6 of the highest-paid television stars

We're lucky enough to be spoiled for choice when it comes to TV shows, as there are countless to choose from. However, due to such rapid growth within this industry, it has become necessary for networks and providers to make an active effort to bring in audiences. Due to this competition, artist salaries have become higher than ever before.

Compiled from Business Insider, here is a list of six highly-paid actors and their salaries per episode.

1. Reese Witherspoon

Actor Reese Witherspoon apparently managed to reach terms on a $1 million salary deal for the upcoming season of HBO's Emmy-winning drama, Big Little Lies. Yes, that's $1 million per episode.

2. Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons who plays the role of Sheldon Cooper in The Big Bang Theory also earns a whopping $1 million per episode. He recently grabbed headlines for turning down an alleged $50 million paycheck for two more seasons of the sitcom which will end in 2019.

3. Dwayne Johnson

American comedy series Ballers sees Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson in the role of Spencer Strasmore, a retired NFL player turned financial manager. He is said to receive a paycheck of $650,000 for each installment.

4. Norman Reedus

Norman Reedus, who plays Daryl Dixon in hit horror drama The Walking Dead, also earns $650,000 per episode.

5. Ellen Pompeo

Grey's Anatomy has been running for over a decade and is watched by many. Although the stars may not be earning as much as the $1 million mark, the salaries are still up there. Ellen Pompeo, seen as Meredith Grey on the show is paid $575,000 for each installment.

6. Kit Harington



HBO's Game of Thrones has seen immense popularity in recent times and on top of that, co-stars Kit Harington and Rose Leslie tied the knot this past June, creating more of a buzz. Harington, who plays Jon Snow, earns $500,000 per episode.

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