Aaron Spelling Biography: Age, Wife, Children, Net Worth, Movies & TV Shows, Death

Aaron Spelling, was a prolific American film and television producer, writer, and actor, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in television history, responsible for producing iconic shows like Beverly Hills, 90210, Dynasty, and Charlie’s Angels.

His career, spanning over four decades, revolutionized primetime dramas and soaps, earning him a reputation for crafting glamorous, escapist entertainment that defined pop culture.

Spelling’s limited acting roles, including parts in Dragnet and I Love Lucy, complemented his behind-the-scenes dominance, producing over 200 series and TV movies that shaped network television.

Profile

• Full Name: Aaron Spelling
• Stage Name: Aaron Spelling
• Born: 22 April 1923
• Died: 23 June 2006
• Age: 83 years old
• Birthplace: Dallas, Texas, USA
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Producer, Writer, Actor
• Height: 1.70m
• Parents: David Spelling and Pearl Spelling
• Siblings: Max Spelling, Mildred Spelling, Sam Spelling, Becky Spelling
• Spouse: Carolyn Jones (m. 1953–1964), Candy Spelling (m. 1968–2006)
• Girlfriends: None
• Children: Tori Spelling, Randy Spelling
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $600 million

Early Life and Education

Aaron Spelling was born on April 22, 1923, in Dallas, Texas, to David Spelling, a furniture store clerk, and Pearl Spelling, a homemaker, both Jewish immigrants from Poland.

He grew up in a working-class family with four siblings: brothers Max, Sam, and sisters Mildred and Becky.

Facing antisemitism and bullying as a child, he developed a vivid imagination that fueled his storytelling.

After serving in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II, he attended Southern Methodist University, earning a journalism degree in 1945.

Spelling was of Ashkenazi Jewish descent and maintained private religious beliefs.

Career

Aaron Spelling began his career in the 1950s as an actor, landing small roles in series like Dragnet (1953) and I Love Lucy (1955), but quickly pivoted to writing and producing after moving to Los Angeles.

His early writing credits included scripts for Zane Grey Theatre and Playhouse 90, where his knack for compelling narratives caught attention.

By 1959, he formed Aaron Spelling Productions, launching Johnny Ringo, his first produced series.

His initial success came with The Mod Squad (1968–1973), a groundbreaking show about undercover cops that blended social issues with action, establishing his flair for youth-driven stories and earning him industry clout.

Spelling’s golden era unfolded in the 1970s and 1980s with a string of hits through Spelling Television, including The Love Boat (1977–1986), Charlie’s Angels (1976–1981), and Dynasty (1981–1989), which defined primetime glamour and attracted massive audiences.

His partnership with ABC and later other networks produced cultural touchstones like Fantasy Island and Hart to Hart.

In the 1990s, Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990–2000) and Melrose Place (1992–1999) redefined teen and young adult dramas, launching stars like Jennie Garth and Luke Perry.

His ability to blend soap opera drama with relatable themes revolutionized serialized storytelling, earning him a 2005 Producers Guild Lifetime Achievement Award.

Aaron Spelling’s legacy endures through over 3,000 hours of television, including late-career hits like 7th Heaven (1996–2007) and Charmed (1998–2006), which introduced family-friendly and supernatural genres to new generations.

His final projects included the TV movie Split Decision and executive producing Clubhouse in 2005.

With a record for producing more TV hours than anyone in history, Spelling’s work shaped network programming, influencing modern showrunners and leaving an indelible mark on entertainment through escapist yet emotionally resonant stories.

Social Media

Aaron Spelling does not have any active social media accounts.

Personal Life

Aaron Spelling married actress Carolyn Jones in 1953, divorcing in 1964, before marrying Candy Spelling in 1968, with whom he remained until his death in 2006.

They had two children, Tori Spelling (born 1973) and Randy Spelling (born 1978).

Despite his wealth and fame, Spelling lived modestly, maintaining close ties with his children, who pursued acting, and his wife, who managed their Holmby Hills mansion, The Manor.

Aaron Spelling died on June 23, 2006, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 83, from complications following a stroke he suffered.

Filmography

• Dragnet (1953)
• I Love Lucy (1955)
• The Mod Squad (1968–1973)
• Charlie’s Angels (1976–1981)
• The Love Boat (1977–1986)
• Dynasty (1981–1989)
• Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990–2000)
• Melrose Place (1992–1999)
• 7th Heaven (1996–2007)
• Charmed (1998–2006)

Net Worth

Aaron Spelling had an estimated net worth of $600 million at the time of his death.

His wealth stemmed from producing iconic series like Beverly Hills, 90210, Dynasty, and Charlie’s Angels, which generated substantial syndication royalties and licensing deals.

His production company’s extensive catalog, film projects, and real estate holdings, including the 123-room The Manor, significantly contributed to his financial legacy.