Sela Ward, a renowned American actress, model, and real estate investor, has built a legacy that spans multiple industries. From her breakthrough roles in popular TV series and movies to her successful investments in real estate, Sela Ward is truly an inspiring figure. This post delves into the many aspects of her life—from her early years in Meridian, Mississippi, to her current ventures in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Profile Summary
Sela Ward is not only an accomplished actress but also a savvy real estate investor and a highly respected figure in Hollywood. She was born on July 11, 1956, in Meridian, Mississippi, and quickly rose to fame through her captivating performances in TV shows and films. Over the years, Sela has amassed a fortune of approximately $100 million, thanks to her diverse career and smart investments.
Along with her husband, Howard Sherman, a successful private equity investor, Sela has created a life full of both luxury and financial stability. The couple are also proud parents to Austin Ward Sherman and Anabella Raye Sherman.
| Profile Summary | Details |
| Full Name | Sela Ann Ward |
| Date of Birth | July 11, 1956 |
| Place of Birth | Meridian, Mississippi, USA |
| Education | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art and Advertising from the University of Alabama (1977) |
| Height | 5 ft 7 in (170 cm) |
| Occupation | Actress, Producer |
| Notable TV Roles | – Teddy Reed in Sisters (1991–1996)- Lily Manning in Once and Again (1999–2002)- Stacy Warner in House (2005–2012)- Jo Danville in CSI: NY (2010–2013)- Dana Mosier in FBI (2018–2019) |
| Notable Film Roles | – The Fugitive (1993)- Gone Girl (2014)- Independence Day: Resurgence (2016) |
| Awards | – 2 Primetime Emmy Awards- Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Television Series Drama |
| Spouse | Howard Elliott Sherman (married May 23, 1992) |
| Children | Two: Austin Ward and Anabella Raye |
| Philanthropy | Founded Hope Village for Children, a group home for abused and neglected children in Mississippi. |
| Autobiography | Homesick: A Memoir (2002) |
What is Sela Ward’s Net Worth?
As of 2025, Sela Ward boasts a net worth of an impressive $100 million. Her wealth comes from several sources, including her decades-long career in Hollywood, her smart real estate investments, and various business ventures.
Breakdown of Wealth Sources:
- TV Shows: Ward is best known for her roles in iconic TV series like NBC’s “Sisters” and ABC’s “Once and Again”, where she won multiple Emmy Awards.
- Movies: She starred in high-profile films such as “The Fugitive” and “Gone Girl”, both of which contributed to her financial success.
- Real Estate: Alongside her husband, Ward has made savvy property investments, purchasing Bel Air estate for $3.8 million in 2003 and selling it for an incredible $28 million years later.
| Property Name | Purchase Price | Sale Price |
| Bel Air Estate | $3.8 million | $28 million |
| Soho Apartment, New York | $4.2 million | N/A |
These strategic real estate moves, alongside her acting career, continue to propel her wealth.
Early Life
Sela Ward’s early life set the foundation for the success she would later achieve in Hollywood. Born in Meridian, Mississippi, to loving parents, Sela was the youngest of five children. Her upbringing in a close-knit family provided her with the support and encouragement she needed to pursue her dreams.
Education and Early Interests:
- University of Alabama: Sela attended the University of Alabama, where she studied Fine Arts and Advertising.
- Chi Omega Sorority: While in college, Sela became an active member of the Chi Omega sorority.
- Extracurricular Activities: Sela’s early years were marked by her roles as Homecoming Queen and a cheerleader—achievements that highlight her natural leadership skills and charm.
Her time in Alabama shaped her drive and determination to make a name for herself in the world of entertainment.
Career
Sela Ward’s career trajectory is one of perseverance and talent. After moving to New York City to pursue modeling, she eventually made the transition to acting, which would define her career.
TV Career:
- NBC’s “Sisters”: Ward’s big break came in the 1990s when she starred in the popular drama “Sisters”. Her portrayal of the character Teddy Reed earned her two Emmy Awards.
- ABC’s “Once and Again”: Following her success on “Sisters,” she starred in the acclaimed ABC series “Once and Again”. This role won her another Emmy Award and a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Drama Series.
Film Career:
- The Fugitive: In 1993, Sela starred alongside Harrison Ford in the thriller “The Fugitive”, a film that grossed over $370 million globally.
- Gone Girl: One of her most notable film roles in recent years was her performance in “Gone Girl” (2014), where she played the mother of the main character.
Additional Ventures:
Aside from acting, Ward has ventured into real estate investing. Her business acumen, particularly in the luxury property market, has added to her already impressive career portfolio.
Relationships
Sela Ward’s personal life is a testament to the balance she has maintained between her professional and family commitments.
Marriage to Howard Sherman:
In 1992, Sela married Howard Sherman, a well-known private equity investor. The couple has remained incredibly supportive of each other, both in their personal lives and business endeavors. Their union has been a perfect blend of success in the entertainment industry and business world.
- Children: Sela and Howard are proud parents to Austin Ward Sherman and Anabella Raye Sherman.
Sela has often spoken about the importance of her family, stating that it is her foundation for success, allowing her to balance the demands of a high-profile career with personal fulfillment.
Real Estate
Real estate has become a significant part of Sela Ward’s wealth-building strategy. Along with her husband, she has strategically acquired and sold properties, including high-end residences in Bel Air and Soho, New York City.
Notable Properties:
- Bel Air Estate: This luxurious estate was bought in 2003 for $3.8 million. After significant appreciation in value, they sold it for $28 million, showcasing their sharp investment instincts.
- Soho Apartment: Another investment property is their Soho apartment in New York City, which they purchased for $4.2 million in 2016. This apartment boasts high ceilings, beautiful brick walls, and spectacular city views.
Real Estate Strategy:
The couple’s strategy focuses on:
- Buying undervalued properties in prime locations.
- Renovating and upgrading these homes to appeal to the high-end market.
- Selling for a significant profit after a few years.
This approach has contributed significantly to their wealth and secured their financial future.
FAQs
Who did Sela Ward marry?
Sela Ward married Howard Sherman, a private equity investor, in 1992.
Where does Sela Ward live?
Sela Ward currently resides in California, USA, but she previously owned a Soho apartment in New York City.
What is Sela Ward famous for?
Sela Ward is best known for her roles in NBC’s “Sisters” and ABC’s “Once and Again”. She also gained recognition for her roles in “The Fugitive” and “Gone Girl”.
Is Sela Ward retired?
No, Sela Ward is not retired. She continues to focus on selective acting projects and her family life.
Does Sela Ward have a daughter?
Yes, Sela Ward has a daughter, Anabella Raye Sherman.
Conclusion
Sela Ward is an incredibly versatile individual whose accomplishments span both the entertainment and real estate industries. With an impressive net worth of $100 million, she has proven that success in Hollywood and smart investment strategies can go hand in hand.
Her journey from Meridian, Mississippi to Hollywood stardom, and her savvy real estate decisions, serve as an inspiring reminder that talent, determination, and financial intelligence can lead to incredible success. Today, she continues to influence the world, balancing her thriving career with a fulfilling personal life alongside her husband, Howard Sherman, and their two children.
