* The show's popularity and budget: Big, successful shows have more money to spend on talent.
* The actor's experience and fame: Established stars with a strong track record command higher salaries.
* The role: Lead actors get paid significantly more than supporting actors.
* The type of show: A network drama will pay more than a low-budget reality show.
* Whether the actor is part of the cast or a guest star: Guest stars often get paid per episode, and their rates vary.
Here are some general examples:
* Established TV stars: Can earn millions per episode on popular shows.
* Mid-level actors: Might earn tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands per episode depending on their role and the show.
* Beginning actors: Might be paid minimum wage or just get a per diem on a low-budget show.
It's important to note that:
* Many actors have contracts that specify a base salary plus bonuses for hitting specific ratings or milestones.
* There are also residuals, which are payments actors receive each time a show is re-run or sold internationally.
* Many actors also have side hustles and endorsements that contribute to their income.
In short, the salary of a TV actor is very complex and varies greatly depending on many factors.