Celebrating the 112th anniversary of the Titanic’s maiden voyage, Us Weekly interviewed researcher James Penca to explore the life of passenger John Jacob Astor, the wealthiest man aboard the historic ship.

Why do people remain captivated by the Titanic even after a century?
The Titanic endures as the ultimate tale, filled with drama, romance, heroes, and villains—a captivating slice of history that appeals to diverse interests. Its enduring allure stems from this rich tapestry of narratives.

The Titanic carried passengers of various classes, including affluent individuals like John Jacob Astor. How did he compare with other high-profile passengers?
Accompanied by his new wife, Madeline, Astor was on a 10-week Mediterranean tour to escape a scandal back home in the U.S. due to their notable age difference (he was 47, she was 18). Many first-class passengers treated them with indifference.

What highlighted John Jacob Astor’s wealth and fame during his time on the Titanic?
Astor boarded the ship with an entourage: his wife, Madeline; his dog, Kitty; a valet; a lady’s maid; and a nurse—an impressive retinue indeed.

What was John Jacob Astor’s net worth at the time of his death in 1912, and what would that amount equate to today?

At the time of his death, Astor’s net worth was approximately $87 million, equivalent to around $18 billion in today’s terms.

How does his legacy contribute to our enduring fascination with the ship and celebrities today?
John Jacob Astor embodies the Titanic’s first-class allure and represents one of America’s most iconic families, adding layers of drama and fascination to the Titanic narrative.

Explore the wonder and tragedy of the world’s most famous ocean liner by planning a visit to Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. This immersive experience features hundreds of authentic artefacts, costumed actors, and meticulously recreated rooms. Locations in Las Vegas, Orlando, Florida, Columbus, Ohio, and Boston (opening October 17) offer a chance to step into history.