
Maria Callas: An Icon of All Time
A soprano was not all Maria Callas was. She was a cultural figure who revolutionized opera. A life as eventful as her performances is reflected in her affluence, legal conflicts, and enduring influence. Callas is still considered one of the finest opera singers of all time.
