Carey Lowell is a name many people remember from the big screen and hit TV shows. But beyond the fame, her journey is a story of smart decisions, artistic growth, and a steady climb to financial success. As of 2025, Carey Lowell’s net worth stands at $12 million. And no, it didn’t come from just one blockbuster movie or lucky break. It’s the result of decades of hard work across different fields—modeling, acting, and even her creative side as a ceramic artist.
Let’s take a closer look at how Carey Lowell built her fortune and why she remains a respected figure in the entertainment world and beyond.
Her Early Life and Background
Carey Lowell was born on February 11, 1961, in Huntington, New York. Her father worked as a geologist, which meant the family moved a lot. She spent parts of her childhood living in places like Libya, the Netherlands, and France.
This international exposure gave her a broader view of the world. It also played a role in shaping her creativity. After finishing high school in Colorado, she first studied at the University of Colorado. Later, she moved to New York University to study drama, which turned out to be a turning point.
How Carey Started in Modeling
Before acting, Carey Lowell made a name for herself as a fashion model. In the 1980s, she worked with top brands like Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein. At 5 feet 10 inches tall, she had the perfect runway presence. But it wasn’t just about looks. Her professionalism and charm helped her stand out.
The modeling industry gave her early financial independence. It also helped her make industry contacts that would be useful later in her acting career. Modeling taught her discipline and confidence, which helped when she stepped in front of a movie camera.
Her Big Break in Hollywood
Carey’s acting career had a major breakthrough in 1989 when she played Pam Bouvier in the James Bond film Licence to Kill. This was a huge moment for her. Bond movies reach audiences worldwide, and her role gave her instant recognition.
The movie’s success didn’t just boost her fame. It also brought in good money through residuals. James Bond films continue to air on television and streaming platforms, which means ongoing income for the actors involved.
After Licence to Kill, Carey appeared in several other well-known films like Sleepless in Seattle and Leaving Las Vegas. These roles added both prestige and paychecks to her growing career.
Joining Law & Order and Long-Term Earnings
One of the most financially rewarding periods of her career came in 1996 when she joined Law & Order as Assistant District Attorney Jamie Ross. She was part of the show for over 50 episodes.
Why does this matter for her net worth? Law & Order is a major franchise with episodes airing worldwide. It generates a lot of revenue through syndication, and the actors continue to earn from those deals long after filming ends.
Carey’s role also opened up chances to return for spin-offs and special episodes. All this contributed to a solid and regular stream of income, helping her reach that $12 million net worth.
A High-Profile Marriage That Made Headlines
Carey Lowell was married to actor Richard Gere from 2002 to 2016. The couple owned multiple properties, including a stunning $65 million estate in New York. When their marriage ended, it led to a well-publicized and financially significant divorce.
Though the exact terms of the settlement were kept private, it’s fair to say it influenced her financial situation in a positive way. High-value assets like luxury real estate and shared investments played a big role in the outcome.
Ceramic Art and New Income Sources
In recent years, Carey Lowell has shifted focus toward the arts, but in a different form. She now runs Humming Bird Ceramics, where she creates beautiful handmade pottery.
Some of her pieces are priced quite high, such as the Porcelain Triple Polypore Vase at $700 and the Porcelain Robot Vase for $900. Her ceramics are now being collected by art lovers and showcased at events.
She has also worked with jewelry designer Sidney Garber. Their joint line of luxury jewelry includes items that start at around $1,500. This proves that Carey has successfully moved into the luxury lifestyle market.
FAQs
Q: Is Carey Lowell still acting?
She rarely acts now. Instead, she focuses on her ceramics and creative projects.
Q: What is Humming Bird Ceramics?
It’s her personal brand under which she sells handmade ceramic art. The pieces are unique and attract both art collectors and home decor buyers.
Q: Does she make a living from ceramics?
While it’s not confirmed how much she earns from it, her art pieces are high-end and contribute to her ongoing income.
Q: Was Carey Lowell paid well on Law & Order?
Yes, she was. While exact numbers aren’t public, regular cast members on long-running shows often earn both upfront payments and residuals.
Q: Do actors still get paid for old episodes?
Yes. Shows like Law & Order are syndicated globally. This means ongoing earnings for actors, especially those who appeared in multiple episodes.
Her Legacy and Public Image
Carey Lowell has managed to stay out of unnecessary controversies. Her roles have often portrayed smart, strong women, and that’s how she’s viewed by fans as well.
She is admired for making smart moves throughout her career. From choosing steady roles to building a second career in the arts, Carey has shown it’s possible to succeed without chasing constant spotlight.
Her story is not about overnight success. It’s about steady growth, smart decisions, and adapting to life’s changes.
Final Thoughts
Carey Lowell’s net worth of $12 million in 2025 is well-deserved. It reflects her modeling success, her iconic roles in Hollywood, and her transition to a new phase in life with creative projects. She never relied on one single source of income. Instead, she built a strong foundation with many pillars—acting, modeling, business, and art.
She remains a great example of how to handle fame with grace and use it to create lasting financial security.