Telma Hopkins is a celebrated American actress and singer who has captivated audiences for decades with her exceptional talent and charming personality. With a career that spans music, television, and film, she has earned a reputation as one of the most versatile and respected entertainers in the industry. Known for her powerful vocals as part of the pop group Tony Orlando and Dawn and her memorable roles in popular sitcoms like Family Matters and Gimme a Break!, Hopkins has left an indelible mark on the entertainment world.
Over the years, she has not only built a successful career but also amassed a substantial net worth through her diverse ventures. Her ability to transition seamlessly from music to acting has allowed her to maintain longevity in a competitive field where many careers are short-lived. Telma’s financial success is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and ongoing evolution as an artist.
Fans are curious about how much this iconic star is worth today, especially considering her decades of contribution to TV shows, movies, and music. Beyond her professional achievements, she has also been admired for her philanthropy, advocacy work, and the way she has balanced her personal life with her public persona.
In this in-depth article, we will delve into Telma Hopkins’s net worth, her early beginnings, personal life, career achievements, primary income sources, luxurious lifestyle, hobbies, and her prospects. By the end, you’ll have a complete picture of the woman behind the fame, her journey to financial stability, and her ongoing impact in the entertainment industry.
Who Is Telma Hopkins?
Telma Louise Hopkins is an American actress, singer, and voice artist best known for her work in both music and television. Born on October 28, 1948, in Louisville, Kentucky, and raised in Highland Park, Michigan, Hopkins first rose to fame as a member of Tony Orlando and Dawn. This musical group delivered several chart-topping hits in the 1970s.
Her magnetic screen presence soon led her to acting, and she became a familiar face in television sitcoms throughout the 1980s and 1990s. She portrayed Rachel Crawford in the beloved sitcom Family Matters and Addy Wilson in Gimme a Break!. She also had recurring roles in Half & Half, Are We There Yet?, and The Young and the Restless.
Hopkins is known not only for her talent but also for her professionalism and ability to adapt to various entertainment formats. This adaptability has helped her maintain a consistent career for over five decades.
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Telma Louise Hopkins |
| Date of Birth | October 28, 1948 |
| Birthplace | Louisville, Kentucky, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) |
| Weight | 65 kg (143 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Body Type | Average |
| Profession | Actress, Singer, Voice Artist |
| Notable Works | Family Matters, Tony Orlando and Dawn, Gimme a Break! |
| Net Worth (2025) | $6 million (estimated) |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| Children | 1 son |
| Years Active | 1967 – Present |
Early Life and Background

Telma Hopkins was born in Louisville, Kentucky, but moved to Highland Park, Michigan, at an early age. Growing up in a close-knit family, she was introduced to music in church choirs, which helped her develop her vocal skills.
During her teenage years, Hopkins performed as a background singer for various Detroit-based recording artists. The rich musical culture of Detroit in the 1960s and 1970s provided her with opportunities to collaborate with legendary musicians.
Her early exposure to Motown’s soulful sounds laid the foundation for her future music career. In the early 1970s, she joined Tony Orlando and Dawn, marking her official entry into the entertainment industry.
From there, her life took a turn toward acting, and she embraced television as a new platform to showcase her personality and charisma. Her upbringing instilled in her a strong work ethic, which would later help her navigate the highs and lows of the entertainment industry.
Personal Life and Relationships
Telma Hopkins has been known for keeping her personal life private, preferring to let her work speak for itself. However, it is known that she was previously married, though she has not disclosed extensive details about her marriage.
She is the proud mother of one son, whom she has largely kept out of the spotlight to protect his privacy. Despite her busy career, she has always prioritized her role as a mother.
Hopkins is also actively involved in charity work, supporting organizations focused on children’s welfare, education, and community development. She has often said that giving back is one of the most fulfilling parts of her life.
Her relationships with her co-stars have also been warm and professional, often leading to lifelong friendships. She is respected not only for her acting skills but also for her kindness and humility.
Career and Achievements
Telma Hopkins began her career as a backup singer for legendary Detroit artists, including Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops, and Isaac Hayes. Her big break came in the early 1970s when she joined the pop group Tony Orlando and Dawn.
Some highlights of her music and acting career include:
- Music Success with Tony Orlando and Dawn – Multiple hit singles such as Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree and Knock Three Times.
- Television Breakthrough – Role as Addy Wilson in Gimme a Break! (1983–1987).
- Iconic Role in Family Matters – Played Rachel Crawford, a fan-favorite character in the hit ’90s sitcom.
- Film and Voice Work – Appeared in movies like Trancers and provided voices for animated series.
- Soap Opera Appearances – Recurring role on The Young and the Restless.
Her ability to stay relevant across decades is a testament to her versatility. She has worked in TV shows, movies, music, and voice acting, making her one of the most multi-talented stars in Hollywood.
Net Worth Overview

Telma Hopkins has accumulated wealth from multiple streams, including acting, singing, and endorsements. Her consistency in landing roles and her earlier music royalties have ensured a steady income over the years.
| Year | Net Worth | Monthly Income | Annual Income |
| 2021 | $4.5 million | $40,000 | $480,000 |
| 2022 | $5.0 million | $42,000 | $504,000 |
| 2023 | $5.4 million | $45,000 | $540,000 |
| 2024 | $5.7 million | $47,500 | $570,000 |
| 2025 | $6.0 million | $50,000 | $600,000 |
Her net worth is expected to grow further with future acting roles, royalties from her past music, and potential production projects.
Major Sources of Income
- Television Roles – Sitcoms, recurring characters, and guest appearances.
- Music Royalties – Earnings from Tony Orlando and Dawn hits.
- Film Roles – Both leading and supporting roles in movies.
- Voice Acting – Contributions to animated shows and films.
- Brand Endorsements – Collaborations with brands for campaigns.
- Public Appearances – Event hosting, interviews, and reunions.
Telma Hopkins’s Luxurious Lifestyle

- Real Estate – Owns a comfortable and stylish home in Los Angeles.
- Travel – Frequently travels for leisure and work.
- Fashion – Known for wearing elegant and timeless outfits.
- Charity Involvement – Regularly donates to causes close to her heart.
- Art & Culture – Enjoys attending theater productions and art shows.
Hobbies and Fun Facts
- Cooking Enthusiast – Loves experimenting with new recipes and exploring culinary options.
- Gardening – Maintains a lush home garden.
- Music Collector – Keeps vintage vinyl records from her career era.
- Animal Lover – Has adopted pets over the years.
- Reading – Enjoys biographies and historical fiction.
- Charity Work – Participates in fundraising events.
Future Prospects
- Potential Return to Music – Possible reunion with Tony Orlando and Dawn.
- Film Roles – Exploring mature roles in dramas and comedies.
- Voice Work Expansion – More projects in animated productions.
- Autobiography – Plans for a memoir in the future.
Impact on Social Media
Telma Hopkins maintains a modest yet dedicated online presence. She engages with fans by sharing throwback photos, career updates, and information about her charitable causes. While not a heavy social media influencer, her legacy and continued fan engagement keep her relevant in the digital age.
| Platform | Link |
| Wikipedia | Click here |
| Click here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is Telma Hopkins’s net worth in 2025?
A: Around $6 million.
Q2: What TV shows is Telma Hopkins famous for?
A: Family Matters, Gimme a Break!, and Half & Half.
Q3: Was Telma Hopkins part of a music group?
A: Yes, Tony Orlando and Dawn.
Q4: Does Telma Hopkins have children?
A: Yes, she has one son.
Conclusion
Telma Hopkins has demonstrated that talent, hard work, and adaptability can lead to a long-lasting and successful career in entertainment. From her early music days to her sitcom fame and beyond, she has built a strong financial foundation and continues to inspire new generations. Her estimated net worth of $6 million in 2025 is a testament to her enduring appeal and professional excellence.
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