Gigi Perreau Net Worth 2025
Gigi Perreau at a Glance
- Net Worth (2025): $3–$5 million
- Birthdate: March 6, 1941
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, U.S.
- Profession: Actress, Teacher
- Nationality: American
- Major Achievements: Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Former VP of the Donna Reed Foundation
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What is Gigi Perreau’s Net Worth?
Gigi Perreau is an American actress with a net worth estimated between $3 million and $5 million as of 2025. Her wealth is the culmination of a prolific career that began in early childhood during the Golden Age of Hollywood, spanning over 70 films and numerous television appearances. Her financial standing reflects not only her earnings as a popular child star but also a lifetime of savvy financial management and continued work in the arts.
Early Life
Ghislaine Elizabeth Marie Thérèse Perreau-Saussine, known professionally as Gigi Perreau, was born on February 6, 1941, in Los Angeles, California. Her French-American heritage came from her father, Robert Perreau-Saussine, and her American mother, Eleanor Child Perreau-Saussine.
Her entry into show business was serendipitous. At just two years old, she was cast in the 1943 film Madame Curie after the director, Mervyn LeRoy, heard her speak French and thought she was a boy perfect for the role of Madame Curie’s daughter, Ève. This accidental start launched one of the most successful child acting careers of the 1940s and 50s.
Career
Perreau’s career is a remarkable story of longevity and adaptation, starting as a toddler in major studio films and evolving into television roles and a commitment to arts education.
The late 1940s cemented Perreau’s status as a bona fide star. She delivered memorable performances in films like The Master of Ballantrae (1953), starring Errol Flynn, and Shadow on the Wall (1950), where her portrayal of a traumatized child witness earned critical acclaim.
One of her most recognized roles was Linda in the 1956 film The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit, starring Gregory Peck and Jennifer Jones. Unlike many child actors, Perreau successfully transitioned to teenage and adult roles, appearing in popular television series throughout the 1960s. She had a recurring role as the daughter of the main characters in the sitcom The Betty Hutton Show (1959–1960).
Major Earnings & Achievements
During her peak years under the studio system, child actors like Gigi Perreau could command impressive salaries. While specific contract details are private, top-tier child stars in the 1950s could earn the equivalent of $75,000 to $150,000 per film in today’s money. With multiple film credits per year, her Gigi Perreau career earnings were substantial for the era.
Her contributions to the entertainment industry were formally recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6212 Hollywood Boulevard. This honor solidified her place in Hollywood history. Later in life, she became a respected acting coach, demonstrating her lifelong dedication to the craft. The Gigi Perreau assets accumulated over her long career have provided her with lasting financial security.
Personal Life
Gigi Perreau has been married twice. Her first marriage was to Emil Frank Gallo, a business executive, with whom she had two children: a son, Robert, and a daughter, Gina. Her second marriage was to Gene Harve deRuelle, a production manager and son of famed director Harve Foster. With deRuelle, she had two more children: a daughter, Danielle, and a son, Keith.
Beyond her acting career, Perreau has dedicated herself to education, earning a bachelor’s degree from Immaculate Heart College and becoming a respected drama teacher. She has also been actively involved with the Donna Reed Foundation for the Performing Arts, serving as a board member and vice president. Her life today is largely private, spent with her family in Southern California.
Real Estate
Like many established Hollywood figures, Perreau invested in California real estate. She has resided for many years in the San Fernando Valley. While specific details of her property portfolio are not public, it is understood that her real estate holdings form a significant part of her net worth. For decades, her primary residence has been a family home in Studio City, a location favored by entertainment industry professionals for its proximity to major studios.
Salary & Career Earnings Growth Chart
This table illustrates the estimated trajectory of Gigi Perreau’s earnings, reflecting her journey from a high-earning child star to a working television actress and educator. The figures are estimates based on industry standards for the respective eras.
| Mid-1940s Toddler / Child Actor | $100,000 – $250,000 — High demand following her debut in Madame Curie. |
| Early 1950s A-List Child Star | $300,000 – $500,000+ — Peak film career; starring roles in multiple major studio productions. |
| Late 1950s Teen Actress | $150,000 – $300,000 — Successful transition to television; starring role in The Betty Hutton Show. |
| 1960s – 1970s Guest TV Actress / Voiceover | $50,000 – $100,000 — Consistent work in popular shows like The Fugitive and Perry Mason. |
| 1980s – Present Educator / Arts Advocate | N/A (Focus on teaching/foundation work) — Income supplemented by residuals, investments, and SAG pension. |
FAQ
Who is Gigi Perreau related to?
Gigi Perreau is the older sister of actor Peter Miles (born Gerald Perreau-Saussine) and actress Janine Perreau. Her family has deep roots in the entertainment industry.
What is Gigi Perreau doing now?
Today, Gigi Perreau is largely retired from acting but remains an active figure in the arts community. She has focused on teaching drama and has been heavily involved with organizations like the Donna Reed Foundation.
How old is Gigi Perreau?
Born on February 6, 1941, Gigi Perreau is 84 years old as of 2025.
Was Gigi Perreau in The Twilight Zone?
No, Gigi Perreau did not appear in The Twilight Zone. However, she had guest roles in many other classic television series of that era, including Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Perry Mason, and Rawhide.
