Inside the Cast Salaries of Young Sheldon
Introduction to Young Sheldon’s Financial Success
Young Sheldon didn’t just expand the Big Bang Theory universe; it became a goldmine for its cast. Despite being a mix of child actors and experienced performers, every member brought their A-game—and got paid accordingly.
How Salaries Differed Across the Cast
The earnings varied significantly depending on roles, screen time, and experience. Here’s a breakdown of who earned what:
Iain Armitage – $50,000+ Per Episode
- Age: One of the youngest cast members, playing the titular role of Sheldon Cooper.
- Starting Salary: Iain began with $30,000 per episode in Season 1.
- Peak Earnings: By Seasons 4 and 5, he raked in $50,000 per episode, possibly climbing to $60,000 in later seasons.
- Fun Fact: At just 15 years old, Iain became one of the highest-earning child stars on TV.
Lance Barber – $300,000 Per Episode
- Role: George Cooper Sr., Sheldon’s father.
- Pay Growth: Starting at $125,000 per episode, Lance’s paycheck doubled as the series grew in popularity.
- Why So High? His pivotal role as the family’s patriarch made him indispensable, securing him a top spot on the payroll.
Zoe Perry – $150,000 Per Episode
- Role: Mary Cooper, Sheldon’s loving yet strict mother.
- Salary Insight: Zoe earned $150,000 per episode, a significant paycheck reflecting her crucial role in the show’s family dynamic.
- Legacy: Following in the footsteps of her mother, Laurie Metcalf, who portrayed an older Mary in The Big Bang Theory.
Raegan Revord – $30,000 Per Episode
- Role: Missy Cooper, Sheldon’s twin sister.
- Starting Salary: Raegan earned $30,000 per episode, starting at just nine years old.
- Why She Stood Out: Missy’s humor and emotional depth made her a fan favorite, ensuring her steady rise in the industry.
Montana Jordan – $10,000+ Per Episode
- Role: Georgie Cooper, Sheldon’s older brother.
- Earnings Insight: Montana earned a minimum of $10,000 per episode but still amassed over $200,000 per season thanks to the show’s lengthy episodes.
- Fun Fact: Despite earning less, Montana’s charm made him a standout character.
Annie Potts – $125,000 Per Episode
- Role: Meemaw, Sheldon’s quirky grandmother.
- Experience Pays: Annie’s decades of Hollywood experience made her one of the higher-paid cast members.
- Fan Favorite: Meemaw’s wit and wisdom were show highlights, making her worth every penny.
Factors Influencing Salaries in TV Shows
- Child Actor Regulations: Child actors like Iain Armitage and Raegan Revord had capped salaries due to industry regulations.
- Experience Levels: Veterans like Annie Potts and Lance Barber commanded higher salaries due to their established careers.
- Role Importance: Central characters such as Sheldon or George Sr. naturally earned more than secondary roles.
Comparing Young Sheldon’s Salaries to Other TV Shows
Ever wondered how Young Sheldon compares to other hit shows? Here’s a quick snapshot:
- The Big Bang Theory: Jim Parsons (adult Sheldon) earned $1 million per episode during the show’s peak.
- Stranger Things: Millie Bobby Brown reportedly earns $350,000 per episode, highlighting the gap between child stars and seasoned actors.
Where the Money Went
- Lifestyle Upgrades: Many stars invested in real estate, luxury cars, and vacations.
- Future Projects: Some, like Iain Armitage, are already diversifying into other TV roles and movies.
Conclusion
The cast of Young Sheldon proved that talent pays—literally. From Iain Armitage’s rise to fame to Lance Barber’s impressive checks, it’s clear the show was a win-win for everyone involved. While their on-screen family dynamics captured our hearts, their off-screen paychecks showed just how valued they were in Hollywood.
FAQs
1. Who was the highest-paid actor on Young Sheldon?
Lance Barber earned the most, with $300,000 per episode.
2. How much did Iain Armitage make by the end of the series?
Iain likely earned upwards of $60,000 per episode in the later seasons.
3. Did child actor regulations affect salaries?
Yes, regulations capped earnings for younger actors like Iain and Raegan.
4. How does Young Sheldon compare to The Big Bang Theory in salaries?
While Young Sheldon had impressive paychecks, The Big Bang Theory stars like Jim Parsons earned up to $1 million per episode.
5. What is the future of the cast?
Many stars are pursuing other roles in TV and film, ensuring their careers stay on a successful trajectory.