Who would’ve predicted that Hollywood’s most paid actor is a comedian? Adam Sandler is Forbes’ pick for the highest paid actor in 2023, beating top names in the industry including Oscar Winners.
Hollywood’s Best
Most likely Sandler found success in his many Netflix deals as he appeared and produced three films last year which contributed to £57m in earnings.
Though he was in the top 10 most paid actors in 2017, It has been 22 years since Sandler topped Forbes’ list marking it as an achievement for not only him but for other comedians worldwide striving for success.
Despite Sandler being in the business for literal decades now, teenagers worldwide still acknowledge him as one of their favourite celebrities, according to a 2021 survey by Piper Sandler (and no, they’re not related).
Netflix Deal
His Netflix deal originally started in 2014, which was then renewed in 2017 and then again at 2020, leading up to Sandler making over 10 movies over the decade for the streaming platform.
Though his movies aren’t exactly critically-acclaimed, with his first movie, “The Ridiculous 6” receiving a 0% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, his movies are still a “hit” to subscribers despite the negative reviews.
Ted Sorandos, Netflix CEO even said that Sandler
Stands out for his global appeal to Netflix subscribers… Even movies that were soft in the U.S. outperformed dramatically on Netflix in the US and around the world.
by 2020, Netflix users have watched an accumulative 2 billion hours watching his films since “Ridiculous 6” premiered in 2015. His movie “Murder Mystery 2” was the greatest contributor with 173 million hours of watch time last year.
Other Nominees
Surprisingly Adam Sandler managed to beat out Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling who were the lead actors in the critically-acclaimed “Barbie” movie.
The movie dubbed “Barbillion” for making a billion (in U.S Dollars) in gross revenue last year, and even added £80m to the UK economy during filming alone.
Sandler earned a whopping £57m last year putting him ahead of Margot Robbie by £10 and even ahead of 4-Time Oscar Nominee Tom Cruise by £22m.
Though Netflix couldn’t be credited for all his success as he also performed for a total of 44 stand-up shows across the US in 2023.
Long-Lasting Success (?)
Though Sandler is the most-paid actor for now, there is still a possibility that he may lag behind other stars in the long-run especially in contrast to Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling.
According to a report by Forbes, Netflix often uses premium fees to strike deals with actors for a buy out. Deals that do not include a cut of the profits for two years after their work is out on the platform.
While other actors might receive more lucrative deals due to their involvement with “Barbie”. It has been 4 years since Sandler’s deal with Netflix was renewed and as of writing there isn’t any news out on whether or not it’s renewed but Netflix themselves came did say that,
There’s no such thing as too much Sandler
The Sandman being the most-paid person in Hollywood was like an inspiration to many great comedians grinding out there! And if you’re interested in seeing those comedians live with their hilarious comedy shows, check them out at one of the best comedy clubs in London, Big Belly Comedy Club! Available 7 nights a week so join in the fun!
