Truman Capote Net Worth and Biography
Truman Capote was a celebrated American author, playwright, screenwriter, and actor. He was known for his distinctive writing style that blended fiction and journalism. Capote created some of the most iconic literary works of the 20th century. His sharp intellect, unique voice, and complex personality made him a prominent figure in both the literary and social scenes of his time. Some of his best-known pieces include Breakfast at Tiffany’s and In Cold Blood.
Truman Capote Biography Table
Below is a detailed biography table for Truman Capote:
Field | Information |
Full Name | Truman Streckfus Persons |
Professional Name | Truman Capote |
Date of Birth | September 30, 1924 |
Place of Birth | New Orleans, Louisiana, USA |
Date of Death | August 25, 1984 |
Age at Death | 59 years |
Nationality | American |
Profession | Writer, Playwright, Screenwriter, Actor |
Famous Works | Breakfast at Tiffany’s, In Cold Blood |
Awards | Edgar Award, O. Henry Award |
Net Worth (1984) | $2 million |
Adjusted Net Worth (Today) | Around $10 million |
Height | 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) |
Weight | Around 59 kg (130 lbs) |
Known For | Literary contributions, celebrity lifestyle |
Social Media | None (Pre-internet era) |
What is Truman Capote Net Worth?
At the time of his death in 1984, Truman Capote net worth was estimated to be about $2 million. Adjusted for inflation, Truman Capote net worth would be roughly $10 million today. His income came from various sources:
- Major book royalties, especially from In Cold Blood and Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
- Film and television rights for adaptations of his works.
- High-paying magazine articles and interviews.
- Appearances on television shows.
Despite his success, Truman Capote net worth did not grow exponentially later in life because of his extravagant lifestyle and personal challenges.
Why Truman Capote Famous?
Truman Capote became famous because of his brilliant writing style and his larger-than-life personality. His ability to weave together fact and fiction made him a pioneer of the “non-fiction novel.” His work In Cold Blood is often credited as the first example of this genre. Besides his literary talents, Capote was a regular at celebrity parties and social events. His sharp wit and flamboyant character kept him in the public eye throughout his life.
What is Truman Capote Age?
Truman Capote was born on September 30, 1924, and died on August 25, 1984. He passed away just a month shy of his 60th birthday. Thus, he was 59 years old at the time of his death.
Truman Capote Biography
Early Life
Truman Capote was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. His parents divorced when he was very young. As a result, Capote spent much of his early life bouncing between relatives in different southern towns. His lonely and unstable childhood would later become the foundation for many of his emotionally powerful stories. From a young age, he showed a passion for writing, often crafting stories to escape his troubled surroundings.
Education
Truman Capote attended several prestigious schools, including the Trinity School and St. Joseph Military Academy. However, he never completed college. Instead, he began working at The New Yorker at the age of 17. Although he started as a copyboy, his talent soon led him to bigger opportunities. His early writings for magazines brought him critical acclaim.

Family
Capote was born to Archulus Persons and Lillie Mae Faulk. His mother later remarried, and Capote adopted the surname of his stepfather, Joseph Capote. His relationships with his family were complex. His bond with his mother was both affectionate and strained. Capote never married and did not have children. He considered his friends and literary community as his extended family.
Personal Life
Truman Capote lived openly as a gay man at a time when it was considered controversial. His long-term relationship with Jack Dunphy, a fellow writer, lasted more than three decades. The couple maintained separate homes but stayed deeply connected throughout their lives. Capote’s openness about his sexuality broke barriers and made him a pioneer for future generations.
Lifestyle
Capote lived an extravagant lifestyle, attending high-profile parties and mingling with celebrities. He loved luxury and was often seen in designer clothing and expensive locations. His “Black and White Ball” in 1966 is still considered one of the most glamorous parties in American history. However, his spending habits and reliance on drugs and alcohol strained his finances, impacting Truman Capote net worth in later years.
Truman Capote Height and Weight
Truman Capote was known for his small stature and distinctive voice. Here are his physical details:
- Height: 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm)
- Weight: Around 130 pounds (59 kg)
His small frame made him instantly recognizable and added to his unique public image.
Truman Capote Media Presence
Although Capote lived before the rise of social media, he had a significant media presence during his life. He frequently appeared on popular TV talk shows like The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Magazines like Vogue, Esquire, and The New Yorker often featured him in articles and interviews. Today, Capote has fan pages, biographies, and documentary films that keep his legacy alive.
- Instagram: No official account (fan pages exist)
- Twitter: No official account
- Facebook: No official page
His influence remains strong through literary communities and film adaptations of his works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Truman Capote net worth today?
A: Adjusted for today’s value, Truman Capote net worth would be about $10 million.
Q: How did Truman Capote earn his money?
A: He earned money through book sales, film rights, television appearances, and high-profile magazine articles.
Q: What were Truman Capote’s most successful works?
A: His most famous works are In Cold Blood and Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Q: How old was Truman Capote when he died?
A: Truman Capote was 59 years old at the time of his death.
Q: Did Truman Capote marry?
A: No, but he had a long-term relationship with Jack Dunphy.
Conclusion
Truman Capote was not only a masterful writer but also a cultural icon. His work, personality, and public appearances made him unforgettable. Although he lived lavishly, Truman Capote net worth reflects the incredible success he achieved during his lifetime.
Today, his legacy continues through books, films, and the countless writers he has inspired. Truman Capote net worth may measure his financial success, but his true wealth lies in the stories and characters he left behind. His life is a reminder that creativity, resilience, and authenticity can create a lasting impact on the world.