2025 has brought unexpected challenges for Hollywood’s biggest stars, with actors’ gross earnings declining alarmingly. While the bigwigs maintain their appeal, the real winners are those who take advantage of streaming platforms, where the deals are not only lucrative, but also reliable. Adam Sandler’s massive contract with Netflix is a testament to the evolving landscape where digital streaming reigns supreme.
The pay hierarchy in Hollywood is huge, and the 2025 numbers show a clear shift. Big stars still get huge checks, yet fewer actor-led films have turned into credible box office victories.Furthermore, the total earnings of the 20 highest-paid actors fell to US$590 million from US$730 million, according to Forbes.
Movie star salaries in 2025
According to Forbes, Adam Sandler topped the 2025 list with $48 million after fees, well below last year’s high of $88 million. The report notes that streaming remains the safest home for many stars, with Netflix’s long-term deal with Sandler continuing to set the pace. The director’s new rating suggests that even though movie star power may be flagging at the box office, it’s still important for studios to build a package around the film.
Broadcast deals versus theatrical box office
Universal has put Scarlett Johansson in Jurassic World: Rebirth, and Apple has backed Brad Pitt in F1, two of the biggest hits of the year. Marvel also turned to Robert Downey Jr. for Avengers: Doomsday, with damages estimated at more than $100 million across two films. Studios clearly still believe that household names attract attention, even when they can’t guarantee their success.However, live streaming provides the most consistent protection. Sandler has remained safe at Netflix.
Denzel Washington got a huge deal for ‘Highest 2 Lowest’. Daniel Craig has continued to cash in on Netflix’s “Knives Out” franchise. Mark Wahlberg, who has starred in projects for Amazon and Apple, has emerged as a premier force in the streaming space. Meanwhile, Millie Bobby Brown has become the clearest example of a streaming homegrown star crossing into elite salary territory.The list also shows how uneven star power has become. Leonardo DiCaprio’s “Battle After Battle” fell short of its usual standards, but its value remained strong.
Glen Powell and Sidney Sweeney earned solid pay up front, but still face questions about their long-term banking ability. Timothée Chalamet, Michael B. Jordan, and Zendaya look set to join the top tier next.
The 20 highest-paid actors of 2025 by total earnings:
• Adam Sandler – $60 million gross• Tom Cruise – $54 million gross• Mark Wahlberg – $58 million gross• Scarlett Johansson – $50 million gross• Brad Pitt – $54 million gross• Denzel Washington – $42 million gross• Jack Black – $33 million gross• Jason Momoa – $33 million gross• Daniel Craig – $32 million gross• Millie Bobby Brown – $35 million gross• John Cena – $35 million total• Reese Witherspoon – $34 million gross• George Clooney – $30 million gross• Leonardo DiCaprio – $29 million gross• Rob Mac – $30 million gross• Chris Pratt – $29 million gross• Tom Hardy – $28 million gross• Jennifer Aniston – $26 million gross• Cameron Diaz – $23 million gross• Jason Bateman – $25 million gross
