How TV Actors are Paid in Syndication: Understanding Residuals, Initial Salaries, and Profit Participation

The world of television syndication can be complex, especially when it comes to compensating actors for their work. Understanding how and why TV actors are paid for their shows in syndication is crucial for both actors and producers. Here, we break down the different payment methods and factors that influence an actor's earnings.

Initial Payment: Salaries

When actors are hired for a show, they typically negotiate and agree on an initial salary before filming begins. This salary can vary greatly depending on the actor's experience, the show's budget, and its expected success. Established actors with significant experience might command higher salaries due to their proven track record and industry value.

For many TV actors, the initial salary is just the beginning of their earnings. Once the show goes into syndication, actors can qualify for additional payments known as residuals.

Residuals: Payments for Reruns

Residual payments are one of the primary sources of income for actors in syndication. These payments are governed by agreements between the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) and the producers. Residual payments are typically a percentage of the revenue generated from reruns of the show. The amount and frequency of these payments depend on several factors:

The number of reruns aired The time elapsed since the original airing The distribution platform (cable, streaming, etc.)

While residuals are important, the arrangement can get complicated. The amount and type of residuals vary based on the original contract, the actor's role, and the show's success. For example, actors on long-running series or those who become iconic may receive significantly more residuals than those from shorter-lived shows.

Participation in Profits: A Premium Payment Method

In addition to the initial salary and residuals, some actors, especially those with significant bargaining power or star power, might also participate in the profits generated by the show after it has been sold into syndication. Profit participation can be a substantial additional income source, particularly for lead actors or those in high-demand roles.

Variability and Contract Specifics

The specifics of how actors are paid in syndication can vary greatly. The contract details, the actors involved, and the negotiations can all influence an actor's earnings. Long-running series often offer better residual opportunities for actors who stay with the show for many seasons. Conversely, shorter-lived shows may offer fewer opportunities for residuals.

Unions like SAG-AFTRA have established minimums that must be met, ensuring that actors receive a fair payment for their work. However, big-name actors with a history of strong performance can negotiate for higher residuals, especially for shows like CSI and Law and Order, where the fights over residuals can be as significant as the initial salary negotiations.

Conclusion

While initial salaries are important, residuals often become a significant source of income for actors in syndication, especially for shows that continue to be aired over the years. Understanding the complexities of these payment methods is essential for both actors and producers to ensure fair compensation.