As the show goes on, so do the salaries. The cast of 'Friends' basically changed the way a cast negotiates, making $1 million each during its final seasons. Evidently, the cast of 'Big Bang Theory' took notes, as they were also bumped up to salaries of $1 million per episode as of 2015. Those terms include the core five, Jim Parsons, Johnny Galecki, Kaley Cuoco, Kunal Nayyar, and Simon Helberg.
Those are some impressive terms, though, given the success of the show, it was necessary. In truth, the hit show could've continued for many more years given its fanbase, though all good things must come to an end.
The many different characters made the show the success that it is. That includes the supporting characters, who weren't really breaking the bank throughout their time on the show.
Wil Wheaton is an example, he made $20,000 per episode, which is still impressive.
What might be even more surprising, is a long-term star on the show, keeping the same salary throughout, without much of a raise.
Sure, he wasn't part of the core, however, some believe he should've got a bump along the way. Let's find out who, and how much he made.
The Actor Started With Theater
The actor we're discussing got his career started in the world of theater. Instantly, he was shocked by the lack of preparation it took when it came to television. Once he started with 'Big Bang', the actor admitted it was refreshing not to over-rehearse everything.
"I studied at The American Academy Of Dramatic Arts in New York - it was all theater training, which was great, but I went into the professional world thinking weeks of rehearsal was normal… then I started in TV and film and quickly realized ANY kind of rehearsal was a luxury."
"The impressive thing about Big Bang is that they reach a level of performance in one week (each show is rehearsed and shot in five days) that in the theater world would take much, much longer."
According to his interview with My Fanbase, he was the perfect person to cast for the role, especially given that he worked the exact same occupation in real life prior to the show. So what was the job and who is the mystery man?
He Actually Worked At A Comic Book Store
That's right, Kevin Sussman, the man who played Stuart Bloom on the sitcom for many years, actually worked at a comic book store.
Despite the attachment to the character, Sussman had originally auditioned for Barry Kripke.
"I auditioned for Chuck Lorre—at that time he had wanted me for Barry Kripke."
Sussman would get a call back for another tryout, this time for the comic book store owner. He thrived and a lot of it had to do with his past experiences.
"While I was a struggling actor I worked at a comic book store in New York (Jim Hanley’s Universe – it’s still there, right near the Empire State Building.) So, I’ve been a fan of comics for a while."
"My favorite comic book is undoubtedly Eightball by Dan Clowes. But if we’re talking superhero stuff – probably Batman. I was working at the store back when Frank Miller’s “The Dark Knight” came out and it changed my understanding of what a superhero comic could be."
He fit in nicely during his time on the show, adding yet another layer to the popular sitcom. However, fans find it a bit bizarre that his salary didn't budge.
Steady Salary
According to Screen Rant, Sussman's pay stayed steady throughout his time on the show. It was reported that he made $50,00 per episode, he appeared in 84 total. Given his longevity, some would have expected that number to be greater, but hey, it is still a big chunk of cash.
John Ross Bowie, who played the role of Barry, made the same salary per episode, but only appearing in 25 episodes.
Mayim Bialik saw the most dramatic increase on the show, going from $45,000 all the way up to $450,000. Melissa Rauch saw the same boost.
Despite the lack of raise in pay, Sussman had a blast on the show. He linked the long-term success to the characters.
"Casting, writing, set design, wardrobe… I think it hits all the marks."
"It's just so easy to watch – it's not too heavy or deep, but the characters also aren't devoid of emotion – even Sheldon – he’s socially inept, but he's filled with emotion… the neurotic things he gets emotional about are what makes him so funny."
Maybe if a reboot takes place, Sussman might finally see a boost in pay.
Sources: Screen Rant, TV Store Online & My Fanbase