The HBO series "Game of Thrones" took the world by storm, captivating millions with its intricate plots, stunning visuals, and unforgettable characters. But behind the scenes, the show also made its cast members some of the highest-paid actors in television history. The question on many fans' minds remains: just how much did the stars of Westeros earn for bringing their iconic roles to life?
From the icy landscapes of the North to the fiery halls of King’s Landing, "Game of Thrones" became a cultural phenomenon spanning eight seasons. Its success wasn’t just measured in ratings and awards but also in the staggering salaries of its lead actors. The show's production costs were astronomical, and a significant chunk of that budget went into compensating its talented cast. As the series gained momentum, so did the paychecks of its stars, reflecting their growing importance to the storyline and the global fanbase.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of "Game of Thrones" actors' salaries, breaking down how much the main cast earned per episode, the factors influencing their pay, and the disparities between leading and supporting roles. We'll also explore how the show's success opened doors for its actors, boosting their net worth and future opportunities. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the financial side of one of TV's greatest sagas, this comprehensive guide will provide all the answers you need.
Table of Contents
- Biography of Key Actors
- How Much Did the Main Cast Earn Per Episode?
- What Were the Highest-Paid Roles in Game of Thrones?
- Factors Influencing Game of Thrones Actors Salary
- How Did the Pay Evolve Over the Seasons?
- Supporting Actors and Their Earnings
- The Impact of Game of Thrones on Actors' Net Worth
- How Does Game of Thrones Compare with Other TV Shows?
- Gender Pay Gap in Game of Thrones
- Game of Thrones Prequels and Spin-offs
- How Did Acting Contracts Affect Salaries?
- Behind the Numbers: Budgets and Actor Compensation
- What Roles Got the Lowest Salaries?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Game of Thrones Salaries
- Conclusion
Biography of Key Actors
Before diving into the financial details, it’s important to understand the main actors who brought the world of Westeros to life. These talented individuals not only defined the characters but also cemented their positions as household names.
Peter Dinklage – Tyrion Lannister
Peter Dinklage portrayed Tyrion Lannister, one of the most beloved and complex characters in the series. His performance earned him multiple awards, including four Primetime Emmy Awards.
| Full Name | Peter Hayden Dinklage |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | June 11, 1969 |
| Nationality | American |
| Notable Awards | 4 Primetime Emmy Awards, 1 Golden Globe |
Emilia Clarke – Daenerys Targaryen
Emilia Clarke gained worldwide fame for her portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen, also known as the Mother of Dragons. Her journey from a timid exile to a powerful queen was a central arc in the series.
| Full Name | Emilia Isobel Euphemia Rose Clarke |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | October 23, 1986 |
| Nationality | British |
| Notable Awards | 4 Primetime Emmy Nominations |
Kit Harington – Jon Snow
Kit Harington became the face of the series as Jon Snow, the brooding yet honorable leader who played a pivotal role in the story. His popularity soared, making him one of the highest-paid actors in the show.
| Full Name | Christopher Catesby Harington |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | December 26, 1986 |
| Nationality | British |
| Notable Awards | 2 Primetime Emmy Nominations |
Lena Headey – Cersei Lannister
Lena Headey brought depth and nuance to the role of Cersei Lannister, the ruthless queen of the Seven Kingdoms. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and numerous award nominations.
| Full Name | Lena Kathren Headey |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | October 3, 1973 |
| Nationality | British |
| Notable Awards | 5 Primetime Emmy Nominations |
How Much Did the Main Cast Earn Per Episode?
When it comes to television salaries, "Game of Thrones" set a new benchmark. Lead actors like Peter Dinklage, Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, Lena Headey, and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau were among the highest-paid, earning up to $1.2 million per episode in the final seasons. This figure reflects not just their acting skills but also their characters' pivotal roles in the series.
- Peter Dinklage: $1.2 million per episode (Season 7 and 8)
- Emilia Clarke: $1.2 million per episode (Season 7 and 8)
- Kit Harington: $1.2 million per episode (Season 7 and 8)
- Lena Headey: $1.2 million per episode (Season 7 and 8)
- Nikolaj Coster-Waldau: $1.2 million per episode (Season 7 and 8)
In the earlier seasons, their salaries were significantly lower, ranging from $100,000 to $300,000 per episode. The dramatic pay increase underscores the show's growing popularity and the actors' integral contributions to its success.
What Were the Highest-Paid Roles in Game of Thrones?
The highest-paid roles belonged to the lead characters, often referred to as the "A-tier" cast. This group included Tyrion Lannister, Daenerys Targaryen, Jon Snow, Cersei Lannister, and Jaime Lannister. These characters were central to the plot, appearing in the majority of episodes and driving the narrative forward.
- Peter Dinklage (Tyrion Lannister)
- Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen)
- Kit Harington (Jon Snow)
- Lena Headey (Cersei Lannister)
- Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (Jaime Lannister)
In the final seasons, their per-episode salaries reached the $1.2 million mark, making them some of the highest-paid actors in television history at the time.
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