Do Star Trek Actors Get Residuals? Here’s The Truth
Star Trek has been a beloved franchise for decades, with a loyal fan base that continues to grow with each new generation. The franchise has spawned numerous TV shows and movies, with a talented cast of actors bringing iconic characters to life. But have you ever wondered whether these actors get residuals, or recurring payments, for their work? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Hollywood accounting to get to the bottom of this question.
What are residuals?
In the entertainment industry, residuals are fees paid to actors, writers, and producers for their work on a project, usually in the form of a percentage of the profits. These payments are typically made for future uses or re-runings of the original production, such as syndication, streaming, or DVD sales. Residuals are an essential part of a performer’s contract, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their contribution to a project.
Do Star Trek actors get residuals?
The answer is a resounding "yes" for many Star Trek actors. In the case of the original Star Trek series, which aired from 1966 to 1969, the cast members, including William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, and DeForest Kelley, negotiated residual agreements as part of their contracts. These residuals have continued to flow in over the years, generating significant income for the actors.
However, it’s not a straightforward answer for all Star Trek actors. The spin-off shows, such as The Next Generation (1987-1994), Deep Space Nine (1993-1999), and Voyager (1995-2001), had their own separate contracts and residual agreements. These agreements might not have been as lucrative as those of the original series, but they still provided some financial compensation for the actors’ work.
How do residuals work for Star Trek actors?
For Star Trek actors, residuals usually come from the following sources:
- Syndication: When reruns of Star Trek episodes are sold to TV networks or streaming platforms, the producers and studios receive a percentage of the profits, which is then split among the original cast and crew, including the actors.
- Home video: When fans purchase or rent Star Trek DVDs, Blu-rays, or digital copies, the actors receive a percentage of the revenue generated.
- Merchandising: When Star Trek-themed merchandise, such as action figures, toys, or clothing, is sold, the actors might receive a small percentage of the profits.
Not all Star Trek actors get equal residuals
Unfortunately, not all Star Trek actors benefit equally from residual payments. The original cast of the 1966 series, including Shatner, Nimoy, and Kelley, had more favorable residual agreements than those who came later. As the franchise expanded, subsequent casts received lower residual rates, which can be as low as 2% of the profits.
The impact of residuals on Star Trek actors’ careers
Residuals have played a significant role in the careers of many Star Trek actors. For some, the financial security provided by their residual agreements allowed them to pursue other projects, explore different formats, or even start their own production companies. For others, residual income has been a steady supplement to their salaries, helping them maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, many Star Trek actors do receive residuals for their work on the franchise. While the amounts and terms of these agreements vary, they have provided a financial safety net for many performers, allowing them to build a life-long legacy from their involvement in the iconic franchise. As the franchise continues to evolve, fans can expect to see new Star Trek series and movies emerge, with a new generation of actors earning residual income from the fantasy and adventure of the galaxy. Live long and prosper!
