Vera Miles net worth is estimated at $8 million, a reflection of her illustrious career in Hollywood. Known for her iconic roles in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho and Psycho II, Vera became a prominent figure in the film industry.
With over 150 acting credits to her name, her contributions spanned various genres, from psychological thrillers to westerns. Despite stepping back from the public eye in recent years, her legacy remains influential in Hollywood.
Vera’s net worth is not only the result of her acting but also of her lasting impact on the entertainment world, particularly through her memorable performances and collaborations with legendary filmmakers.
Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Vera June Miles |
| Date of Birth | August 23, 1929 |
| Place of Birth | Boise City, Oklahoma, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actress |
| Famous For | Psycho, Psycho II, Hitchcock collaborations |
| Height | 5’3″ (160 cm) |
| Net Worth | $8 million (estimated) |
| Notable Roles | Lila Crane in Psycho and Psycho II |
| Awards & Honors | Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, 1960 |
| Marriages | Married four times (Bob Miles, Gordon Scott, Keith Larsen, Robert Jones) |
| Children | 4 (Kelley Miles, Eric Larsen, Debra Miles, Michael Scott) |
| Retirement | Semi-retired, lives privately in Palm Desert, California |
| Career Span | 1951 – 1983 |
| Known For | Collaborations with Alfred Hitchcock in thrillers like Psycho |
| Legacy | Considered a key figure in psychological thrillers and suspense films |
Early Life and Family
Vera Miles was born into a humble family to Thomas and Bernice Miles. She grew up with three siblings in Pratt, Kansas, before the family moved to Wichita, where she attended Wichita North High School.
During her high school years, she worked as a typist at Western Union to support herself. After high school, Vera entered beauty pageants, and in 1948, she was crowned Miss Kansas.
Her experience in pageants opened doors to acting opportunities, and her entry into the world of Hollywood was soon secured. This marked the beginning of what would become a legendary career in film.
The Move to Hollywood
In the early 1950s, Vera Miles made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. Initially, she took on small roles in films, which helped her build her reputation in the industry.
Her breakout came with her appearance in The Rose Bowl Story and Tarzan’s Hidden Jungle. These roles showcased her potential, and Vera began to attract attention from major Hollywood studios.
Her early experiences in these films allowed her to hone her craft and prepared her for the bigger opportunities that would come, including her famous collaboration with Alfred Hitchcock.
Breakthrough with Alfred Hitchcock
Vera Miles’ career truly skyrocketed in 1957 when Alfred Hitchcock signed her to a five-year contract. Hitchcock was known for selecting strong, complex women for his thrillers, and Vera fit the bill perfectly.
Her most famous role came in 1960 when she portrayed Lila Crane in Psycho, Hitchcock’s groundbreaking psychological thriller. Her portrayal of a determined sister searching for her missing sibling earned critical acclaim and solidified her as a rising star.
The film became an iconic piece of cinema, and her performance was praised for its depth and emotional intensity, securing her place in film history.
Success in Psycho II
After more than two decades, Vera Miles returned to reprise her role as Lila Crane in Psycho II (1983). Despite the long gap since the first film, she seamlessly returned to her character, bringing a sense of continuity to the franchise.
Psycho II was both a nostalgic continuation of the original and a successful film in its own right. The movie’s success showcased how Vera’s enduring talent allowed her to stay relevant in an ever-changing Hollywood.
Fans of the original film were thrilled to see her reprise her role, and critics appreciated her ability to reinvigorate the character.
Versatility in Film Roles
While Vera Miles is most remembered for her work with Alfred Hitchcock, her acting range was vast. She was equally adept in westerns, dramas, and thrillers, proving her versatility.
In The Searchers (1956), she portrayed the strong, resilient Laurie Jorgensen, a role that earned her praise for her ability to handle emotionally complex characters.
She also appeared in films like 23 Paces to Baker Street (1956) and Autumn Leaves (1956), demonstrating her skill in portraying a wide variety of roles. Vera’s ability to transition between genres allowed her to build a diverse and successful career.
Achieving Hollywood Recognition
Vera Miles’ contributions to Hollywood were recognized with several accolades throughout her career. She was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960, cementing her place among the greats of the industry.
Though her career was not defined by numerous awards, her performances were consistently praised, earning her a reputation as a talented and reliable actress. Vera’s work continues to be admired by fans and filmmakers alike.
Her contributions to the psychological thriller genre, particularly through Psycho, remain a significant part of her enduring legacy in the entertainment world.
Personal Life Marriages and Family
Vera Miles had four marriages during her lifetime. Her first marriage was to Bob Miles in 1948, with whom she had two adopted daughters. They divorced in 1954, and shortly after, Vera married actor Gordon Scott, who co-starred with her in Tarzan’s Hidden Jungle.
Their marriage lasted only four years before ending in 1960. In 1960, she married actor Keith Larsen, and they remained together for over a decade before divorcing in 1971.
Her final marriage was to Robert Jones from 1973 to 1975. Despite her personal ups and downs, Vera remained dedicated to her acting career throughout her life.
Life After Hollywood
In the later years of her life, Vera Miles became increasingly reclusive, retreating from the public eye. She settled in Palm Desert, California, where she chose to live a quieter, more private life.
Vera was known for declining many interview requests, opting instead for a peaceful existence away from the media. Though she avoided public appearances, her legacy in Hollywood remains strong, as her work continues to be celebrated by film lovers and professionals.
Her choice to live privately reflects her desire to enjoy a life outside the spotlight after a long and successful career.
Influence on Future Generations
Vera Miles’ career has had a lasting influence on future generations of actors and filmmakers, particularly in the genre of psychological thrillers. Her portrayal of Lila Crane in Psycho set a high standard for strong female characters in suspenseful, dramatic films.
Directors and actors continue to study her performances, particularly her work with Alfred Hitchcock. Miles’ ability to blend vulnerability with strength is often cited as an important example of acting in suspenseful genres.
Her influence extends beyond her own films, impacting how women are portrayed in thrillers and horror films in contemporary cinema.
Legacy and Impact on Film
Vera Miles’ legacy in film is undeniable. Her performances, especially in Psycho, have influenced the way psychological thrillers are made and the roles women play in these films.
Hitchcock’s films, in which Vera featured prominently, helped define suspense and horror for a generation of filmmakers. Her ability to bring depth and complexity to her roles made her an unforgettable presence in every film she appeared in.
Today, Vera Miles is remembered not just for her iconic performances but also for her contributions to the genres she helped define, making her an integral part of cinematic history.
Awards and Honors
While Vera Miles did not win as many awards as some of her peers, she received numerous honors for her contribution to the entertainment industry.
One of the most notable recognitions was her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960. She was also awarded the Western Heritage Award in 1963 for her role in The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, a classic western film.
These awards, while not as frequent as some other actors, reflect the respect and admiration she earned from both her peers and fans throughout her career.
Vera Miles Today
Vera Miles, now in her 90s, lives a quiet life in Palm Desert, California, away from the public eye. She rarely makes public appearances and has declined many interview offers over the years.
Despite her reclusive nature, her legacy in the world of cinema remains strong. Fans and filmmakers continue to celebrate her work, particularly her unforgettable role in Psycho.
Though Vera may not be active in the industry anymore, the impact of her performances continues to resonate, ensuring that she will always be remembered as one of Hollywood’s greats.
Conclusion
Vera Miles net worth, estimated at $8 million, is a testament to her successful and impactful career in Hollywood. From her iconic roles in Psycho and Psycho II to her collaborations with Alfred Hitchcock, she left an indelible mark on the film industry.
Despite her reclusive nature in recent years, her legacy continues to resonate through her diverse roles and contributions to cinema. Vera Miles’ journey from a small-town girl to a Hollywood star is an inspiring story of talent, perseverance, and passion for acting.
FAQs
Who is Vera Miles’ husband?
Vera Miles was married four times. Her husbands were Bob Miles, Gordon Scott, Keith Larsen, and Robert Jones.
What is the net worth of Vera Therapeutics?
As of 2024, Vera Therapeutics’ net worth is not directly tied to Vera Miles. Vera Miles’ net worth is approximately $8 million.
What happened to Vera Miles?
Vera Miles retired from acting and now lives a private life in Palm Desert, California, away from the public eye.
How many movies was Vera Miles in with John Wayne?
Vera Miles appeared in two films with John Wayne: The Searchers (1956) and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962).
Was Vera Miles a smoker?
There is no confirmed information about Vera Miles being a smoker during her lifetime.
Was Vera Miles a beauty queen?
Yes, Vera Miles was crowned Miss Kansas in 1948 and was a runner-up in the Miss America pageant.
