According to Variety, actor Margot Robbie earned approximately 50 million dollars—translating to nearly 500 million Norwegian kroner—for her starring role in the 2023 blockbuster film “Barbie,” combining upfront salary and backend box office profit participation. The film grossed over 1.4 billion dollars globally, making it Warner Bros.’ highest-grossing film of all time and establishing director Greta Gerwig as the director of the highest-grossing film ever directed by a woman.
Warner Bros. Contract Negotiations Stall Barbie Sequel Development
Contract negotiations between Warner Bros. and key creative talent have currently stalled the development of a potential “Barbie” sequel, according to Variety. Over the past three years, the studio has presented more than six salary offers to the principal figures involved, but the parties have failed to reach an agreement regarding improved compensation terms.
Cast and Director Salary Demands for a Potential Follow-Up
Both Margot Robbie and co-star Ryan Gosling are seeking better financial terms, particularly concerning backend revenue shares from a subsequent film, as reported by Variety. Furthermore, The New York Times previously reported that Gosling is demanding a salary of nearly 200 million kroner to reprise his role as Ken. Director Greta Gerwig is also requesting a higher upfront fee and a larger percentage of the revenue if she returns for a follow-up project.
Mattel Rights Deadline Approaching for Studio
Time constraints are intensifying the ongoing negotiations between the studio and the filmmakers. According to Variety, Warner Bros. has roughly four months remaining to initiate production on a sequel. If the studio misses this window, the film rights will revert to toy giant Mattel, requiring the company to restart the project from scratch without building directly upon Gerwig’s established cinematic universe.
Did You Know?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Margot Robbie make for the first “Barbie” movie?
According to Variety, Margot Robbie earned around 50 million dollars through a combination of her base salary and a share of the film’s box office earnings.
Why is the “Barbie” sequel currently delayed?
Variety reports that negotiations have stalled because key talent, including Robbie, Gosling, and director Greta Gerwig, are seeking improved financial compensation and higher revenue percentages.
What happens if Warner Bros. does not start a sequel soon?
According to Variety, Warner Bros. has about four months to initiate development on a follow-up, or the film rights will revert back to Mattel.
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