Date of Birth: August 31, 1925
Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Date of Death: September 25, 2004
Biography
Marvin Davis was an American industrialist and philanthropist born on August 31, 1925, in Newark, New Jersey. He was best known as the chairman of Davis Petroleum and as a significant figure in the entertainment industry, having owned 20th Century Fox. Davis began his career in the oil industry, following in the footsteps of his father, Jack Davis, who founded the Davis Oil Company. Under Marvin’s leadership, the company expanded significantly and diversified into real estate and entertainment. In the 1980s, Marvin Davis made headlines when he purchased 20th Century Fox for $720 million. He later sold the studio to Rupert Murdoch’s News Corporation for a substantial profit. Beyond his business ventures, Davis was a well-known philanthropist, contributing generously to medical research, education, and various charities. He was married to Barbara Levine Davis, and together they raised five children. Marvin Davis passed away on September 25, 2004, in Beverly Hills, California, leaving behind a legacy of business acumen and philanthropy.
5 Interesting Facts about Marvin Davis
1. Marvin Davis purchased 20th Century Fox in 1981 for $720 million.
2. He was known for his philanthropy, donating millions to medical research and education.
3. Davis was once considered one of the richest men in America, with a net worth peaking at over $5.8 billion.
4. He owned the Beverly Hills Hotel and the Pebble Beach Golf Links at different points in his career.
5. Davis was known for his close friendships with celebrities, including Frank Sinatra and Elizabeth Taylor.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Marvin Davis
1. “Business is a combination of war and sport.”
2. “I believe in giving back to the community that has given me so much.”
3. “Success in business requires training, discipline and hard work.”
4. “Every business decision should be made with the future in mind.”
5. “Philanthropy isn’t just about writing checks; it’s about making a difference.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Marvin Davis’s highest net worth achieved was over $5.8 billion.
Children
Marvin Davis and his wife, Barbara Davis, had five children: Patricia Ann Davis Raynes, John Davis, Nancy Davis Rickel, Gregg Davis, and Dana Davis.
Relevant Links
1. [Marvin Davis Biography on Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marvin_Davis
2. [Forbes Profile on Marvin Davis](https://www.forbes.com/profile/marvin-davis/
