How Much Do The World's Favorite TV Stars Really Earn?

Hey there, let’s talk about the big bucks in the world of television. These days, TV has become a powerhouse, sometimes even overshadowing the film industry. You might have noticed that big-name movie stars are now starring in TV series—shows that feel almost cinematic, thanks to platforms like HBO, AMC, Netflix, and Amazon, as noted by the film editors at The Verge. This shift has turned TV into a playground for talent, and the paychecks are getting bigger and bigger.

Back in the golden days of the hit sitcom "Friends," the main cast was pulling in a jaw-dropping $1 million per episode. Can you imagine? Now, fast forward to 2018—how much are today’s top TV actors making? Let’s dive in and find out!

Here Are the Top 10 Highest-Paid TV Stars!

I’ve put together a list of these stars’ annual salaries and how much they earn per episode. The numbers come straight from Business Insider, so we’re talking some serious cash flow here. Let’s see who made the cut and how they stack up in the world of TV riches.

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9 & 10. Grey’s Anatomy Stars Ellen Pompeo and Patrick Dempsey: $8.4 Million

The long-running medical drama "Grey’s Anatomy" is still going strong with its 11th season, and its two biggest stars, Ellen Pompeo and Patrick Dempsey, are cashing in big time. They each take home a cool $350,000 per episode. In 2014 alone, this translated to a whopping $8.4 million salary for both actors! If you’re a fan of the show, you know these two have been the heart and soul of the series, and their paychecks reflect just how important they are to its success.

For those of you who want to learn more about Ellen Pompeo and Patrick Dempsey's careers and what makes them such TV legends, keep reading!

TV Stars Making Bank in 2018

Let’s face it, television has become a goldmine for actors, and the industry is booming. With platforms like Netflix and Amazon shelling out millions to produce high-quality shows, it’s no surprise that salaries are climbing higher than ever before. But what does it take to be one of the top-paid TV stars? Talent, sure, but also longevity, consistency, and the ability to keep viewers hooked episode after episode.

As we explore the list of the highest-paid TV actors, you’ll notice a pattern: these stars are not just famous—they’re essential to the shows they’re in. They’ve built entire fan bases around their characters, and networks are willing to pay top dollar to keep them around. So, whether you’re a fan of medical dramas, crime thrillers, or comedy, you’ll find some familiar names on this list.