Summary
In 2025, Netflix has continued its trend of investing in big-name stars to lead its most-watched original films and series. Topping the list is Millie Bobby Brown, who earned $12 million through starring roles and production deals. Following her are major talents like Henry Cavill ($10M), Jenna Ortega ($9.5M), Chris Hemsworth ($9M), and Gal Gadot ($8.5M). The rest of the top earners include Adam Sandler, Charlize Theron, Pedro Pascal, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Idris Elba, all earning between $6.5M and $8M.
Netflix has been on a roll in 2025, releasing blockbuster films and chart-topping series that dominate global viewership. But behind every successful title are the A-list stars who bring the stories to life—and they’re being paid handsomely for it.
From action-packed dramas to emotional thrillers, the streaming giant isn’t holding back when it comes to compensating its top talent. But who’s earning the most this year? Let’s dive into the Top 10 Highest Paid Netflix Actors of 2025 (so far) and find out how these stars are turning screen time into serious bank.
Millie Bobby Brown – $12 Million
It’s no surprise that Millie Bobby Brown tops the list. Thanks to her leading roles in Stranger Things and the upcoming Damsel sequel, Millie is Netflix royalty. Her production deal with the platform also gives her creative control and backend profits, making her one of the highest-paid young actresses in the world.
Fun Fact: She’s also one of the youngest producers ever to strike a deal with Netflix.
Henry Cavill – $10 Million
Although Henry Cavill bid farewell to The Witcher, he made a big comeback in 2025 with a spy-thriller Netflix original, Argylle: Retribution. His upfront payment reportedly hit $10 million, thanks to his global fanbase and action-hero credentials.
Bonus: Cavill is rumored to be in talks for a major Netflix series reboot, adding more fuel to the paycheck fire.
Jenna Ortega – $9.5 Million
Wednesday may have debuted in 2022, but Jenna Ortega’s reign continues. With Wednesday Season 2 trending globally, Ortega reportedly earned $250,000 per episode, plus backend bonuses, bringing her total earnings to nearly $9.5 million in 2025 alone.
Why it matters: Her popularity with Gen Z has turned her into a Netflix icon and a brand unto herself.
Chris Hemsworth – $9 Million
Extraction 3 brought back the muscles, mayhem, and massive paycheck for Chris Hemsworth. As both lead actor and executive producer, Hemsworth banked a cool $9 million. Netflix sees him as a reliable action star who guarantees global appeal.
Noteworthy: He’s now reportedly developing a post-apocalyptic series with Netflix for 2026.
Gal Gadot – $8.5 Million
Following her 2023 hit Heart of Stone, Gal Gadot returned in 2025 with a suspense-action thriller Nightfall Protocol. Her fee? A whopping $8.5 million. Gadot continues to balance grace and grit in every role, making her a favorite among Netflix executives.
Quick note: She’s also a producer on the film, which bumps her earnings even higher with backend profits.
Adam Sandler – $8 Million
Comedy king Adam Sandler remains a top Netflix earner in 2025, starring in You Are So Not Invited to My Bar Mitzvah 2 and Murder Mystery 3. His long-standing production deal with Netflix ensures he gets upfront salaries and residuals, raking in over $8 million this year.
Fun Fact: Sandler’s original films consistently rank in Netflix’s global Top 10.
Charlize Theron – $7.5 Million
Returning to Netflix in The Old Guard 2: Redemption, Charlize Theron earned $7.5 million for reprising her role as the immortal warrior. Her involvement as a producer helped negotiate a higher salary, adding even more to her Netflix earnings.
Why it’s cool: Theron’s mix of dramatic and action roles keeps her relevant across multiple demographics.
Pedro Pascal – $7 Million
The Last of Us and The Mandalorian star joined Netflix’s 2025 political thriller Shadow Cabinet, pocketing $7 million. Pedro Pascal’s intense performances and rising profile have made him a must-have actor for prestige projects.
Behind the scenes: Netflix reportedly paid top dollar to outbid rivals like Apple TV+ and Prime Video.
Anya Taylor-Joy – $6.8 Million
After her breakout success in The Queen’s Gambit, Anya Taylor-Joy returned in 2025 with The Pale Garden, a sci-fi horror film that went viral. She earned $6.8 million, including a share of streaming bonuses based on performance metrics.
Interesting detail: Her film had the highest opening weekend streams for a horror release on Netflix this year.
Idris Elba – $6.5 Million
Rounding out our list is Idris Elba, who starred in Luther: Genesis, a gritty crime spin-off exclusive to Netflix. His compelling performance and international draw helped him earn $6.5 million, including executive producer fees.
Why we love it: Elba’s charisma and range keep audiences coming back, whether it’s action, drama, or detective noir.
Conclusion
As streaming competition heats up in 2025, Netflix is doubling down on star power to keep its crown. From fan favorites like Millie Bobby Brown and Jenna Ortega to Hollywood heavyweights like Chris Hemsworth and Charlize Theron, these actors are not just entertaining the world—they’re cashing massive checks along the way.
Their deals represent more than just talent; they’re about global appeal, production partnerships, and long-term brand building. As Netflix continues to pump out original content, expect these numbers—and the stars’ bank accounts—to only get bigger.
Also Read : The Batman 2: Script Finished – What to Expect from the Dark Knight’s Next Chapter
FAQs
1. Who is the highest paid Netflix actor in 2025?
Millie Bobby Brown currently holds the top spot with $12 million in earnings from Netflix projects this year.
2. How much does Jenna Ortega earn per episode of Wednesday?
In 2025, Jenna Ortega earns approximately $250,000 per episode, with bonuses pushing her total to $9.5 million.
3. Are Netflix actors paid more than movie actors in theaters?
In many cases, yes. Netflix pays high upfront fees to secure top talent, especially for global hits.
4. Does Netflix pay actors bonuses based on viewership?
Yes, many Netflix deals include performance bonuses based on streaming data and global rankings.
5. Is Netflix planning to cut back on actor salaries?
As of mid-2025, there are no confirmed cutbacks. With viewership and revenue climbing, Netflix continues to invest heavily in big-name talent.
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