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HBO Pays All ‘The White Lotus’ Stars The Same Amount, But Is That Really A Good Thing?
In a bold move, the producers of HBO’s hit series “The White Lotus” have revealed that all its regulars are paid the same amount, regardless of their role size or star status. According to reports, this means that veterans like Parker Posey and Jason Isaacs, as well as newcomers like Sam Nivola and Tayme Thapthimthong, receive a flat rate of $40,000 per episode. While this news has been met with widespread applause from fans and critics alike, I can’t help but feel a sense of skepticism.
On one hand, it’s undeniable that the gender gap is a real issue in the entertainment industry, and equal pay for all is undoubtedly a step in the right direction. But on the other hand, star power and drawing power should also be considered. An actor like William H. Macy, with decades of experience and a massive following, deserves to be compensated accordingly. Similarly, someone like Woody Harrelson, who was initially offered a role but ultimately declined due to scheduling conflicts, shouldn’t have been refused when they asked for a better deal.
While I appreciate the sentiment behind this move, I fear that it’s not necessarily in the best interest of the actors involved. It’s akin to saying that all writers should be paid the same amount, regardless of their experience or skill level. The reality is that these are negotiations, and it’s only fair for those with more value to bring to the table (be it through box office success or awards recognition) to receive a higher payday.
Moreover, this policy seems like a clear win-win for HBO and Warner Bros., who get to reap the benefits of having talented actors on board without having to worry about negotiating individual salaries. It’s a system that rewards loyalty rather than merit, which can lead to stagnation in an industry where innovation is key.
As someone who has written online content for “exposure,” I’m particularly troubled by the idea that HBO thinks it’s acceptable for their actors to work for scale. Newsflash: writing for exposure is not only dehumanizing but also unsustainable in the long run. Similarly, paying all actors equally without any room for negotiation can lead to a culture where talent and hard work are undervalued.
In conclusion, while I understand why this move has been met with such enthusiasm online, I’m just not convinced that it’s a good thing. It might be great PR for HBO, but let’s not forget that negotiations are an essential part of the industry.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/erikkain/2025/04/05/hbo-pays-all-the-white-lotus-stars-the-same-amount-but-is-that-really-a-good-thing/
