As the highly anticipated fourth season of ‘Succession’ beckons, fans worldwide are buzzing with excitement to re-enter the opulent, cutthroat, and utterly dysfunctional world of the Roy family. A world where power is currency, loyalty is fleeting, and money — vast, staggering sums of it — is the ultimate language. While the fictional billions commanded by Waystar RoyCo execs might seem like a distant dream, the real-life paychecks now being cashed by the talented ensemble behind our favorite characters are nothing short of breathtaking in the landscape of television salaries.
Indeed, the success of ‘Succession’ has not just been critical; it’s been a financial juggernaut for its stars. What began with initial salaries of under $100,000 per episode for the key players in Season 1, according to a 2020 Hollywood Reporter source, rapidly transformed. The show’s soaring popularity, especially during the pandemic, created a prime opportunity for the cast to renegotiate their fees ahead of the third season, turning modest sums into figures that would make even a Roy raise an eyebrow.
In a move that mirrors the fiercely individualistic spirit of the Roy clan, the cast members largely negotiated their pay individually, rather than as a collective unit, as some ensemble shows do. This strategy paid off handsomely, with the main cast appearing to secure similar per-episode rates for the 2021 season, setting them firmly in the upper echelons of TV earners. Except, of course, for one formidable patriarch, who, much like his on-screen persona, commanded a superior rate. Let’s dive into the unbelievable fortunes these actors now demand and the impressive net worths they’ve built.
1. **Brian Cox (Logan Roy)**It comes as no surprise that the actor portraying the indomitable head of the Roy empire, Logan Roy, also happens to be the highest-paid member of the ‘Succession’ cast. Brian Cox, the Scottish acting titan, negotiated an astounding salary of $400,000 to $500,000 for each episode of ‘Succession’ season 3. With nine episodes in the third season, this translates to a mind-boggling total salary anywhere between $3.6 million to $4.5 million just for that single season alone. This places his earnings squarely on par with what ‘Game of Thrones’ stars like Kit Harington and Emilia Clarke were commanding by their final season, a testament to Cox’s star power and the show’s undeniable impact.
Cox’s real-life financial prowess extends far beyond ‘Succession.’ According to Celebrity Net Worth, his net worth stands at a cool $15 million, making him the wealthiest actor among the main cast. This substantial fortune is a culmination of an extremely prolific career spanning over five decades, with hundreds of credits to his name across stage, film, and television. His role as Logan Roy, which earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Drama Series and a Primetime Emmy nomination, is undeniably a crowning achievement, but it builds upon a lifetime of impactful performances.
Reflecting on the show’s profound success, Cox shared with IndieWire that he recognized something truly “special” about the series from the moment creator Jesse Armstrong presented him with the opportunity. He noted, “I just knew that it had something very special about it, particularly in this time and dealing with the level of dysfunctionality we are witnessing all around us, particularly in our leadership in this country and certainly our leadership in the United Kingdom.” His insight highlights the show’s timeliness and its piercing social commentary, which resonated deeply with audiences globally.
Beyond the serious thematic elements, Cox also recognized the show’s multifaceted appeal, describing it as having “a very strong satirical element to it, but it’s not just that. It’s Shakespearean and it’s ambitious.” He admitted his surprise at such a project coming along and his immediate sense that it was “a potential winner.” This blend of high drama, sharp wit, and a touch of the classical clearly captivated him, just as it did millions of viewers, solidifying his belief in the project that would make him the highest-paid among his talented colleagues.
2. **Alan Ruck (Connor Roy)**Among the Roy siblings, Alan Ruck, who portrays the eldest, Connor Roy, holds a surprising distinction in the real-life wealth rankings. While many might not expect him to be the sibling with the largest net worth outside of the show’s immediate earnings, his extensive and iconic career has positioned him remarkably well. For ‘Succession’ season 3, Alan Ruck also saw a significant pay bump, earning between $300,000 and $350,000 for each episode, translating to an impressive seasonal income of approximately $2.7 million to $3 million.
However, it’s Ruck’s illustrious career predating ‘Succession’ that truly underpins his substantial net worth. Celebrity Net Worth estimates his fortune at $12 million, placing him second only to Brian Cox among the core cast. This wealth isn’t solely from his recent success but is a testament to decades in the industry, including his iconic role as Cameron Frye in the beloved 1980s classic ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.’ That film alone cemented his place in cinematic history and continues to generate recognition.
Beyond ‘Ferris Bueller,’ Ruck has graced numerous other memorable projects. His filmography boasts roles in fan favorites such as ‘Speed,’ ‘Star Trek Generations,’ and ‘Twister,’ each contributing to his enduring presence in Hollywood. On the television front, he was a key part of the ensemble cast of ‘Spin City,’ a popular sitcom that ran for several seasons, providing a steady stream of income and visibility for many years. These diverse roles ensured a financially lucrative career long before Waystar RoyCo ever graced our screens.
Interestingly, the context also humorously mentions his role in ‘Bunheads,’ suggesting, “which is where I assume most of his millions came from.” While likely a lighthearted jest, it underscores the breadth of his work. Alan Ruck’s journey illustrates that long-standing careers with iconic roles and consistent work can build significant wealth, demonstrating that sometimes, the ‘Roy sibling’ who appears least concerned with the family business might just be the most financially stable in real life, thanks to a rich and varied portfolio of acting endeavors.
3. **Jeremy Strong (Kendall Roy)**Jeremy Strong, celebrated for his intense and nuanced portrayal of the troubled ‘family black sheep’ Kendall Roy, has also seen his personal fortune skyrocket with the success of ‘Succession.’ For the show’s third season, Strong’s estimated earnings per episode ranged between $300,000 and $350,000. Given his Emmy-winning performance, it’s reasonable to assume his salary leaned towards the higher end of this scale, potentially reaching up to $3,150,000 for the season, a massive leap from his earlier paydays.
Prior to the widespread acclaim and renegotiations, Strong reportedly earned $100,000 per episode for ‘Succession’ seasons 1 and 2. With each of those seasons consisting of 10 episodes, his total yearly salary at the time would have been around $1 million per season. This substantial increase for Season 3 demonstrates the immense leverage that critical success and a strong fan following can provide for actors in highly popular series, positioning him among the show’s top earners.
Strong’s net worth, as reported by Celebrity Net Worth, stands at $6 million. While a significant portion of this undoubtedly comes from his millions made in the latter seasons of ‘Succession,’ his career portfolio includes a string of critically acclaimed film roles that have also contributed significantly to his financial standing. These include impactful performances in major movies such as ‘Zero Dark Thirty,’ ‘Selma,’ and ‘The Big Short.’ These roles not only showcased his considerable acting talent but also brought in substantial paychecks that added up over time.
His dedication to his craft, often characterized by a deep method acting approach, has not only garnered him accolades like the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2020 but also ensured a steady stream of high-profile projects. The confluence of his success in ‘Succession’ and his established career in film has solidified Jeremy Strong’s place as a respected and financially successful actor, proving that the ‘paychecks. They add up,’ as the context aptly puts it.
4. **Matthew Macfadyen (Tom Wambsgans)**Matthew Macfadyen, who brilliantly embodies the perpetually scheming yet often-beleaguered Tom Wambsgans, Shiv Roy’s husband, has likewise reaped significant financial rewards from his role in ‘Succession.’ For season 3, Macfadyen’s per-episode salary mirrored that of many of his co-stars, falling between $300,000 and $350,000. This places his seasonal earnings for ‘Succession’ at approximately $2.7 million to $3 million, a substantial increase from the reported $100,000 per episode he was making earlier in the show’s run.
His talent and compelling portrayal of Tom earned him a nomination for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 2020, further cementing his status as a critical component of the show’s success. This recognition, combined with the series’ exploding popularity, undoubtedly played a role in his successful salary renegotiation, highlighting the tangible benefits of critical acclaim in the entertainment industry.
According to various sources, Matthew Macfadyen’s net worth is estimated at $5 million. While he has a respected career stretching back years, including a memorable performance in ‘Pride and Prejudice’ (where he should “be making millions in residuals for his angsty hand-acting alone”), it appears that the bulk of his recent financial growth is directly attributable to his involvement with ‘Succession.’ This suggests that while previous roles were foundational, his time with the Roys has been the most financially transformative period of his career.
The character of Tom Wambsgans, with his complicated loyalty and ambition, has become a fan favorite, providing some of the show’s darkest humor and most poignant moments. Macfadyen’s ability to navigate Tom’s intricate emotional landscape has captivated audiences and critics alike. His journey from earning a solid $100,000 per episode to commanding up to $350,000 each installment during the show’s third season perfectly illustrates how ‘Succession’ has elevated the careers, and bank accounts, of its talented cast members.
Continuing our exploration into the ‘Succession’ cast’s remarkable wealth, we now turn our attention to the remaining members of the on-screen Roy family and its closest associates. As the show’s popularity soared, so too did the financial fortunes of these talented actors, reflecting the unprecedented success of the HBO hit. Their individual negotiation strategies, much like the Roys themselves, led to significant bumps in their per-episode earnings, creating real-life wealth that, while not matching Waystar RoyCo’s fictional billions, is certainly enough for more than a few ludicrously capacious bags.
5. **Kieran Culkin (Roman Roy)**Kieran Culkin, who embodies the sharp-witted and often vulnerable Roman Roy, has seen his personal earnings significantly climb alongside ‘Succession’s’ critical acclaim. For the show’s highly anticipated third season, Culkin commanded an impressive salary, earning between $300,000 and $350,000 for each episode. This substantial figure translates to a seasonal income for ‘Succession’ of approximately $2.7 million to $3 million, a clear testament to his pivotal role and the show’s soaring popularity.
This recent financial triumph marks a considerable leap from his earlier paydays on the series. For ‘Succession’ seasons 1 and 2, Kieran Culkin reportedly earned $100,000 per episode. With each of those initial seasons consisting of 10 episodes, his total yearly salary would have been around $1 million per season. The immense success of the show, particularly during the pandemic, provided the perfect opportunity for such a lucrative renegotiation, underscoring the power of critical acclaim in the entertainment world.
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Kieran Culkin’s net worth is estimated at a solid $5 million. While he’s been acting since he was a child, with memorable roles in films like “She’s All That,” the bulk of his recent financial growth is undeniably a result of his starring role in ‘Succession.’ This places him in a shared fourth position among the core cast members when ranked by net worth, alongside his on-screen brother-in-law, Matthew Macfadyen.
Culkin’s portrayal of Roman Roy, the youngest and most emotionally complex of the Roy siblings, has been a masterclass in acting, earning him widespread praise. His ability to navigate Roman’s cynical humor, deep-seated insecurities, and surprising moments of vulnerability has captivated audiences, making the character an undeniable fan favorite. This depth and nuanced performance have undoubtedly contributed to his increased value to the series.
Ultimately, ‘Succession’ has been a transformative project for Kieran Culkin, solidifying his status as a leading actor in adult roles and significantly boosting his financial standing. What began as a promising career built on childhood acting, has blossomed into a critically acclaimed and highly lucrative endeavor, proving that consistent talent and the right project can lead to truly unbelievable fortunes in Hollywood.
6. **Sarah Snook (Shiv Roy)**Sarah Snook, who delivers a compelling and formidable performance as Siobhan “Shiv” Roy, has also seen her star power and financial worth ascend dramatically thanks to ‘Succession.’ For the show’s third season, Snook, like many of her main cast counterparts, secured a significant pay raise, earning between $300,000 and $350,000 for each episode. With nine episodes in Season 3, her total salary for that season hovered roughly between $2.7 million and $3 million.
Celebrity Net Worth estimates Sarah Snook’s net worth at a respectable $4 million. While she has been actively working in the entertainment industry for a considerable period, ‘Succession’ stands out as her “first major major role.” This distinction helps explain why her net worth, though substantial, is noted as “slightly lower than her on-screen sibs” who had more extensive high-profile careers prior to joining the Roy family saga.
Snook’s exceptional talent in portraying the ambitious and often conflicted Shiv Roy has not gone unnoticed by critics. Her performance earned her a prestigious nomination for the 2020 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. This critical acclaim undoubtedly reinforced her negotiating power during the crucial salary discussions ahead of the third season, reflecting her indispensable contribution to the show’s success.
The character of Shiv Roy, with her sharp intellect, shifting allegiances, and complex personal relationships, is a cornerstone of the ‘Succession’ narrative. Snook’s ability to embody Shiv’s strength, vulnerability, and internal turmoil has resonated deeply with viewers, making her one of the most intriguing figures on television. Her nuanced performance has elevated the character beyond mere caricature.
For Sarah Snook, ‘Succession’ has not just been a career highlight; it’s been a definitive turning point, transforming her from a respected actress into an internationally recognized star. The series has provided a platform for her talent to shine on a global stage, ensuring not only critical recognition but also a burgeoning financial legacy that continues to grow with each successful season.
7. **Nicholas Braun (Cousin Greg)**Nicholas Braun, beloved by fans for his portrayal of the awkward yet increasingly cunning Gregory Hirsch, affectionately known as “Cousin Greg,” has also ridden the wave of ‘Succession’s’ success to considerable financial gain. For the third season of the HBO drama, Braun’s per-episode salary mirrored that of many of his co-stars, ranging from $300,000 to $350,000. This translated into a robust seasonal income of approximately $2.7 million to $3 million.
This impressive figure represents a significant increase from his earnings in the show’s initial seasons. For both ‘Succession’ season 1 and season 2, Nicholas Braun reportedly earned $100,000 per episode. Given that these early seasons each comprised 10 episodes, his total yearly salary would have been around $1 million per season. His successful salary bump for Season 3, following his 2020 Emmy nomination, underscores the tangible impact of critical recognition and the show’s skyrocketing popularity.
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Nicholas Braun’s net worth currently stands at $4 million. For Braun, who had appeared in roles like “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” ‘Succession’ is characterized as his “first major role with major face recognition.” As such, the context notes that “the bulk of his assets are Succession-related,” placing him in a shared fifth position in the net worth rankings among the core cast, alongside Sarah Snook.
Braun’s portrayal of Cousin Greg, the towering and often flustered relative, has provided some of the show’s most memorable comedic and dramatic moments. His evolving dynamic as the “primary scene partner” to Matthew Macfadyen’s Tom Wambsgans has been a particular highlight, solidifying his place as a fan favorite. Greg’s journey from an outsider looking in to an increasingly embedded (and compromised) member of the Waystar RoyCo machine is central to the series’ narrative.
The phenomenon of ‘Succession’ has undeniably catapulted Nicholas Braun into a new stratosphere of celebrity and financial stability. His journey from earning a substantial $100,000 per episode to commanding up to $350,000 each installment during the show’s third season perfectly illustrates how a breakout role in a critically acclaimed series can transform an actor’s career and bank account.
As ‘Succession’ continues to captivate audiences with its intricate narratives and stunning performances, the real-life fortunes of its cast members have become almost as compelling as the fictional billions of the Roy family. What began with modest salaries has, through strategic individual negotiations and the undeniable power of a global phenomenon, transformed into staggering per-episode paychecks and multi-million dollar net worths. While these figures may not rival the limitless wealth of their on-screen counterparts, they are undeniably substantial and, most importantly, very real. The collective financial journey of the ‘Succession’ cast stands as a testament to their exceptional talent, the show’s profound impact, and the incredible opportunities that can arise when a series truly captures the zeitgeist. It’s a reminder that in Hollywood, sometimes, everyone gets a piece of the pie – especially when that pie is as deliciously dysfunctional and critically revered as Waystar RoyCo.
