The TV show Glee (2009–2015) hit the right notes musically and made a significant statement in fashion. Blending theatrical flair with high school archetypes, the show’s bold, character-driven style became a pop culture phenomenon.
From preppy chic to edgy glam, Glee inspired fans to express themselves through fashion on and off the stage. Below, we explore how the series helped shape a generation’s wardrobe through unforgettable style moments.
From the halls of William McKinley High School to center stage, the Glee cast captured our hearts with their musical talents and infectious energy.
This beloved musical comedy-drama took the world by storm over a decade ago, leaving fans craving for more until its final bow in 2015.
The original cast of Glee poses with a show choir trophy in the choir room, capturing the vibrant spirit and camaraderie of the beloved musical comedy-drama that ran from 2009 to 2015 (Credit: Fox)
But what has become of the stars who once graced our screens as members of New Directions?
Let’s uncover the net worth of the Glee cast and explore where life has taken them since the show’s end, shedding light on their financial successes and the exciting projects that have shaped their careers.
Harry Shum Jr.: 5’11” Dancer Known for Retro Street Style and Sleek Sneakers
Grey’s Anatomy star Harry Shum Jr. portrayed Mike Chang, leaving an indelible mark as a character who evolved from a background actor to a prominent figure within the New Directions, showcasing his exceptional dancing abilities.
Harry Shum Jr. stepped out in a light beige suit paired with a colorful zigzag-patterned shirt and crisp white sneakers at PaleyFest, blending casual flair with retro sophistication (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images)
During his time on Glee, Harry was a leading cast member for seasons 3 and 4, transitioning to a recurring cast member for the remainder of the series. His role on the show contributed to his accumulated wealth of $14 million.
Standing at 5 feet 11 inches (180.3 cm), the Costa Rican-American actor has built an impressive résumé beyond his role as Mike Chang. Harry Shum Jr. is widely recognized for standout performances in films such as Crazy Rich Asians, Step Up 2: The Streets, and Revenge of the Green Dragons. He has also made notable appearances on television, including The Legion of Extraordinary Dancers, Tell Me a Story, and Shadowhunters, where he showcased both his acting range and dance background.
Lea Michele: 5’2″ Broadway Starlet in Floral Gowns and Height-Boosting Heels
Lea Michele is known for her role as the ambitious and spotlight-hungry Rachel Berry in Glee. Her character was a driving force behind the formation of the New Directions, and her unwavering pursuit of Broadway stardom was a central theme throughout the show.
Lea Michele brightened the Glee series premiere in Santa Monica on May 11, 2009, wearing a vibrant cobalt blue mini dress paired with matching platform heels that elongated her petite 5’2″ frame (Credit: Andy Fossum / Startraksphoto)
As a series regular on Glee, the petite 5-foot-2-inch (157.5 cm) actress earned an impressive $80,000 per episode, significantly contributing to her net worth of $12 million.
Funny Girl star Lea Michele brought her signature elegance to the 2023 Tony Awards. She embraced a classic summer red carpet vibe in a romantic Emilia Wickstead floral gown from the Resort 2023 collection.
Lea Michele exuded timeless elegance in a white floor-length gown adorned with bold red floral prints, gracefully concealing her shoes beneath the flowing hemline (Credit: M10s / TheNews2 / Cover Images)
Her talent and dedication have undoubtedly propelled her to impressive heights in her career, with her journey to Glee that began on Broadway.
After the series’ conclusion in 2015, Lea continued to shine in the television series Scream Queens and The Mayor. She even took on the iconic role of Ariel in a Hollywood Bowl production of The Little Mermaid.
Beyond her Glee fame, Lea has ventured into movies, appearing in films like New Year’s Eve and Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return.
Matthew Morrison: 5’11” Leading Man with Classic Tuxedos and Polished Footwear
Matthew Morrison portrayed the dedicated educator Will Schuester. As the director of the New Directions glee club, Will shared his wisdom and guidance with his students, becoming a motivating influence behind their musical aspirations.
During his tenure on the show, it’s estimated that he raked in approximately $80,000 per episode, ultimately amassing an astounding net worth of $10 million.
Matthew Morrison looked dapper in a classic black tuxedo with satin lapels and a crisp white shirt, finished with a sleek black bow tie at the Elton John AIDS Foundation event (Credit: Declan Goldring / Startraksphoto)
Matthew’s journey in the entertainment world began in 1997, starting with minor roles in films and TV before gaining recognition as the Spanish teacher and inspirational figure on Glee.
After the series ended, he continued to grace our television with appearances in renowned shows such as As the World Turns, Grey’s Anatomy, and American Horror Story: 1984.
Standing at 5 feet 11 inches (180.3 cm), Matthew Morrison extended his talent to the big screen with roles in films such as Tulip Fever, What to Expect When You’re Expecting, and Underdogs.
Jane Lynch: 6’0″ Comedy Icon Who Dominates Red Carpets in Sharp Suits and Power Heels
Jane Lynch is the actress behind the iconic character Sue Sylvester. Sue Sylvester is a fiery cheerleading coach with a knack for creating havoc. She served as a captivating foil to the New Directions glee club led by Will Schuester.
During her six-season stint on Glee, the American comedian reportedly earned $80,000 per episode, building a Sue Sylvester–worthy net worth of $9 million—a testament to her talent and success in the entertainment industry.
Jane Lynch embraced understated elegance in a floral blouse layered under a tailored black coat and wide-leg trousers, finishing the look with sleek black pointed-toe shoes at the Party Down FYC event (Credit: Xavier Collin / Image Press Agency / Abaca Press / INSTARimages)
But Jane’s impressive career doesn’t stop at Glee. She’s a familiar face in television and film, with notable appearances in shows like Criminal Minds and The Good Fight and roles in movies such as The 40-Year-Old Virgin and The Three Stooges.
Standing tall at 6 feet (183 cm), Jane Lynch has showcased her versatile acting skills across numerous productions, including recurring roles in Two and a Half Men, The L Word, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. She recently captivated audiences with standout performances in the Netflix series Space Force and Only Murders in the Building.
Chris Colfer: 5’9″ Style Trailblazer Who Rocks Heeled Boots and Statement Jackets
Chris Colfer made an impressive portrayal of the charismatic Kurt Hummel in Glee, capturing the hearts of fans with his character’s journey from a shy, closeted teen to a confident adult chasing his dreams in New York City.
Standing at 5 feet 9 inches (175.3 cm), American actor Chris Colfer was one of the youngest Glee cast members and a Hollywood newcomer when he landed the role of Kurt Hummel—a breakout part he famously said made him “about 5-10… 5-11 in heels, esque shoes” during an appearance on Conan.
Chris Colfer looked sharp in a patterned navy shirt, black blazer, slim black jeans, and worn-in black boots at the Fatal Attraction premiere (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images)
Throughout the series, he demonstrated remarkable acting skills and made a significant creative contribution by writing an episode. It boosted his income to an impressive $45,000 per episode and played a key role in accumulating his current substantial net worth, a commendable $8 million.
After Glee wrapped up, Chris Colfer’s television appearances have been relatively limited, with a guest role in the TV sitcom Hot in Cleveland being the exception.
He also ventured into film, writing and producing the acclaimed 2012 movie Struck By Lightning and appearing in the 2016 comedy Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie.
Darren Criss: 5’7½” Actor with Edgy Looks, Pointed-Toe Boots, and Theatrical Flair
Short at 5 feet 7½ inches (171.5 cm), Darren Criss brought Blaine Anderson to life in Glee—first as the charismatic lead singer of The Dalton Academy Warblers and later as a beloved member of the William McKinley High School Glee Club.
Although he joined the series in its second season, his character quickly became integral to its success. With an estimated net worth of $5 million, Darren began his entertainment journey by co-founding StarKid Productions shortly after graduating from university in 2009.
Darren Criss embraced retro flair in a sheer checkered shirt and high-waisted trousers, elevating the look with pointed black heeled boots that added a stylish lift to his petite 5’7½” frame (Credit: Janet Mayer / Startraksphoto)
His musical theater company produced the viral sensation of the Harry Potter musical parody, A Very Potter Musical, which catapulted him into the role of Blaine for 90 episodes.
In 2009, he had a recurring role in the fantasy TV show Eastwick and a pivotal role in the CBS crime drama Cold Case. The following year, he released his debut EP, Human.
Beyond Glee, Darren showcased his acting skills in films such as Superman: Man of Tomorrow, Midway, and Girl Most Likely, as well as notable roles in TV shows like The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, Hollywood, and Royalties.
Jenna Ushkowitz: 5’1″ Petite Performer Who Elongates Her Frame with Bold Pumps
South Korean-born American actress Jenna Ushkowitz brought the painfully shy Tina Cohen-Chang to life on Glee. She held a prominent role in seasons one to five but became a recurring cast member in the final season.
Standing at 5 feet 1 inch (154.9 cm) and wearing a US shoe size 6, Jenna Ushkowitz maintains an estimated net worth of $4 million, thanks partly to her $80,000 per episode earnings during Glee.
Jenna once said, aware of how to dress for her petite frame, “I definitely have hips, and I’m shorter, so I like to make my legs look longer. I’ll wear shorts or pants that elongate my legs… I definitely like to show off my waist and my butt.”
Jenna Ushkowitz flaunted her petite frame in a vibrant orange mini dress paired with pointed white pumps that helped elongate her legs on the iHeartRadio red carpet (Credit: Brandi Benton / Startraksphoto / Cover Images)
Her acting career started early, with minor roles on shows such as Sesame Street, eventually paving her way to Broadway musicals. She made her television debut on the Disney Channel show The Suite Life of Zack & Cody in 2007, leading to her role in Glee two years later.
Jenna is recognized for appearing in shows like Little Bill and roles in movies like 1 Night in San Diego, Hello Again, and Twinsters.
After the hit show ended, she returned to her Broadway roots, gracing the stage in productions like Waitress and The Wedding Singer. Her achievements as a producer earned her two prestigious Tony Awards for her work on Broadway plays Once On This Island and The Inheritance.
Heather Morris: 5’8″ Dancer-Turned-Actress Who Embraces High Fashion and Chunky Booties
Heather Morris portrayed the stereotypical “dumb blonde” cheerleader, Brittany S. Pierce, in Glee. Her impeccable comic timing earned her a promotion to a prominent cast member in season two, though her role was reduced in the final two seasons due to her real-life pregnancy.
With an estimated net worth of $4 million, 5-foot-8 (172.7 cm) American actress Heather Morris began her Hollywood journey after leaving college to chase her entertainment dreams.
Best known for playing Brittany on Glee, she once humorously acknowledged her tall stature, saying, “I’m a little over 5’8″, and they’re all, like, 5’3″… I was like, ‘Oh, my God, I look like a beast!’” She wears a US shoe size 8.
Heather Morris showcased her long legs in a lilac mini dress with gold shoulder embellishments, pairing the look with bold brown buckled booties that added edge to her statuesque 5’8″ frame (Credit: Kyle Rover / Startraksphoto)
Her career started with a standout appearance on So You Think You Can Dance season two, followed by a role as a backup dancer on Beyoncé’s The Beyoncé Experience Tour and Single Ladies promotional tour.
Before her breakthrough role on Glee, she ventured into the film industry with appearances in movies like Fired Up! and Spring Breakers. Her diverse career includes roles in shows such as Pretty Little Stalker, The Troupe, and LA LA Living.
Recently, she made waves in reality television, competing on Dancing with the Stars in 2017 and achieving a perfect score, although she was eliminated in the sixth week. Her luck changed in 2022 when she was crowned the winner of The Masked Dancer.
Dianna Agron: 5’5½” Actress with Timeless Elegance in Tailored Pantsuits and Strappy Heels
Dianna Agron played the conniving cheerleading captain, Quinn Fabray. Initially, Quinn served as a primary antagonist in the first three seasons and later returned as a recurring character in subsequent seasons.
With an accomplished career in both television and film, Dianna currently enjoys an estimated net worth of $4 million. Her journey in showbiz started in musical theater before she transitioned to the screen, marking her debut in 2006 with a role in the teen mystery show Veronica Mars.
Dianna Agron suited up in a sleek black pantsuit with satin lapels, pairing the power look with minimalist black strappy heels that added polish and sophistication to her 5’5½” frame (Credit: Abaca Press / INSTARimages)
Standing at 5 feet 5½ inches (166.4 cm) and wearing a US shoe size 7, Dianna Agron saw her career gain momentum with a recurring role in the superhero series Heroes in 2007, followed by her first leading role in the comedy series It’s a Mall World later that same year.
Simultaneously starring in Glee, she expanded her fame and fortune by venturing into various silver-screen projects, including the 2010 musical Burlesque and the teen sci-fi film I Am Number Four.
Dianna continued diversifying her acting portfolio with appearances in indie films like Bare, Shiva Baby, The Laureate, and the sci-fi drama Acidman. She also ventured behind the camera, co-directing the anthology film Berlin, I Love You in 2019.
Jayma Mays: 5’4″ Style Sweetheart in Suede Booties and Feminine Red Carpet Looks
Jayma Mays, known for her role as William McKinley High School guidance counselor Emma Pillsbury, remained a constant presence throughout the series’ six seasons.
Before she landed her role, Jayma began her acting journey when she appeared in the Friends spin-off Joey in 2004 and made her feature film debut in the thriller Red Eye the following year, starring alongside Cillian Murphy and Rachel McAdams.
Jayma Mays opted for an all-black ensemble featuring sheer sleeves and fitted leggings, paired with suede lace-up booties that flattered her petite 5’4″ frame (Credit: INFevents)
Her remarkable pre-Glee presence includes appearances in popular sitcoms like How I Met Your Mother and Ugly Betty and comedy films such as Epic Movie and Paul Blart: Mall Cop.
Standing at 5 feet 4 inches (162.6 cm) and wearing a US shoe size 6.5, Jayma Mays continued to build a successful career beyond her standout role in Glee. Notable TV credits include a vocal role in the Shrek spin-off The Adventures of Puss in Boots and appearances in Heroes, The League, and Trial & Error.
Currently, Jayma Mays enjoys an estimated net worth of $3 million, solidifying her status as a successful and accomplished figure. Adding to her financial success, she starred in the 2022 Disney+ movie Disenchanted alongside Oscar-nominated actress Amy Adams.
Glee Cast Fashion Highlights: Iconic Looks On and Off Screen
Glee’s cast has consistently delivered standout fashion moments, from red carpet glamour to memorable on-screen outfits. Explore some of their most iconic styles:
Lea Michele’s Red Carpet Evolution
- Event: 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards
- Outfit: Lea Michele dazzled in an Oscar de la Renta gown, showcasing her transformation from TV star to fashion icon.
- Footwear: She paired the gown with elegant designer heels, emphasizing her petite frame.
- Read more: Lea Michele’s Stunning Transformation
Heather Morris Channels Britney Spears
- Episode: “Britney/Brittany” from Season 2
- Outfit: Heather Morris paid homage to Britney Spears with a bold green bralette, jeweled shorts, and gold knee-high boots.
- Details: The look mirrored Spears’ iconic 2001 VMAs performance, complete with a live python prop.
- Discover more: How Heather Morris Channeled Britney Spears in Glee and Fashion
Naya Rivera’s Bold Style Statements
- Event: LA Premiere of Judy
- Outfit: Naya Rivera turned heads in a leopard-print, off-the-shoulder maxi dress from Azzedine Alaïa’s Fall 1991 collection.
- Footwear: She completed the look with classic black ankle-strap heels, highlighting her confident style.
- Explore her style: Naya Rivera’s Bold Style Journey
Demi Lovato Joins the Glee Cast
- Role: Dani in Season 5
- Outfit: Demi Lovato embraced a mature look, shedding her Disney image with edgy fashion choices on the show.
- Details: Her character’s style reflected her personal evolution and added depth to the show’s fashion narrative.
- See more: Why Demi Lovato Portrayed Naya Rivera’s Girlfriend on Glee
These moments highlight the diverse and evolving fashion journeys of the Glee cast, both on-screen and beyond.