Paramount+’s hit drama Landman has initiated early contract renegotiations for its original cast, securing significant salary increases for most series regulars. According to Deadline, the move reflects the show’s status as a major ratings driver, with actors securing raises despite the industry’s current trend of delaying such negotiations until later seasons.
Why is the Landman cast renegotiating now?
Contract renegotiations after only two seasons are increasingly rare in the current television landscape, where studios are tightening budgets across the board. Typically, cast members wait until after a third or fourth season to approach studios for salary adjustments. However, Landman’s performance as a flagship series for Paramount+ has fast-tracked this process. The Season 2 finale reached 14.8 million views within two days, securing its status as the most-watched original series finale in the platform’s history, according to Deadline.
The Landman Season 2 premiere drew millions of streaming views within its first 48 hours, setting a record for Paramount+ original series debuts.
How have the salary structures changed?
The renegotiations resulted in tiered pay increases across the ensemble. Demi Moore, whose initial contract was shorter than the industry standard, secured a new deal that brings her to pay parity with lead Billy Bob Thornton. According to Deadline, both Moore and Thornton are expected to earn between $740K and $770K per episode next season. Billy Bob Thornton remains on a separate three-year contract cycle with standard annual increases, meaning he is not currently renegotiating but would be eligible for a new deal should the show be renewed for a fourth season.
Other cast members also saw substantial gains:
- Ali Larter: Following a lengthy negotiation, Larter more than doubled her previous paycheck, reportedly moving to over $350K per episode.
- Breakout Stars: Jacob Lofland and Michelle Randolph are set to earn between $130K – $180K per episode.
- Supporting Cast: Paulina Chavez, Kayla Wallace, Mark Collie, and James Jordan have also secured significant percentage raises based on their existing contracts.
What is the impact of new cast additions?
The series continues to expand its talent pool, adding high-profile names like Sam Elliott and Andy Garcia to the main cast in the most recent season. While these additions bolster the show’s profile, their contracts may establish new benchmarks for future salary discussions. Reps for 101 Studios and Paramount TV Studios declined to comment on the specific financial agreements, as did representatives for the actors involved.