The Top Earner's Throne: Highest Paid Game of Thrones Actors
Hello, Game of Thrones enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the world of dragons, ice zombies, and... drumroll... big bucks. You've been wondering who among the cast took home the iron throne of earnings, and we're here to spill the tea. So, grab your favorite beverage, and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and highest paid game of thrones actors.
The Iron Bank of Westeros: Game of Thrones' Budget
Before we delve into the earnings of our favorite characters, let's talk about the show's budget. Game of Thrones was a cash cow for HBO, with its final season's budget reaching a whopping $90 million. That's more than the GDP of some small countries! With such a massive budget, you can bet the cast was well-compensated.
The Dragon's Share: Kit Harington and Emilia Clarke's Earnings
Now, let's talk about the two actors who rode the dragon's share of the earnings wave: Kit Harington (Jon Snow) and Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen).
Kit Harington: From Bastard to King
Kit Harington started his Game of Thrones journey in Season 1, earning a modest $150,000 per episode. By Season 7, his paycheck had grown to a cool $500,000 per episode. That's a $1.1 million increase over six seasons! In total, Kit raked in around $30 million from the show.
Emilia Clarke: The Mother of Dragons' Fortune
Emilia Clarke also started with a $300,000 per episode paycheck in Season 1. By the final season, she was bringing home $500,000 per episode, totaling around $30 million for the entire series.
The Kingsguard's Purse: Supporting Cast Earnings
While Kit and Emilia were busy burning cities and warging into direwolves, the supporting cast was also cashing in.
Lena Headey (Cersei Lannister) and Peter Dinklage (Tyrion Lannister)
Lena Headey and Peter Dinklage, who played the infamous Lannister siblings, were among the highest-paid supporting cast members. Each earned $500,000 per episode in the final seasons, totaling around $15-20 million each for the series.
Liam Cunningham (Davos Seaworth) and Carice van Houten (Melisandre)
Other notable earners include Liam Cunningham (Davos Seaworth) and Carice van Houten (Melisandre), who each took home $150,000 per episode in the final seasons. That's around $5 million each for their time in Westeros.
The Wildlings' Wage: Guest Stars and Recurring Cast
Even guest stars and recurring cast members cashed in on the Game of Thrones gold rush.
Gwendoline Christie (Brienne of Tarth) and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (Jaime Lannister)
Gwendoline Christie and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, who joined the main cast in later seasons, each earned $150,000 per episode in their final seasons. That's around $5 million each for their time on the show.
Max von Sydow (Three-Eyed Raven) and Jim Broadbent (Archmaester Ebrose)
Even brief appearances by the likes of Max von Sydow and Jim Broadbent commanded respect on the pay scale. Each earned $100,000 per episode for their guest spots.
The Iron Throne's Legacy: Post-Game of Thrones Earnings
Game of Thrones may be over, but its stars continue to reap the benefits of their time in Westeros.
Kit Harington and Emilia Clarke: Post-Game of Thrones Projects
Kit Harington and Emilia Clarke have both signed on for big-budget projects post-Game of Thrones. Kit will star in the upcoming The Eternals for Marvel, while Emilia will lead the cast of Star Wars: Episode IX.
Peter Dinklage: From Westeros to Hollywood
Peter Dinklage has also seen a significant boost in his career post-Game of Thrones. He's set to star in the upcoming My Dinner with Herve and has a producing deal with HBO.
The Long Night's Lessons: Advice from Game of Thrones Stars
While we're on the topic of earnings, let's take a moment to reflect on the wisdom our beloved Game of Thrones stars have shared about money.
Emilia Clarke: The Importance of Financial Planning
Emilia Clarke has spoken openly about the importance of financial planning. She advises, "Don't be afraid to ask for help. It's okay not to know everything."
Peter Dinklage: Invest Wisely
Peter Dinklage has shared that he's invested in various businesses, including a winery and a production company. He advises, "Invest in things you're passionate about, and you'll be more likely to succeed."
The Night King's Final Word: The Impact of Game of Thrones on Earnings
Game of Thrones has left an indelible mark on the world of television and its stars' bank accounts. The show's massive success has paved the way for higher paychecks for its actors and more ambitious budgets for future projects.
So, there you have it, folks! The iron throne of earnings has been claimed, and it's been a wild ride. From modest beginnings to dragons' hoards of cash, our favorite Game of Thrones stars have truly made the most of their time in Westeros.
Until next time, keep your eyes on the prize, and remember: when you play the game of thrones, you win or you die... rich.