Sometimes well-known actors and actresses accept really small paychecks to take part in movies. This can be at the start of their careers or later on. When actors and actresses are first starting out, it is pretty common for them to take a small paycheck because any job is an opportunity to launch their careers. Later on, it can be because they want to work on small indie projects that don’t have large budgets. These indie roles can sometimes end up shooting them to superstardom, which means big paychecks in the near future. We have 7 well-known actors and actresses have earned very little for successful movie gigs.
7. Mel Gibson – Mad Max
For a while, Mel Gibson owned Hollywood. He made loads of money and he did whatever he wanted – both on and off screen. That eventually came to an end thanks to his well-documented racist and violent outbursts. Now he doesn’t have much a career. Back before he became the huge star that we remember, he wasn’t exactly well established or well paid. Like many actors, he had to prove himself.
Take Gibson’s role in “Mad Max.” He only made $15,000. This was way back in 1979, so it may sound like a lot of money; however, it really wasn’t considering that the film’s budget was $400,000 and it ended up bringing in $5 million at the box office. This just goes to show you that all actors and actresses have to start somewhere. Taking a little paycheck at the beginning can mean bigger paychecks later, if you prove yourself.
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