How much does a Hollywood actor earn? The ranking of the highest paid in 2024

The year 2023 will be etched in Hollywood history as the year of BarbieHeimer. This was the year when two potential hit movies, Barbie and Oppenheimer, were released simultaneously in July and took the entertainment world by storm. These two movies conquered the box office and dominated the awards circuit, captivating audiences worldwide and inspiring a flurry of essays and poems, engraving immediately on the global pop culture.

At the prestigious Oscars 2024 ceremony, “Oppenheimer” proved to be a towering success, winning most major categories, including Best Actor, Best Director, and Best Picture. The movie’s exceptional plot, direction, and acting surpassed everyone’s expectations and made it the talk of the town. On the other hand, “Barbie” also proved to be a blockbuster hit, earning an impressive $1.4 billion globally. Despite the formidable competition, it managed to captivate audiences and became a favorite among movie-goers.

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Apart from earning hefty paychecks, the actual currency earned by this year’s highest-paid actors is the unprecedented soft power they wield within the industry. In Hollywood, fortunes can rise or fall with each performance, and this list offers a snapshot of who holds the most leverage in the industry as we move into 2024.

1. Adam Sandler - ($73 million)

Adam Sandler has topped the list of highest-paid actors in 2024. After the release of “Murder Mystery 2″ on Netflix, he experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity. The film garnered 173 million hours of worldwide views within the first three months. Sandler had a prolific year with over 40 stand-up comedy tour dates and the release of three Netflix films, cementing his status as a cultural icon.

2. Margot Robbie - ($59 million)

Second place is Margot Robbie, whose portrayal of Barbie sparked a cultural phenomenon that resonated around the world. The film Barbie grossed an enormous $1.45 billion at the global box office, propelling Robbie to unprecedented heights of fame and fortune. As the producer and lead actress of the movie, Robbie enjoyed the benefits of her success, earning a significant share of the back-end profits and cementing her status as one of the most influential figures in Hollywood.

3. Tom Cruise - ($45 million)

In the third position, we have the invincible and ever-present Tom Cruise, whose action heroics have defied all expectations despite his age. He is famous for his daring stunt work and unwavering commitment to cinematic excellence, making him one of the last remaining symbols of traditional Hollywood stardom. His lucrative first-dollar gross deals negotiation skills ensure he receives a substantial payday with every blockbuster release, making him an invaluable asset to studios worldwide.

4. Matt Damon/Ryan Gosling - ($43 million)

Matt Damon and Ryan Gosling share the fourth spot for their collaborative efforts in the movies Oppenheimer and Barbie. Both audiences and critics highly praised their performances in the film. Damon’s approach to filmmaking is commendable, as he prioritizes empowering and promoting below-the-line talent, as demonstrated by his involvement with the artist Equity Studio. Additionally, Gosling’s portrayal of the iconic Ken was widely acclaimed, especially his musical performance on the movie’s soundtrack, earning him a significant sum and positioning him high among Hollywood’s elite.

6. Jennifer Aniston - ($42 million)

Jennifer Aniston is among the top six most popular celebrities who continue to captivate audiences worldwide. She is known for her versatility and business acumen, which have ensured her a steady stream of success and prosperity. From her iconic role as Rachel Green in “Friends” to her executive producing duties on “The Morning Show,” Jennifer’s multifaceted career has made her an enduring figure in the entertainment industry, even today, 30 years after her pioneer performance as Rachel.