How the 10 Highest-Paid Actors of 2023 Boosted Their Paychecks
Starring in a hit movie at the box office has always been an actor’s golden opportunity for long-term success. The stars with the biggest names continue to dominate the payrolls as the highest-paid actors each year. Let’s dive into the top 10 highest-paid actors of 2023 and explore how they continue to boost their paychecks in an ever-changing industry.
Learn More: Top 10 Richest Actors in the World
Find Out: Owe Money to the IRS? Most People Don’t Realize They Should Do This One Thing
10. Denzel Washington — $24 Million
Denzel Washington, with an estimated $24 million in earnings, is a testament to the enduring appeal of established actors. The third installment of “The Equalizer” franchise, released in 2023, hit over $190 million at the box office. With two Oscar awards in his back pocket, Washington’s 40-year portfolio continues to generate some extra cash, ensuring him a consistent income stream.
9. Ben Affleck — $38 Million
Ben Affleck’s estimated $38 million earnings in 2023 reflect his role as an actor and a studio executive. As CEO of Artists Equity, Affleck directed and co-starred in “Air,” which grossed $90 million at the box office before moving to Amazon Prime Video. His diversified approach, which includes directing, acting and running a studio, sets him up for long-term financial stability.
Read Next: How Rich Are Jennifer Aniston and These Other ‘Friends’ Stars?
8. Jason Statham — $41 Million
Jason Statham, with an estimated $41 million in earnings, continues to be a major action star in Hollywood. In 2023, he starred in “Fast X,” “Meg 2: The Trench,” and “Expend4bles,” ensuring a strong box office presence. Statham’s consistent work in major franchises and his appeal to action film audiences contribute to his ongoing success.
7. Leonardo DiCaprio — $41 Million
Leonardo DiCaprio’s role in “Killers of the Flower Moon” contributed to his estimated $41 million earnings in 2023. Although he missed out on an Oscar nomination, his work with Martin Scorsese ensured a substantial salary and additional revenue from theatrical profit participation. DiCaprio’s long-standing success in Hollywood and his strategic choices in projects maintain his position among the industry’s elite.
6. Jennifer Aniston — $42 Million
Jennifer Aniston’s estimated earnings of $42 million in 2023 are rooted in a diverse portfolio. Her residuals from “Friends,” combined with her role on Apple TV’s “The Morning Show” and various endorsement deals, provide a steady income stream. Aniston’s ability to maintain a high profile through television and film, along with her business ventures promoting brands like UberEays, Vital Proteins and her haircare line, LolaVie, ensures her continued presence among Hollywood’s top earners.
5. Matt Damon — $43 Million
Matt Damon also earned an estimated $43 million in 2023, thanks in part to his role in “Oppenheimer” and his work on “Air.” Damon took a smaller upfront salary for his role in “Oppenheimer” in exchange for a share of the film’s profits, demonstrating a savvy approach to contract negotiations. His partnership with Ben Affleck through Artists Equity, a studio that shares profits with below-the-line talent, underscores his commitment to a more equitable industry while boosting his long-term earning potential.
4. Ryan Gosling — $43 Million
Ryan Gosling’s role as Ken in “Barbie” earned him an estimated $43 million. Despite being a supporting character, his association with the year’s biggest movie provided him with substantial financial rewards. Additionally, the popularity of his song “I’m Just Ken,” which has been streamed over 100 million times on Spotify, added to his earnings. Gosling’s adaptability and unique appeal position him well for continued success.
3. Tom Cruise — $45 Million
Tom Cruise, one of Hollywood’s most iconic action stars, earned an estimated $45 million in 2023. Cruise’s “first-dollar gross” deal structure means he receives a percentage of box office revenues from day one, giving him a significant financial advantage. His work on “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One” and residuals from “Top Gun: Maverick” ensured a consistent income stream. Cruise’s star power and ability to command high salaries will keep him at the forefront of Hollywood’s elite earners.
2. Margot Robbie — $59 Million
Margot Robbie’s role as both star and producer of “Barbie” earned her an estimated $59 million. The film’s phenomenal success not only led to significant box office revenue but also opened doors for various licensing and partnership deals. Robbie’s production company, LuckyChap Entertainment, was instrumental in the film’s success, allowing her to secure a share of the back-end profits. This dual role as actor and producer ensures Robbie will continue to earn from “Barbie” and other projects in the years to come.
1. Adam Sandler — $73 Million
Adam Sandler leads the list, earning an estimated $73 million in 2023. Since signing a $250 million four-picture deal with Netflix in 2014, Sandler has become a key player for the streaming platform. In 2023, he starred in “Murder Mystery 2,” released the animated film “Leo,” and produced “You’re So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah.” Sandler’s vast catalog of comedies, along with his Happy Madison production company, continues to attract Netflix audiences, providing a steady stream of revenue. His 44-stop stand-up comedy tour also contributed to his robust earnings, demonstrating his diversified approach to the entertainment industry.
More From GOBankingRates
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: How the 10 Highest-Paid Actors of 2023 Boosted Their Paychecks
