How Much Did Arya Stark Make Per Episode? (And Why It Matters More Than You Think)
Okay, let’s be real for a second. You’re not here to learn about the intricate workings of the Hollywood salary system, are you? You’re here because you’re probably picturing Arya Stark, all badass and brooding, with a stack of cash that would make even Tywin Lannister jealous. And who can blame you? The girl could take down a whole army with a well-placed dagger, so surely she’s raking in the gold, right?
Well, hold your horses, Westeros-obsessed comrades. The reality of Arya’s earnings is a tad more complicated than a simple “How much?” question.
So, how much did Arya Stark actually make per episode?
The answer, my friend, is a bit of a rollercoaster. While sources suggest that Maisie Williams, the actress who brought Arya to life, earned a cool $175,000 per episode in the early seasons, her paychecks got a significant bump as the show gained popularity. By season 8, reports indicate she was making a whopping $253,000 per episode.
But hold on a second, isn’t that a bit low compared to the other big names?
You’re absolutely right. We’re talking about Game of Thrones, a show that redefined television, a show that spawned memes, a show that had the world holding its breath for the final season. You’d think the stars would be swimming in enough gold to buy their own dragon, wouldn’t you? Well, not quite.
While the show’s main cast, including Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen) and Kit Harington (Jon Snow), were reportedly earning a hefty $500,000 per episode towards the end of the show, the younger actors, including Maisie Williams, Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark), and Isaac Hempstead-Wright (Bran Stark) were paid significantly less.
Why the discrepancy?
It’s a mix of factors, my friend. You’ve got experience, seniority, and, let’s face it, the ruthless world of Hollywood negotiations. The older, more established actors in the cast, having already proven their box office draw and negotiation skills, commanded a higher price. And let’s be honest, a few years of experience in the Game of Thrones universe doesn’t quite compare to the years of experience and awards some of the other actors had under their belts.
So, is this unfair?
Now, here’s where things get interesting. While it’s tempting to cry “foul” and declare this a case of Hollywood injustice, let’s consider the bigger picture. The Game of Thrones cast, especially the younger actors, were catapulted to international fame through their roles in the show. They were given a golden opportunity to establish their careers, build their brands, and launch into a whole new world of opportunities.
Think about it: Maisie Williams went from a young actress to a global icon, a brand ambassador for several companies, and a rising star in the film industry. She’s even landed roles in films like “The New Mutants” and “The Electrical Life of Louis Wain.”
So, while her initial salary might not have matched the big guns, it’s important to remember that the Game of Thrones experience was a springboard for her career. It’s a stepping stone, a chance to prove her talent and build a formidable career path.
But let’s not forget the humor in all of this!
Imagine Arya running around Westeros, wielding her Needle with one hand and balancing a ledger in the other, meticulously calculating her take-home pay after taxes. The scene is hilarious, almost as funny as Bran’s “The Three-Eyed Raven” look after all those seasons.
The takeaway?
The salary disparities in Game of Thrones are just a reflection of the real-world complexities of Hollywood paychecks. While the younger stars might not have been rolling in dough like the seasoned veterans, their experiences on the show opened doors that led to a whole new level of success. And hey, who wouldn’t want to trade a fat paycheck for a chance to become a global icon and build a career that spans generations?
So, the next time you see Arya Stark take down her enemies with a flick of her wrist, remember, she’s not just a skilled assassin, she’s a shrewd businesswoman with a bright future ahead of her. And that, my friends, is a story worth celebrating.
