By 1916 Mary earned an incredible $2000 a week, with an additional $10,000 completion bonus for each film. Mary's weekly "wages" topped the average family annual income of the day! Quite remarkable considering she began being paid $10 a day with Biograph!

Married thrice, her first marriage to Biograph actor Owen Moore, began secretly and virtually remained so until its end. After her divorce, she wed matinee idol Douglas Fairbanks. The couple started United Artists Studios alongside their close mutual friend, Charlie Chaplin. Pickford and Fairbanks also built the legendary estate, Pickfair, that became the unofficial capital and hangout for Hollywood's brightest stars. Her third marriage, to Charles "Buddy" Rogers lasted more than 40 years until her death on May 29th, 1979. The couple adopted two children Ronald and Roxanne.

Pickford always remembered her roots and humble beginnings. Her chosen name, Pickford, came from her mother's ancestors so she always felt close to family. She was active in philanthropy, contributing to charities such as the Motion Picture and Television Fund, which she helped found.

Mary was awarded two Oscars during her life; the first was in 1929 for her role in the film "Coquette" in 1929. Her last public appearance was at the 1976 Oscars, where she received a Lifetime Achievement Award.