A well-known American actress, Paula Prentiss is known for her beauty and incredible acting talent. She rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s, starring in several successful films and TV shows. One of her most memorable roles was in the 1960 movie Where the Boys Are. Besides that, she has appeared in other iconic films like The Stepford Wives, and Man’s Favourite Sport.
Outside films, Prentiss gained fame on television, especially for her role in the CBS sitcom He & She which aired from 1967 to 1968. Even though Paula Prentiss is past her prime, she remains an unforgettable figure in Hollywood. If you are eager to find out more about her life and career story, give this post a read.
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Early Life
Paula Prentiss was born on 4th March 1938, in San Antonio, Texas, to parents Thomas J. Ragusa and Paulene. She is the eldest child in her family and has a sister named Ann Prentiss. Both of the sisters were raised as Catholics.
As far as her education is concerned, Prentiss completed her schooling at Lamar High School. Later she enrolled at Northwestern University to study drama. During her time at the university, she met her future husband, Richard Benjamin.
Beginning of Career
Paula Prentiss started her acting career in the 1960s. Due to her tall height and natural beauty, she stood out from other actresses. She got her first big break when she signed a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), a well-known Hollywood studio.
Her first major role came in Where the Boys Are, released in 1960. The film turned out to be a huge success, making Prentiss a popular name. She was praised for her acting skills and energy on screen. Needless to say, this opened doors for more leading roles in Hollywood.
Shot to Fame
After the success of Where the Boys Are, Paula Prentiss starred in several hit movies. Her roles in films like Man’s Favourite Sport? and What’s New Pussycat? Made her a household name.
In 1967, she was cast alongside her husband in the popular sitcom He & She. This got her an Emmy nomination for the Best Performance by an Actress in a Comedy.
Giving hits after hits, Prentiss continued to appear in diverse roles. Her last project came in 2016 when she appeared in the film I Am The Pretty Things That Lives In the House.
Relationship
While studying at Northwestern University, Paula Prentiss met her future husband, Richard Benjamin. The two fell in love and got married in 1961. The two have been together since then and share two children.
Major Source of Income and Net Worth
As of 2025, Paula Prentiss’ net worth is reported to be around $8 million. She accumulated this wealth over decades. Her primary source of income comes from her acting career. As one of the most sought-after actresses of her time, she earned good pay for her performances. Her success in both films and TV shows allowed her to maintain a steady income.
