CBS
As “The Big Bang Theory” was gearing up for its eighth season, the popular CBS sitcom created by Chuck Lorre was creating a buzz worldwide. However, it wasn’t the show’s content that was making waves, but the salary renegotiations of its main cast members. Jim Parsons, Johnny Galecki, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Kaley Cuoco, Melissa Rauch, and Mayim Bialik were all seeking significant pay increases. Kunal Nayyar, a newcomer to the spotlight, sought guidance from a familiar face in the sitcom world: Matt LeBlanc of “Friends” fame.
In her book, “The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series,” Jessica Radloff quotes Nayyar explaining his conversation with LeBlanc. The “Friends” and “Episodes” star gave Nayyar crucial advice on handling fame, telling him to stay grounded despite the whirlwind journey. LeBlanc’s counsel was instrumental in helping Nayyar navigate his newfound fame.
Nayyar further elaborated to Radloff about his experience with fame. He explained his interaction with distant relatives who surfaced after his rise to fame. Nayyar’s character on “The Big Bang Theory” was significant for Indian culture, being one of the few Indian characters on a leading American sitcom. LeBlanc’s advice to stay humble and grounded was echoed by Chuck Lorre, reinforcing the importance of humility during this journey.
Uncomfortable Revelations: The Big Bang Theory’s Million-Dollar Salaries
CBS
So, what were the salaries of “The Big Bang Theory” cast members as the show entered its eighth season? After the cast’s negotiations were made public, Warner Bros. confirmed that the show’s success warranted significant increases in the cast’s salaries. Jim Parsons, Johnny Galecki, and Kaley Cuoco now commanded $1 million per episode, while Simon Helberg and Kunal Nayyar were not far behind. The public knowledge of their salaries, however, made the cast members uneasy.
Johnny Galecki, who portrayed Leonard Hofstadter, found the public’s knowledge of his salary uncomfortable. The public revelation forced Galecki to become more guarded, a sentiment echoed by Simon Helberg, who was surprised at the speed with which the news of their salaries broke.
The Big Bang Theory Cast Worried About Audience Perception
CBS
Johnny Galecki was also concerned that the public knowledge of their salaries would alter the audience’s perception of the cast. Despite the discomfort, the audience’s reception to the show remained positive. Jim Parsons was more nonchalant about the situation, acknowledging his large earnings and refusing to justify it. He expressed his surprise at how money circulates globally and where it lands.
“The Big Bang Theory,” continues to provide substantial syndication earnings for its cast members, and is available for streaming on Max and potentially airing on TBS as you read this.
Credit: www.slashfilm.com
