How Much Do NCIS Actors Earn Per Episode?
Exact figures are often kept under wraps, but industry insiders suggest that top-tier NCIS actors can make between $200,000 and $500,000 per episode. That’s a hefty paycheck, especially considering that the show typically films around 24 episodes per season. For actors who’ve stayed on the show for multiple seasons, this can add up to millions of dollars in just a single year. For example, Mark Harmon, who played Leroy Jethro Gibbs, was reportedly among the highest-paid actors on the show before his departure, earning close to half a million dollars per episode in later seasons.
While it's unclear how much newer cast members like Katrina Law or Brian Dietzen make, it’s safe to assume they’re earning well into the six figures per episode, especially as the show continues to maintain strong ratings. The structure of actor contracts on long-running shows like NCIS often includes tiered pay raises based on the number of seasons an actor remains on the series. So, the longer they stay, the more they earn — and in some cases, they might also negotiate for additional profit participation or syndication royalties.
What Factors Influence NCIS Actors’ Pay?
Several factors play into how much NCIS actors are paid. First and foremost is their role in the series — leads naturally earn more than supporting cast members. The length of time they’ve been with the show also matters. Actors who’ve been part of NCIS for multiple seasons often see significant pay increases, especially if their characters become fan favorites or take on more central roles in the plot.
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Another major factor is syndication royalties. Once a show reaches a certain number of episodes, it can be sold into syndication, and actors can receive residual payments every time an episode reruns. For a show like NCIS, which has over 400 episodes, that kind of residual income can be substantial. Additionally, some actors might negotiate for backend deals, giving them a cut of the show’s profits beyond just their base salary. This is especially common for actors who serve as producers or have a creative stake in the show.
Do Guest Stars on NCIS Earn Less Than Regular Cast Members?
Yes, guest stars typically earn less than the main cast. According to industry standards, a guest actor on a network drama like NCIS can expect to earn between $3,000 and $10,000 per day, depending on their role and experience. If they appear in multiple episodes, they might be upgraded to a recurring role, which comes with higher pay and better contract terms.
However, some well-known actors who make guest appearances might command higher fees, especially if they’re leveraging their star power. But even then, it’s a far cry from what the main cast earns. Guest roles are usually short-lived, and while they offer exposure, they don’t come with the same financial benefits as being a regular cast member. Still, for up-and-coming actors or those looking to make a splash in a popular series, a guest spot on NCIS is often seen as a valuable opportunity.
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How Has NCIS Actors’ Pay Changed Over the Years?
As with most long-running TV shows, the salaries of NCIS actors have increased significantly over time. In the early seasons, actors were reportedly earning much less than they do now. For example, in Season 1, some main cast members were making around $15,000 to $20,000 per episode. Fast forward to later seasons, and those numbers had risen to well over $200,000 — and in some cases, nearly half a million dollars per episode.
This increase is due to a combination of factors, including the actors' growing popularity, the show’s continued success, and their leverage in contract negotiations. Some actors, like David McCallum (who played Dr. Donald Mallard, or Ducky), were able to secure raises not just for themselves but also for their co-stars by using their industry clout. As the show gained traction and entered syndication, the actors were in a stronger position to demand better compensation, especially those who’d been with the series since the beginning.
Why Do Some NCIS Actors Earn More Than Others?
Not all actors on NCIS are paid equally — and there’s a good reason for that. Lead actors, especially those who are also executive producers or have been with the show the longest, tend to earn the highest salaries. Their roles are central to the show’s storyline, and their presence is a major draw for viewers. As a result, they’re in a stronger position to negotiate for higher pay.
Additionally, some actors may have better representation or stronger bargaining power. For instance, actors with previous hit shows or a strong industry reputation might be able to command higher rates. There’s also the matter of timing — actors who joined the cast later may not have the same kind of long-term contract benefits as those who’ve been around since the beginning.
What About the Syndication Bonanza for NCIS Actors?
One of the most lucrative aspects of being on a long-running hit like NCIS is the syndication money. Once a show hits around 100 episodes, it can be sold into syndication, and actors can earn residual payments every time an episode airs. For a show with over 400 episodes, this can be a major source of income for the main cast.
So, even if an actor leaves the show, they can continue to earn money from past episodes airing in reruns. Syndication royalties can be especially valuable for actors who played major roles early on. This residual income can sometimes be more valuable than their original salary, especially for actors who remained on the show for a long time. It’s one of the reasons why staying on a hit show like NCIS for many seasons can be financially rewarding in the long run.
How Do NCIS Actors’ Paychecks Compare to Other Crime Dramas?
When it comes to actor salaries on crime dramas, NCIS is definitely on the higher end. Compared to other long-running CBS shows like Law & Order: SVU or The Good Wife, NCIS actors tend to make similar or sometimes even higher salaries, especially in later seasons. Mariska Hargitay, for instance, reportedly earns around $450,000 per episode for her role on SVU, which is on par with what some NCIS leads were making.
What sets NCIS apart is its sheer volume of episodes — more than 400 and counting. That means actors have more opportunities to earn over time. Additionally, the show has spawned multiple spin-offs, including NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, and NCIS: Hawaii, each of which has its own cast and pay structure. While the actors in these spin-offs may not earn as much as their D.C. counterparts, they still enjoy solid paychecks thanks to the NCIS brand’s strength.
Is NCIS Actors’ Pay Affected by Syndication Deals?
Yes, syndication plays a major role in how much NCIS actors earn. Syndication rights can be incredibly valuable, and actors who remain on the show long enough to qualify for residuals can benefit for years. Syndication deals are typically negotiated by the studio and network, but actors are often able to secure a cut of the profits through their contracts.
This is especially true for actors who’ve been with the show since its early days. Syndication royalties can sometimes be more valuable than their original salary, particularly if the show continues to air in reruns long after production ends. For example, actors from classic shows like Friends or Seinfeld continue to earn millions annually from syndication. While it’s unclear exactly how much NCIS actors earn from reruns, it’s safe to assume that those with long-standing roles are reaping significant financial rewards.
What Role Do Negotiations Play in NCIS Actors’ Pay?
Contract negotiations are a big part of how much NCIS actors are paid. The longer an actor stays on the show, the more leverage they have in negotiating higher salaries, backend deals, or profit participation. Some actors, like Mark Harmon, were able to negotiate not only for themselves but also for their co-stars, especially as the show became a ratings powerhouse.
These negotiations can sometimes get tense, especially when actors feel they’re not being compensated fairly. In some cases, actors might threaten to leave the show unless their salary demands are met. However, given the collaborative nature of the NCIS cast and crew, most contract disputes are handled behind the scenes without major disruptions to production. Still, the ability to negotiate a better deal often depends on an actor’s popularity, their role in the show, and the overall success of the series.
What About NCIS Spin-Offs? Do Their Actors Get Similar Pay?
While the main NCIS cast in Washington, D.C. tends to earn the highest salaries, actors on the spin-offs like NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: Hawaii typically earn less. That said, they still make a comfortable living, especially considering the popularity of these offshoots.
For example, LL Cool J and Chris O’Donnell, stars of NCIS: Los Angeles, reportedly earn around $200,000 to $300,000 per episode. That’s lower than what the top NCIS D.C. actors make but still quite high by industry standards. Similarly, the cast of NCIS: Hawaii likely earns in the six figures per episode, though exact numbers aren’t widely known. Syndication royalties for spin-off actors may not be as high as those for the original NCIS cast, but they still benefit from the show’s global reach and continued syndication.
How Do Actor Contracts Work on a Show That’s Been Around So Long?
For a show that’s been on the air for over two decades, NCIS has had to manage a wide variety of actor contracts over the years. Some actors have been with the show since the very beginning, while others have joined in later seasons. Contracts are typically negotiated on a season-by-season basis, though some actors might sign multi-season deals to ensure continuity.
These contracts often include performance bonuses, renewal incentives, and clauses that allow for raises based on the show’s continued success. Syndication bonuses are also a common feature in contracts for actors who’ve been around for a significant number of episodes. While the exact structure of these contracts is confidential, the long-term success of NCIS has allowed many of its actors to secure stable, high-paying roles for years — and in some cases, decades.
Do NCIS Actors Earn Money from Merchandise Sales?
While it’s rare for actors to receive direct compensation from merchandise sales, they can benefit indirectly. Popular shows like NCIS often have a wide range of merchandise, from apparel to collectibles, and while the actors themselves don’t typically get a cut of those sales, the show’s popularity helps keep them in the public eye — which can lead to other endorsement deals or opportunities.
In some cases, actors might be approached for brand partnerships or appearances that capitalize on their NCIS fame. These opportunities can provide additional income outside of their regular salaries. However, merchandise royalties are usually handled by the studio or network, and actors aren’t typically entitled to a share unless they’ve negotiated for it specifically. Still, being part of a globally recognized brand like NCIS can open doors to lucrative opportunities beyond just acting.
What About Retirement or Leaving the Show? Do Actors Get Paid After They Leave?
Once an actor leaves NCIS, they typically don’t receive a salary for new episodes unless they make a guest appearance. However, they can still earn money from syndication royalties if their contract includes residual payments. Syndication is a major financial boon for actors who’ve been on the show for many seasons, as they continue to receive payments every time an episode airs in reruns.
For example, actors like Sasha Alexander or Michael Weatherly, who left the show years ago, likely still earn money from syndication. This kind of residual income can be significant, especially for actors who played major roles and were part of the show for multiple seasons. While they’re no longer on set, their past work continues to generate income — a testament to the enduring popularity of NCIS.
How Do Actor Pay Structures Work on Network TV Shows Like NCIS?
On network TV shows like NCIS, actor pay structures are typically based on a combination of per-episode fees, contract negotiations, and syndication royalties. Lead actors usually earn the most, while supporting players and guest stars receive lower rates. The longer an actor stays on the show, the more they can expect to earn, especially if they’re able to negotiate for raises or backend deals.
Additionally, actors who also serve as executive producers or have creative input often earn more due to their expanded roles. Syndication plays a major role in long-term earnings, and actors who’ve been on the show for many seasons can continue to earn money long after they’ve left. The structure is designed to reward longevity and popularity, which is why many actors on long-running shows like NCIS can secure significant earnings over time.
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