Ola Ray’s journey from modeling to starring in one of the most iconic music videos of all time, Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” is a fascinating tale of ambition, fame, and financial growth. With a net worth of $500,000, Ray’s career encompasses more than just her memorable role; it extends to acting and legal battles over royalties that have shaped her path in the entertainment industry.
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Table of Contents
Who is Ola Ray?
Ola Ray is an American model and actress, best known for her role as Michael Jackson’s girlfriend in the groundbreaking “Thriller” music video. Beyond “Thriller,” she has a rich portfolio that includes modeling for Playboy and acting in various films and television shows.
Early Life
Born on August 26, 1960, in St. Louis, Missouri, Ola Ray’s early years were marked by a significant move to Tokyo, Japan, where she lived with her family on an Air Force base. This period of her life was crucial in developing her talents and interests in performance and modeling.
Personal Life
Ray’s narrative is enriched by her experiences both on and off the screen. In 1995, she became a mother to her daughter, Iam. Her personal stories and challenges, including her battles for fair compensation from the “Thriller” video, are chronicled in her 2022 memoir, “The Thrill of It All.”
Career
Ola Ray’s career trajectory took her from the stages in Tokyo with her family’s song and dance group, The Puppets, to the pages of Playboy as Playmate of the Month in June 1980. Her acting career includes roles in films such as “48 Hrs.” and “Beverly Hills Cop II,” showcasing her versatility as a performer.
Ola Ray Net Worth
Ola Ray’s net worth stands at $500,000. This figure is a culmination of her earnings from her modeling career, acting roles, and the settlement received from the Michael Jackson estate over “Thriller” royalties.
Thriller
Ray’s role in “Thriller” propelled her to international fame, casting her as the unforgettable love interest in a music video that blended horror and dance in unprecedented ways. This role remains her most iconic contribution to pop culture.
How Much Did It Cost to Make Thriller?
The “Thriller” music video, directed by John Landis, was a pioneering project with a production budget of $900,000. It set a new standard for music video production values and storytelling, contributing to its lasting legacy.
After Thriller
Following her appearance in “Thriller,” Ray continued to act in various movies and TV shows, including “Fear City” and appearances in popular series like “Cheers.” However, her career faced challenges, and she stepped back from the spotlight, only to return with roles in recent films like “Shooting Heroin.”
Conclusion
Ola Ray’s narrative is one of resilience and determination. Despite the ups and downs of her career and legal battles, she remains a significant figure in entertainment history. Her contribution to the “Thriller” music video and her continued work in acting have secured her a place in the annals of pop culture.
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FAQs about Ola Ray
- How did Ola Ray become famous?
- Ola Ray became famous for her role in Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” music video, which catapulted her into the spotlight.
- What was Ola Ray’s first acting role?
- Her debut acting role was in the 1981 film “Body and Soul.”
- Has Ola Ray received royalties from “Thriller”?
- Yes, after a legal battle, Ray sued Michael Jackson’s estate and settled in 2012 for $75,000 over unpaid “Thriller” royalties.
- What other notable films has Ola Ray appeared in?
- Ray has appeared in “48 Hrs.,” “The Man Who Loved Women,” “Beverly Hills Cop II,” among others.
- What does Ola Ray do now?
- Ola Ray has continued to act, with recent roles in “It Wants Blood!” and “Shooting Heroin.” She also published a memoir, “The Thrill of It All,” detailing her life and career.
