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Game of Thrones: A Financial Success Story
When it comes to the financial success of a television series, Game of Thrones stands out as a prime example. With its massive budget, sprawling cast, and global fanbase, the show has generated billions in revenue. But how much did the actors who brought Westeros to life make from their roles? Let’s dive into the numbers and explore the financial breakdown of the Game of Thrones cast.
Salary and Compensation
At the start of Game of Thrones, the actors were not the highest-paid on the show. However, as the series gained popularity, their salaries skyrocketed. The initial salary for the main cast members was reported to be around $50,000 per episode. By the end of the series, the lead actors were making upwards of $1 million per episode.
| Actor | Season 1 Salary | Season 8 Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen) | $50,000 | $1 million |
| Kit Harington (Jon Snow) | $50,000 | $1 million |
| Lena Headey (Cersei Lannister) | $50,000 | $1 million |
| Peter Dinklage (Tyrion Lannister) | $50,000 | $1 million |
| Sansa Stark | $50,000 | $1 million |
| Arya Stark | $50,000 | $1 million |
| Bran Stark | $50,000 | $1 million |
It’s worth noting that these salaries do not include residuals, which are additional payments made to actors based on the number of times the show is aired or sold. Residuals can significantly boost an actor’s earnings, especially for a show as successful as Game of Thrones.
Residuals and Other Earnings
In addition to their salaries, the Game of Thrones cast also earned substantial residuals. With the show’s widespread success, the actors received a portion of the profits from streaming, home video sales, and merchandise. According to reports, Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, and Lena Headey earned millions in residuals alone.
Moreover, the actors also benefited from the show’s merchandise. From clothing to collectibles, the Game of Thrones brand generated billions in revenue. The actors received a percentage of these profits, further increasing their earnings.
Post-Game of Thrones Success
The success of Game of Thrones has opened doors for many of the actors. Emilia Clarke, for instance, has starred in movies like “Terminator Genisys” and “Last Knight,” while Kit Harington has appeared in “The Night Manager” and “The Eternals.” These roles have not only solidified their careers but also provided additional income.
Additionally, the actors have leveraged their fame from Game of Thrones to launch their own projects. Lena Headey, for example, has produced and starred in the series “The Looming Tower,” while Peter Dinklage has continued to work in film and television.
Conclusion
Game of Thrones has been a financial bonanza for its cast, with actors like Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, and Lena Headey earning millions from their roles. The show’s success has not only boosted their bank accounts but also opened doors for future projects. As the series continues to generate revenue through streaming, residuals, and merchandise, the cast’s earnings are likely to keep growing.
