‘Orange Is the New Black’ Supporting Cast Express Concerns Over Compensation for Netflix Hit.
As the popular series ‘Orange Is the New Black celebrates its 10th anniversary since its premiere, the supporting cast members have raised questions about their fair compensation. In a recent New Yorker article, ten recurring stars, including Kimiko Glenn, Alysia Reiner, and Taryn Manning, spoke out about being paid significantly less than the SAG day rate during the show’s early seasons. This issue aligns with the ongoing negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) regarding streaming compensation. Additionally, the cast members discuss pay disparities among non-minority actors and the limited residuals they have received since the series concluded in 2019.
Section 1: Unfair Compensation and Financial Struggles
During the initial seasons of ‘Orange Is the New Black,’ many supporting cast members were paid the “absolute bare minimum” SAG day rate, less than $1,000 per episode. Despite the show’s global success and critical acclaim, several actors, including Emma Myles and Diane Guerrero, had to maintain day jobs throughout the series’ run. The cast members also highlight the pay disparity between themselves and the non-minority actors and express disappointment over the meager residuals they have received since the show’s conclusion.
Section 2: Personal Accounts of Financial Hardships
Some cast members, like Kimiko Glenn, shared their personal experiences related to the show. Glenn’s TikTok video, which revealed receiving only $27.30 in overseas royalties, went viral and garnered support from fellow cast members Matt McGorry and Beth Dover.
Section 3: Discontentment and Calls for Fair Compensation
Many cast members express frustration about the lack of fair compensation, particularly in light of the show’s immense popularity. The New Yorker article highlights the stark contrast between the reported $200,000 per episode earnings of the series regulars and the maximum of $15,000 received by the supporting cast members. The cast members also criticize Netflix for boasting about its profitability to shareholders while seemingly neglecting to provide adequate compensation to its actors. The substantial salary increase of Netflix’s co-CEO, Ted Sarandos, is cited as an example of the perceived inequity.
Section 4: Reflection and Gratitude Amidst Controversy
Despite the grievances expressed, Ted Sarandos and some cast members took to social media to acknowledge the show’s groundbreaking impact and express gratitude for its opportunities. Sarandos praised the series for embracing diversity and sharing nuanced stories about marginalized communities. It is worth noting that Netflix, Lionsgate, and other parties declined to comment on the matter in the New Yorker article.
‘Orange Is the New Black’ emerged as a trailblazing series that contributed significantly to Netflix’s success. However, the supporting cast members’ recent revelations about unfair compensation have shed light on their challenges throughout the show’s run. As negotiations continue between SAG-AFTRA and industry representatives, it remains to be seen whether these concerns will be addressed and whether compensation practices for actors in streaming platforms will undergo significant changes.
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