Are Star Trek: Voyager Actors Paid Residuals?
Yes, actors from Star Trek: Voyager, like those from other television shows, are typically entitled to residuals. Residuals are payments made to actors when a show is rerun, sold to syndication, or released on other platforms such as streaming services. The specific terms of residuals can vary based on actors' contracts, union agreements such as those from SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists), and the distribution methods of the show.
Star Trek: Voyager is a popular series that has been rerun and is available on various streaming platforms, so the actors likely receive residuals for those uses. This is true for most shows produced after the 1980s, where contracts typically stipulate payment of residuals for life. However, the payment is contingent upon the terms outlined in the contract and the platform's distribution method.
The Evolution of Pay for Television Actors
For the Original Series (1966–1969), it was a different story, as Gene Roddenberry did not provide residuals to the actors. In the case of Star Trek: Voyager, if actors are receiving residuals, it is because it is included in their contract. There are instances where one actor received a residual check for just 0.67 cents, demonstrating the often negligible nature of these payments.
The Low Rates and the Impact on Actors' Careers
While rates for residuals can be quite low, this often leads actors to seek out additional work. You'll commonly find them taking on low-pay acting jobs or attending minor sci-fi conventions for paltry attendance fees. These low payments are a result of the evolving nature of television and streaming services, where the primary revenue streams come from advertising and subscription fees rather than per-click revenue.
Contracts and Payment Methods
Residuals are often outlined in contracts, which typically state that a certain amount will be paid for every rerun or distribution on a platform. Some actors may agree to forgo part of their salary for these payments. The frequency of these payments can vary, with some actors being paid monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on the terms of their contract and the distribution methods.
Understanding the intricacies of residual payments can be complex, and it's often a topic of discussion among fans and industry insiders. If you have any specific questions about the payment practices for streaming services or for actors in Star Trek: Voyager, feel free to reach out and I'll do my best to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information.
For more information on residuals and the television industry, visit the official SAG-AFTRA website. Stay informed and support your favorite actors by sharing their work and acknowledging the invaluable contributions they make to the entertainment industry.