The Reason Behind the Stars' High Pay in Game of Thrones

Why do the stars of Game of Thrones get paid so much? This is a question that has often been raised, especially when considering the initial contracts signed before the show's fame and success. However, this high pay is not only justified but also necessary for the continued success of a long-running series like Game of Thrones.

Why Contracts Are Renewed Mid-Series

A series as extensive as Game of Thrones involves multiple contract renewals throughout its run. It would not make sense to negotiate one single contract covering the entire series from the outset due to several factors:

The initial negotiations did not include a guarantee of renewal because the showrunners could not predict how long the series would continue. Premiere Network Artists

Asking for upfront commitments for actors for several seasons is a significant challenge. Contracts are renewed at intervals throughout the show's run, and the actors' salary demands escalate as the show gains popularity and the actors become more integral to the series. This escalation in pay reflects the increasing leverage the actors have over the network.

The Example of “Friends” and the Escalation of Salaries

The cast of Friends is a prime example of how an actor's salary can escalate over time. In the first season, each main cast member was paid approximately $22,000 per episode. However, as the show's popularity continued to grow, their salaries significantly increased. By the time the series concluded, each of the six main actors was earning $1 million per episode.

One of the key factors contributing to this increase was the collective negotiation by the Friends cast. They ensured that all six actors would receive the same amount of money for each episode. This teamwork and unity among the cast were crucial, especially considering the show could not afford to replace any of its core members.

Similarity in “Game of Thrones”

“Game of Thrones” has a far more extensive cast, making the negotiation process more complex. However, the core five actors—Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington, Lena Headey, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, and Emilia Clarke—still negotiate as a collective. Imagine attempting to recast any of them at any point in the story, even at the outset of the show. This collective negotiation ensures that the show remains stable and can continue to attract top actors, thus maintaining its quality and allure.

Increasing Leverage of Actors Over Time

The core actors in “Game of Thrones” have significant leverage due to their crucial roles and the show's enduring success. The longer a show runs, the more valuable the actors become, and the more they can demand in terms of salary. This increase in leverage means that the network can either pay the actors more, accept the risk of recasting, or risk calling the whole production off.

Conclusion

The high pay of the stars in Game of Thrones is not arbitrary but a result of the evolving dynamics of the show's production. As the series builds in popularity, the actors become indispensable, and their salaries naturally increase to reflect their growing importance. This continuous negotiation and renewal of contracts ensure the show can maintain its high quality, stability, and success over the long term.