The HBO blockbuster series "Game of Thrones" is not only renowned for its breathtaking storytelling and intricate characters but also for its record-breaking budgets. As a result, the salary of Game of Thrones actors has garnered immense curiosity among fans and entertainment enthusiasts alike. With the show spanning eight glorious seasons, its cast members emerged as some of the most recognizable faces across the globe, earning hefty paychecks for their iconic roles.
From the battle-hardened Jon Snow to the fiery Daenerys Targaryen, the leading cast members of "Game of Thrones" negotiated impressive contracts as the show gained momentum. While the series initially started with modest pay scales, the skyrocketing popularity of the show ensured significant salary hikes for the actors, particularly in the later seasons. But how much did these actors really earn per episode? And who topped the earning charts among them?
This article takes an in-depth look into the salary of Game of Thrones actors, exploring their per-episode earnings, contract negotiations, and the factors that influenced these figures. We’ll also delve into the actors' biographies, their journey into the world of Westeros, and their financial success beyond the series. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious observer, buckle up as we uncover the fascinating world of the Game of Thrones cast and their paychecks.
Table of Contents
- Biographies of Leading Characters
- What Determined the Salary of Game of Thrones Actors?
- How Much Did Emilia Clarke Earn?
- Kit Harington and His Record-Breaking Earnings
- Salary Comparison of Main Cast Members
- Why Did the Actors Get Salary Hikes?
- The Highest-Paid Actors in Game of Thrones
- Salaries of Supporting Cast Members
- How Does Their Earnings Compare to Other Shows?
- What Was the Budget of Game of Thrones?
- Did the Salary of Game of Thrones Actors Affect the Budget?
- Post Game of Thrones Career and Earnings
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Biographies of Leading Characters
Who are the leading characters of Game of Thrones?
While "Game of Thrones" boasts an ensemble cast, a few characters stood out as the pillars of the series. These include Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen, Kit Harington as Jon Snow, Lena Headey as Cersei Lannister, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as Jaime Lannister, and Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister. Each actor brought their unique charm and depth to their roles, making them fan favorites.
Biographical Details of Emilia Clarke
Let’s take a closer look at the biography of Emilia Clarke, one of the show’s most iconic stars.
| Full Name | Emilia Isobel Euphemia Rose Clarke |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 23, 1986 |
| Nationality | British |
| Role in Game of Thrones | Daenerys Targaryen |
| Years Active | 2009–present |
| Net Worth | $20 million (as of 2023) |
Personal Details of Kit Harington
Here’s a quick overview of Kit Harington, who played the honorable Jon Snow.
| Full Name | Christopher Catesby Harington |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 26, 1986 |
| Nationality | British |
| Role in Game of Thrones | Jon Snow |
| Years Active | 2008–present |
| Net Worth | $14 million (as of 2023) |
What Determined the Salary of Game of Thrones Actors?
The salary of Game of Thrones actors wasn’t solely based on their screen time. Several factors played a role in determining their paychecks:
- Popularity of the Show: As the series gained immense global popularity, the actors’ salaries were adjusted to reflect the show’s success.
- Lead vs. Supporting Role: Lead cast members naturally earned more compared to supporting actors.
- Negotiation Skills: Agents and managers played a significant role in securing lucrative deals for the stars.
- Experience and Star Power: Established actors like Lena Headey and Peter Dinklage commanded higher pay from the start.
With these factors in mind, the show’s producers worked tirelessly to ensure that the salaries aligned with the actors’ contributions and the series’ budget constraints.
How Much Did Emilia Clarke Earn?
Emilia Clarke, who portrayed the fearless Daenerys Targaryen, earned a staggering $500,000 per episode by the final seasons of the show. This was a significant jump from her initial salary in Season 1, which was reportedly around $150,000 per episode.
Over the course of the series, Clarke’s cumulative earnings amounted to approximately $8 million. Her character’s central role in the storyline and her powerful performances were instrumental in justifying her high salary.
Why was Emilia Clarke’s salary justified?
Emilia Clarke’s portrayal of Daenerys was pivotal to the series. Her character’s journey from an exiled princess to the Mother of Dragons captivated audiences worldwide. Additionally, her performance earned her multiple award nominations, further solidifying her worth as one of the highest-paid actors on the show.
Kit Harington and His Record-Breaking Earnings
Kit Harington, the face behind Jon Snow, also earned $500,000 per episode by the final seasons. His journey as the honorable and resilient Jon Snow made him a fan favorite and a central figure in the series’ narrative.
Harington’s earnings over the eight seasons are estimated to be around $7 million. His character’s popularity, coupled with the complexity of his role, made him one of the highest-paid actors in the series.
Salary Comparison of Main Cast Members
Here’s a breakdown of the salaries of the main cast members:
- Emilia Clarke: $500,000 per episode
- Kit Harington: $500,000 per episode
- Lena Headey: $500,000 per episode
- Nikolaj Coster-Waldau: $500,000 per episode
- Peter Dinklage: $500,000 per episode
In contrast, supporting actors like Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark) and Maisie Williams (Arya Stark) earned slightly less, with their salaries ranging from $175,000 to $200,000 per episode in the early seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who was the highest-paid actor in "Game of Thrones"?
The highest-paid actors were Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, Lena Headey, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, and Peter Dinklage, each earning $500,000 per episode by the final seasons.
2. Did the cast receive bonuses for the series finale?
Yes, many cast members received additional bonuses due to the show’s immense success and record-breaking viewership for the finale.
3. How much did supporting cast members earn?
Supporting cast members earned between $50,000 to $175,000 per episode, depending on their role and screen time.
4. Were the salaries of the actors publicly disclosed?
Most salary figures were reported by trusted entertainment outlets, but official confirmations from HBO were rare.
5. Did the actors negotiate their salaries individually?
Yes, actors negotiated their contracts with the help of agents and managers, which is why salaries varied.
6. How did the salaries compare to other TV shows?
The salaries of "Game of Thrones" actors were among the highest in television history, comparable to stars of shows like "Friends" and "The Big Bang Theory."
Conclusion
The salary of Game of Thrones actors reflects not only their immense talent but also the unparalleled success of the series. From humble beginnings to becoming household names, the cast members’ earnings tell a story of growth, dedication, and the magic of Westeros. As fans continue to revisit the series, the legacy of "Game of Thrones" and its cast remains firmly etched in television history.
