Top 30 Highest Paid TV Actors of 2023

Top 30 Highest Paid TV Actors of 2023

As someone who has always been interested in television and entertainment, going into the world of the highest-paid TV stars in 2023 is like entering a domain where skill meets prosperity.

With each passing year, it’s fascinating to see how these actors not only captivate audiences with their performances but also charge high salaries for their work.

From seasoned professionals to budding stars, the Top 30 list provides insight into the ever-changing landscape of television, highlighting the different talents and stories that continue to define our viewing experiences.

Join me as we explore the fascinating world of the highest-paid television performers, where skill, devotion, and the magic of storytelling combine to produce amazing moments on screen.

1. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson – $100 million

Dwayne Johnson 2, 2013.jpg Eva Rinaldi, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dwayne Douglas Johnson, born May 2, 1972, also known as The Rock, is an American actor, businessman, and professional wrestler. He gained fame in the WWF during the Attitude Era before transitioning to acting.

His films have grossed over $3.5 billion in North America and $10.5 billion worldwide, making him one of the highest-grossing actors. Johnson is a co-owner of the United Football League and a member of the board of directors of TKO Group Holdings. 

He starred in The Mummy Returns (2001) and The Scorpion King (2002) before leading roles in family and action films like Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) and the Fast & Furious franchise. Johnson has received widespread recognition, including being named one of the world’s most influential people by Time magazine.

2. Will Smith – $80 million

Will Smith. jpg TechCrunch, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Willard Carroll Smith II, born September 25, 1968, is an American actor, rapper, and film producer. With numerous awards, including an Oscar and four Grammys, his films have grossed over $9.3 billion globally.

Smith rose to fame on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and as part of a hip-hop duo with DJ Jazzy Jeff. He achieved success with solo albums like “Big Willie Style” and starred in hits like “Men in Black,” “Independence Day,” and “Ali,” earning Oscar nominations.

He won Best Actor for “King Richard” but faced controversy at the 2022 Oscars for slapping Chris Rock, leading to resignation and a ten-year ban from the Academy.

3. Mahershala Ali – $75 million

Mahershala Ali by Gage Skidmore (cropped).jpg Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mahershala Ali, born Mahershalalhashbaz Gilmore on February 16, 1974, is an acclaimed American actor with two Academy Awards. Time magazine named him among the 100 most influential people in 2019, and The New York Times recognized him as one of the top 25 actors of the 21st century.

After earning an MFA from NYU, Ali appeared in TV series like Crossing Jordan and Threat Matrix before gaining prominence in The 4400. He excelled in films like The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and won Oscars for Moonlight and Green Book, making history.

Ali also showcased his talent in TV shows like True Detective and Ramy, earning Primetime Emmy nominations, and voiced characters in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.

4. Denzel Washington – $70 million

Denzel Washington. jpg Falkenauge, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Denzel Hayes Washington Jr., born December 28, 1954, is an acclaimed American actor, producer, and director. With a career spanning over four decades, he’s earned numerous awards, including two Oscars and three Golden Globes.

Washington gained fame in “St. Elsewhere” and the film “A Soldier’s Story.” He won Oscars for “Glory” and “Training Day” and received nominations for roles in “Cry Freedom,” “Malcolm X,” and more.

Known for powerful performances, he starred in “Philadelphia,” “Remember the Titans,” “Fences,” and “The Equalizer” trilogy. Washington also excelled on Broadway, winning a Tony Award for “Fences” and directing acclaimed productions.

5. Kevin Hart – $60 million

Kevin Hart 2014.jpg Eva Rinaldi, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Kevin Darnell Hart, born July 6, 1979, is an American comedian and actor. He gained recognition after his role in the TV series Undeclared (2001). Hart’s filmography includes Paper Soldiers (2002), Scary Movie 3 (2003), Think Like a Man (2012), and the Jumanji franchise (2017–present).

He also starred in Real Husbands of Hollywood (2013–2016). Hart’s stand-up albums include I’m a Grown Little Man (2009), Seriously Funny (2010), and Let Me Explain (2013).

Time magazine listed him among the 100 most influential people in 2015. Hart launched the Laugh Out Loud Network, a streaming service, in 2017 with Lionsgate.

6. Vin Diesel – $55 millionn

Vin Diesel cropped.jpg Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mark Sinclair, known as Vin Diesel, born July 18, 1967, is a prominent American actor and producer, celebrated for his role as Dominic Toretto in the Fast & Furious series. Raised in California, he honed his craft at NYC’s Hunter College, delving into creative writing before venturing into screenwriting and filmmaking.

Diesel gained recognition with Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan (1998), followed by hits like The Pacifier (2005) and Find Me Guilty (2006). Renowned for action-packed franchises like Fast & Furious and XXX, he’s also made his mark in voice acting, notably as Groot in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Diesel is a multifaceted talent, founding production company One Race Films and engaging in ventures like Racetrack Records and Tigon Studios.

7.  Don Cheadle – $40 million

Don Cheadle at Jimmy Kimmel Live! (cropped).jpg Jimmy Kimmel, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Don Cheadle, born November 29, 1964, is an acclaimed American actor with a diverse career spanning film and television. Notable roles include “Hotel Rwanda,” “Iron Man 2,” and “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.”

He’s won multiple awards, including two Golden Globes and two Grammy Awards. Beyond acting, Cheadle is an activist, co-founding The Sentry to combat war crimes. He married Bridgid Coulter in 2020 and has two children.

His extensive filmography and awards showcase his talent and impact. Cheadle’s recent Grammy and Tony win further highlight his multifaceted contributions to entertainment.

8. Chris Pratt – $30 million

Chris Pratt. jpg Dick Thomas Johnson from Tokyo, Japan, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Christopher Michael Pratt, born June 21, 1979, is an American actor known for his role as Andy Dwyer in Parks and Recreation (2009–2015) and his appearances in Everwood (2002–2006) and films like Wanted (2008) and Moneyball (2011).

Pratt gained further prominence by starring as Star-Lord in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, starting with Guardians of the Galaxy (2014), and as Owen Grady in the Jurassic World trilogy (2015–2022).

He’s voiced lead roles in animated films such as The Lego Movie (2014) and Onward (2020). Time magazine recognized him as one of the 100 most influential people in 2015.

9. Michael B. Jordan – $25 million

Michael B. Jordan in 2017 by Gage Skidmore.jpg Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Michael Bakari Jordan, born February 9, 1987, is a prominent American actor and producer. Rising to fame with TV roles like Wallace in “The Wire” and Vince Howard in “Friday Night Lights,” he transitioned to film with notable performances in “Fruitvale Station,” “Creed,” and “Black Panther.”

Jordan also starred in “Just Mercy” and produced projects like “Fahrenheit 451.” Recognized for his influence, he was named one of Time magazine’s most influential people and People’s Sexiest Man Alive.

Additionally, he’s ranked among the greatest actors of the 21st century by The New York Times and co-owns AFC Bournemouth.

10. Morgan Freeman – $20 million

Morgan Freeman. jpgU.S. Secretary of Defense, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Morgan Freeman, born June 1, 1937, is an iconic American actor, filmmaker, and narrator renowned for his resonant voice. Over five decades, he’s garnered numerous honours, including an Academy Award and a Golden Globe.

Rising from Mississippi, he gained fame in “The Electric Company” and excelled in Shakespearean plays. Notable film roles include “Million Dollar Baby,” “The Shawshank Redemption,” and “Invictus.” Freeman also portrayed Lucius Fox in “The Dark Knight Trilogy” and starred in action films like “Wanted” and “Red.”

Renowned for narration, he’s lent his voice to documentaries like “March of the Penguins” and “Through the Wormhole.” As a director, he debuted with “Bopha!” in 1993 and co-founded Revelations Entertainment.

11. Rami Malek  – $20 million

Rami Malek. jpg Daniel Benavides from Austin, TX, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Rami Said Malek, born May 12, 1981, is an American actor known for his role in “Mr Robot” and as Freddie Mercury in “Bohemian Rhapsody,” earning him an Academy Award. Raised in Torrance, California, to Egyptian immigrant parents, Malek studied theatre and debuted in “The War at Home” and “The Pacific.”

He embraced his Egyptian heritage and struggled with cultural assimilation. Malek attended Notre Dame High School and later studied theatre at the University of Evansville, honing his skills and earning accolades. His journey reflects a commitment to his craft and a passion for storytelling.

12. Jason Statham -$18 million

Jason Statham. jpg MTV International, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jason Statham, born July 26, 1967, is an English actor renowned for his tough and gritty portrayals in action-thriller films, credited with revitalizing the genre in the 2000s and 2010s. Before acting, he practised martial arts and competed in diving for Britain’s national team.

Statham’s breakthrough came with Guy Ritchie’s crime films Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998) and Snatch (2000). He gained prominence as Frank Martin in the Transporter trilogy and starred in hits like The Italian Job (2003) and Crank (2006).

Despite some critical setbacks, he solidified his status as a leading man in Hollywood with roles in The Expendables series and the Fast & Furious franchise.

13. Tom Hiddleston – $14 million

Tom Hiddleston. jpg Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Thomas William Hiddleston, born February 9, 1981, is an English actor renowned for his portrayal of Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, spanning from “Thor” (2011) to the Disney+ series “Loki” (2021).

He began his career with Joanna Hogg’s films before gaining acclaim in Woody Allen’s “Midnight in Paris” (2011) and Steven Spielberg’s “War Horse” (2011).

Hiddleston showcased his versatility in indie films like “The Deep Blue Sea” (2012) and “Only Lovers Left Alive” (2013). He won awards for his stage work, including the Olivier Award. Notable TV roles include “The Night Manager” (2016), earning him a Golden Globe.

14. Matthew McConaughey – $10 million

Matthew McConaughey 2019 All-Pro Reels from District of Columbia, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Matthew David McConaughey, born November 4, 1969, is an American actor known for his breakout role in “Dazed and Confused” and leading roles in “A Time to Kill” and “Dallas Buyers Club,” for which he won an Academy Award.

Initially recognized for romantic comedies, he transitioned to dramatic roles in the 2010s, earning acclaim for “Magic Mike” and “Mud.” McConaughey’s versatile performances extend to television, including “True Detective,” and voice work in animated films like “Sing.” His career reflects a willingness to embrace diverse roles and challenge stereotypes.

15. Billy Bob Thornton – $8 million

Billy Bob Thornton 2017 (cropped).jpg Emmanuelle CHOUSSY, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Billy Bob Thornton, born August 4, 1955, is an American actor, writer, and director. He gained recognition for co-writing and starring in One False Move (1992) and achieved international acclaim with Sling Blade (1996), winning an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay and earning a Best Actor nomination.

In the 2000s, he starred in dramas like Monster’s Ball and comedies like Bad Santa. Thornton’s TV roles include Fargo (2014) and Goliath (2016–2021), winning a Golden Globe for the latter. He’s written and directed films such as Daddy and Them and All the Pretty Horses.

Thornton is also a singer-songwriter and has received numerous awards and nominations for his work. Despite fame, he prefers privacy and has been outspoken against celebrity culture.

16. Idris Elba – $8 million

Idris Elba-5272 (cropped).jpg Harald Krichel, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Idrissa Akuna Elba OBE, born on September 6, 1972, is an English actor, rapper, singer, and DJ. He gained fame for roles like Stringer Bell in “The Wire” and DCI John Luther in “Luther.”

Elba portrayed Nelson Mandela in “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” and Heimdall in Marvel films. His career spans TV and film, including “The Suicide Squad” and “Sonic the Hedgehog 2.”

As a DJ, he performs under the name DJ Big Driis. Elba is also involved in music production and activism. He recently released a song against knife crime and is set to perform at the Movement Electronic Music Festival.

17. Oscar Isaac – $8 million

Oscar Isaac. jpg Philip Romano, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Óscar Isaac Hernández Estrada, born March 9, 1979, is an acclaimed American actor known for breaking Latino stereotypes in Hollywood. Vanity Fair hailed him as the best actor of his generation in 2017, while The New York Times listed him among the 25 greatest actors of the 21st century in 2020.

He won a Golden Globe-earned Emmy nomination, featuring on Time’s list of the 100 most influential people in 2016. Graduating from Juilliard, Isaac’s early career saw character roles until his breakthrough in “Inside Llewyn Davis” (2013).

He starred in diverse films like “Ex Machina” (2015), the Star Wars trilogy, and TV miniseries like “Show Me a Hero” (2015) and “Moon Knight” (2022).

18. Bob Odenkirk – $8 million

Bob Odenkirk (9365157768).jpg Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Robert John Odenkirk, born October 22, 1962, is an American actor, comedian, and filmmaker renowned for his role as Saul Goodman in Breaking Bad and its spin-off Better Call Saul. He’s earned six Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for the latter.

Odenkirk co-created and starred in the HBO sketch comedy series Mr. Show with Bob and David, and won Emmy Awards for writing. He’s written for shows like Saturday Night Live and acted in The Larry Sanders Show. Odenkirk’s film credits include Nebraska, The Post, and he starred in Nobody (2021), which he also produced. 

19. Steve Carell – $ 6.5 million

Steve Carell November 2014.jpg Montclair Film Festival, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Steven John Carell, born August 16, 1962, is an American actor and comedian renowned for his portrayal of Michael Scott in the sitcom The Office (2005–2011, 2013), where he also served as a producer, executive producer, writer, and director.

Carell’s versatile career includes comedic roles in films like Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004), The 40-Year-Old Virgin (2005), and voice work in the Despicable Me franchise (2010–present). He transitioned to dramatic roles with Foxcatcher (2014), earning nominations for prestigious awards.

His notable films include Little Miss Sunshine (2006), The Big Short (2015), and more recently, he co-created Angie Tribeca (2016–2018) and starred in The Morning Show (2019–present). Additionally, he headlined the sitcom Space Force (2020–2022) and the limited series The Patient (2022).

20. Paul Rudd – $6 million

Paul Rudd (cropped) 2.jpg Red Carpet Report on Mingle Media TV from Culver City, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Paul Stephen Rudd, born April 6, 1969, is an American actor and comedian. He began his acting career in 1991 after studying theatre at the University of Kansas and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Rudd received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2015 and was featured on the Forbes Celebrity 100 list in 2019. In 2021, he earned the title of People magazine’s “Sexiest Man Alive.” His notable films include Clueless (1995), Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004), The 40-Year-Old Virgin (2005), and his role as Ant-Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Rudd has also made appearances in various television shows like Friends and Parks and Recreation, and starred in the comedy series Living with Yourself, earning a Golden Globe Award nomination.

21. Jeff Daniels – $6 million

Jeff Daniels May 2018 (cropped).jpg Montclair Film, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jeffrey Warren Daniels, born February 19, 1955, is an esteemed American actor known for his versatile performances in both comedy and drama. He’s earned numerous accolades, including two Primetime Emmy Awards and nominations for Tony Awards, Screen Actors Guild Awards, and Golden Globe Awards.

Daniels made his mark in films like Terms of Endearment (1983) and The Purple Rose of Cairo (1985). He starred in diverse genres from Speed (1994) to The Hours (2002). His TV roles include The Newsroom, for which he won an Emmy, and Godless, earning him another Emmy.

Daniels has also excelled on stage, with Tony nominations for God of Carnage, Blackbird, and To Kill a Mockingbird. He founded the Purple Rose Theatre Company in Chelsea, Michigan.

22. Henry Cavill – $6 million

Henry Cavill (48418063617) (cropped).jpg Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Henry William Dalgliesh Cavill, born May 5, 1983, is a British actor known for his roles in The Tudors, portraying Superman in the DC Extended Universe, Geralt of Rivia in The Witcher, and Sherlock Holmes in Enola Holmes and its sequel.

Cavill’s career started with roles in The Count of Monte Cristo (2002) and I Capture the Castle (2003). He appeared in TV series like The Inspector Lynley Mysteries and Midsomer Murders before starring in films like Tristan & Isolde and Stardust.

His international breakthrough came with Superman, followed by roles in The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and Mission: Impossible – Fallout.

23. Jeremy Renner – $6 million

Jeremy Renner. jpg Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jeremy Lee Renner, born January 7, 1971, is an American actor known for his diverse roles. He gained prominence with Academy Award nominations for “The Hurt Locker” and “The Town.”

Renner portrayed Clint Barton / Hawkeye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and starred in action films like “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol” and “The Bourne Legacy.” His credits include dramas such as “American Hustle” and “Wind River.”

Renner’s recent work includes the Paramount+ series “Mayor of Kingstown.” With a career spanning independent films to blockbusters, Renner has established himself as a versatile and accomplished actor.

24. Tom Hardy -$5 million

Tom Hardy (41869491050).jpg Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Edward Thomas Hardy CBE, born September 15, 1977, is a renowned English actor, producer, and screenwriter. He gained prominence with roles in “Black Hawk Down,” “Bronson,” and “Mad Max: Fury Road.”

Hardy starred as Bane in “The Dark Knight Rises” and played Eddie Brock/Venom in “Venom” and its sequel. His TV credits include “Band of Brothers,” “Peaky Blinders,” and “Taboo.”

Hardy’s stage performances earned critical acclaim, and he’s involved in charity work, serving as an ambassador for the Prince’s Trust. In 2018, he was appointed a CBE for his contributions to drama.

25. Benedict Cumberbatch – $4 million

Benedict Cumberbatch (28676197715).jpg Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Benedict Cumberbatch, born July 19, 1976, is an esteemed English actor renowned for his stage and screen performances. He’s garnered awards like the BAFTA, Emmy, and Olivier Award.

Notable for roles in “Sherlock” and “Patrick Melrose,” he also portrayed Stephen Hawking and Alan Turing, earning Academy Award nominations. His stage work includes “Hamlet” and “Frankenstein,” winning him acclaim.

In films, he’s appeared in blockbusters like “Star Trek Into Darkness,” “The Hobbit,” and the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Dr. Stephen Strange. Cumberbatch’s versatility and talent have cemented his status as one of the most influential actors of his generation.

26. Jason Bateman – $ 3.8 million

Jason Bateman Deauville 2011.jpg Georges Biard, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jason Kent Bateman, born January 14, 1969, is an American actor known for his roles in comedy films and TV series. He gained fame as Michael Bluth in Arrested Development and Marty Byrde in Ozark, earning him accolades like a Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy Award.

Bateman began his career as a child actor, appearing in shows like Little House on the Prairie and The Hogan Family. He transitioned to film with roles in Teen Wolf Too and Necessary Roughness before starring in comedies like Horrible Bosses, and Identity Thief, and drama films like The Gift.

Bateman also directs; his works include The Family Fang and Ozark, for which he won awards. He co-hosts the comedy podcast SmartLess and had a recurring role in The Outsider.

27. Simu Liu – $2 million

Simu Liu by Gage Skidmore.jpg Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Simu Liu, born April 19, 1989, is a Canadian actor best known for Shang-Chi in the Marvel film, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. He starred in Kim’s Convenience and authored the memoir We Were Dreamers. Liu’s acting career began with roles in television series like Blood and Water.

He transitioned to main roles in Kim’s Convenience and appeared in other shows like Taken and The Expanse. Liu made his mark in films like Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Bright: Samurai Soul. He is also a filmmaker, writer, and UNICEF Canada Ambassador.

28. Mads Mikkelsen – $1.1 million

Mads Mikkelsen Cannes 2016.jpg Georges Biard, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mads Dittmann Mikkelsen, born November 22, 1965, is a Danish actor known for his diverse roles in film, television, and gaming. He gained fame in Denmark with notable performances in Pusher, Rejseholdet, and Open Hearts.

Mikkelsen achieved global recognition as Le Chiffre in Casino Royale and as Dr. Hannibal Lecter in the TV series Hannibal. His repertoire includes award-winning portrayals such as Lucas in The Hunt and Martin in Another Round.

Additionally, he’s appeared in Marvel’s Doctor Strange, and Rogue One, and will portray Gellert Grindelwald in Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore. Mikkelsen is celebrated as both a character actor and a Danish cinema icon.

29. Sterling K. Brown – $1 million

Sterling K. Brown by Gage Skidmore.jpg Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Sterling Kelby Brown, born April 5, 1976, is a distinguished American actor, acclaimed with three Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe. Time magazine named him among the 100 most influential people in 2018.

Notable for his role as Christopher Darden in The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story and as Randall Pearson in This Is Us, earning Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe. Brown displayed versatility in leading roles in films like Hotel Artemis and Honk for Jesus.

Save Your Soul., and voice roles in The Angry Birds Movie 2 and Frozen II. He shone in supporting roles in films like Marshall, Black Panther, Waves, and American Fiction, earning an Academy Award nomination.

30. John Boyega – $1 million

SDCC 2015 – John Boyega (19653773136).jpg Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

John Boyega, born March 17, 1992, is a British actor known for his roles in “Attack the Block” and as Finn in the Star Wars sequel trilogy. He won a BAFTA Rising Star Award and a Golden Globe for “Red, White and Blue” in Steve McQueen’s “Small Axe” anthology. Boyega formed UpperRoom Entertainment and produced “Pacific Rim: Uprising.”

His activism includes supporting Black Lives Matter. He criticized Disney for sidelining his character in Star Wars. Boyega starred in “The Woman King” and “They Cloned Tyrone.” He won awards for “Small Axe” and earned nominations for his Star Wars performances.

The intersection of talent and financial prosperity among the highest-paid TV actors in 2023 provides insight into the ever-evolving entertainment industry. From seasoned veterans to up-and-coming talents, their collective impact highlights the timeless fascination and influential nature of storytelling.