Hollywood has long been an industry where age, gender, and bargaining power heavily influenced earnings. For decades, major paydays were reserved for older, male led box office names, while young actresses were often underpaid relative to their cultural impact. That narrative is now changing.

A new generation of actresses under 30 are not only leading blockbuster films and streaming hits, but are also commanding multi-million-dollar paychecks, producer credits, and lucrative brand partnerships. While exact figures are rarely disclosed publicly, industry reports, studio leaks, and trade publications provide a clearer picture of who currently sits at the top of Hollywood’s young earners list.

Below is a breakdown of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood under 30, based on reported film salaries from recent projects (2024–2025). Where figures are not officially confirmed, they are clearly treated as industry estimates, not absolute facts.

Zendaya (Age 28)

Zendaya currently stands as one of the most powerful young actresses in Hollywood, both commercially and culturally.

She reportedly earned around $10 million for her role in Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers, marking a major leap from her early Disney Channel beginnings. Beyond acting, Zendaya has steadily positioned herself as a brand in her own right, serving as a producer, fashion icon, and global ambassador for luxury houses.

Her Emmy-winning performance in Euphoria strengthened her negotiating power, proving that prestige television can be just as financially rewarding as theatrical releases. Studios now see Zendaya not just as talent, but as a guaranteed audience draw.

Zendaya’s pay reflects a shift toward rewarding cultural relevance, not just box office history.

Millie Bobby Brown (Age 21)

Millie Bobby Brown became a household name before she turned 15, and she has successfully turned early fame into long-term leverage.

She reportedly earned about $10 million for Enola Holmes 2, a figure that placed her among the highest-paid young actresses globally at the time. Crucially, Brown is not just the star of the franchise; she also serves as a producer, which significantly boosts her earnings beyond upfront salary.

Her ongoing relationship with Netflix has been central to her rise, highlighting how streaming platforms are reshaping Hollywood pay structures for young stars.

Sydney Sweeney (Age 27)

Following standout performances in Euphoria and The White Lotus, Sweeney reportedly earned approximately $7–7.5 million for upcoming film projects, including high-profile studio releases. In addition to acting, she has leveraged her popularity into multiple endorsement deals, further increasing her total earnings.

Sweeney has also been vocal about Hollywood’s financial realities, previously stating that acting alone is often not enough to sustain a career, a comment that sparked wider industry conversations.

Her earnings highlight the growing importance of brand partnerships alongside acting salaries.

Florence Pugh (Age 29)

Florence Pugh has built a reputation as one of her generation’s most respected dramatic actresses, balancing indie credibility with blockbuster appeal.

She reportedly earned around $7 million for recent major studio roles, including Marvel projects. Pugh’s ability to move seamlessly between prestige films and franchise entries has made her highly valuable to studios seeking both critical acclaim and commercial success.

Unlike some of her peers, Pugh’s rise has been driven more by performance reputation than social media visibility. 

Jenna Ortega (Age 22)

Jenna Ortega’s career experienced a dramatic acceleration following the global success of Netflix’s Wednesday.

Since then, she has reportedly earned around $6 million for recent film roles, with her profile continuing to rise. Ortega has also taken on producer responsibilities, signaling a long-term strategy focused on creative control as much as earnings.

Her appeal to younger audiences has made her especially valuable in an era where studios are aggressively targeting Gen Z viewers.

Anya Taylor-Joy (Age 28)

Anya Taylor-Joy occupies a slightly different space on this list.

While her reported salary for Furiosa is estimated at around $1.5–2 million, her overall career value extends beyond single-project paydays. Taylor-Joy’s strength lies in her versatility; leading both arthouse films and major franchises and her long-term earning potential remains strong.

It is also worth noting that salary structures vary significantly by role type, franchise stage, and backend deals, which are rarely public.

Hollywood actor and filmmaker Kevin Costner has been hit with a lawsuit over alleged unpaid costume rental fees connected to his upcoming Western film, Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2.

According to court filings, a long established costume supplier has accused Costner and the production companies behind the film of failing to settle outstanding payments for costumes used during filming.

The lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court by Western Costume Leasing Company, a well known Hollywood costume house. The company claims it supplied costumes for Horizon: Chapter 2 under a rental agreement but was never fully paid.

Court documents state that the production allegedly owes over $134,000 in unpaid costume rental fees. However, the total amount being sought in the lawsuit exceeds $400,000, factoring in damages, legal fees, interest, and other related costs via People

The costume company reportedly maintains that the costumes were delivered, used on set, and accepted without dispute.

Another Setback for the Horizon Franchise

The legal action adds to the growing challenges surrounding Costner’s ambitious Horizon film series. The project, planned as a multi-part Western saga, has faced financial pressure and scheduling delays, especially after Chapter 1 struggled at the box office.

As a result, the theatrical release of Horizon: Chapter 2 was postponed, raising concerns about the future rollout of the remaining installments.

Costner has previously revealed that he invested millions of dollars of his own money into the project, making the film deeply personal as well as financially risky.

As of the time of this report, Kevin Costner and his representatives have not issued an official statement regarding the lawsuit. It is also unclear whether the dispute will be settled out of court or proceed to trial.

Despite the legal setback, Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2 has already been screened at select film festivals and is still expected to reach audiences once distribution plans are finalized. 

In a major development in the case, Nick Reiner, 32, has been arrested and is currently in custody in connection with the deaths of his parents. This is an update from earlier reports of being taken into custody for questioning.

Rob Reiner and Wife Michele Found Dead by Daughter; LAPD Questions Son in Ongoing Investigation

According to jail records and law enforcement reports, Nick was booked on a felony charge and is being held on $4 million bail. 

Law enforcement officials confirmed that the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department took Nick into custody late Sunday night, shortly after the bodies of Rob and Michele were discovered. 

At this time, authorities have not released details about the formal charges against Nick or the specific motive, but reports indicate the arrest is in connection with the double homicide investigation. 

LAPD Leads Homicide Investigation

The LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division is leading the investigation into the deaths of the Reiners. Police have described the situation as an active homicide case and are continuing to process the crime scene, interview witnesses, and build evidence. 

Officials have not publicly disclosed a motive or detailed timeline around what led to the deaths. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine and release the official cause and manner of death after completing autopsies.  

Hollywood icon Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer were found dead by their daughter in their Los Angeles home. LAPD is questioning their son Nick as the homicide investigation unfold.

Rob Reiner and Wife Michele Tragically Found Dead in Brentwood Home

Los Angeles, CA, December 14, 2025. Hollywood legend Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead by their daughter, Romy Reiner, in their Brentwood, Los Angeles home on Sunday afternoon. The discovery triggered an immediate response from local authorities and has since become the focus of a high-profile homicide investigation.

Emergency responders arrived at the Reiner residence around 3:30 p.m. PST after a medical aid call and found both Rob and Michele deceased inside their home. Early reports indicate that both suffered fatal stab wounds, though official confirmation is pending from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.

According to sources, their daughter Romy Reiner discovered the bodies, immediately alerting emergency services. The family has requested privacy as they grieve, describing the loss as “sudden” and “devastating.” The news has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, where Rob Reiner’s career as a director, actor, and activist left a lasting legacy. 

About Rob Reiner and Michele Singer

Rob Reiner, 78, became a household name as Michael “Meathead” Stivic on All in the Family and later directed iconic films including This Is Spinal Tap, The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally…, and A Few Good Men. Beyond film, Reiner was an outspoken activist, supporting numerous social causes throughout his life.

Michele Singer Reiner, 68, was a talented photographer and producer. Together, the couple had three children: Jake, Nick, and Romy. Their family has remained close knit despite the personal tragedies reported in the media.

LAPD Questions Son Nick Reiner in Investigation

Following the discovery, the LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division launched an investigation. Detectives have questioned the couple’s son, Nick Reiner, in connection with the deaths. Sources close to the family suggest Nick may be involved, though police have not officially named him as a suspect. No arrests have been made. Via People

Nick Reiner, a screenwriter and co-writer of the semi-autobiographical film Being Charlie, has publicly discussed his history of addiction and homelessness, experiences investigators are aware of as the case develops.

The LAPD has emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and questioning family members is standard procedure in cases of homicide, especially when close relatives are involved. Detectives are gathering evidence, reviewing records, and conducting interviews to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Authorities urge the public to avoid speculating about suspects or motives, as official information will come directly from the LAPD and court filings once available.

Public Reaction and Legacy

The entertainment world has mourned the sudden loss of Reiner and Singer. Colleagues, fans, and fellow filmmakers have expressed condolences, celebrating Reiner’s remarkable contributions to Hollywood and his advocacy work. The family continues to seek privacy while the investigation unfolds.

May their souls rest in peace.

Movies often reflect the struggles, ambitions, and dreams that define our professional lives. Whether it’s chasing success, surviving tough bosses, or questioning what really matters, films about careers give us more than just stories, they give us lessons.

Here are 10 unforgettable career movies, each one rich with insight and inspiration.

The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Will Smith plays Chris Gardner, a man struggling to survive after losing his home, his savings, and nearly everything else while raising his young son. Homeless but determined, Gardner fights his way into a competitive brokerage internship with the hope of building a better life. It’s a gut-punching reminder of how difficult chasing success can be when life keeps pushing you down. Yet, it’s also one of the most uplifting career films ever made, proving that persistence, even against impossible odds, can turn dreams into reality.
Career Lesson: Your circumstances don’t define you — perseverance does.

The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

Fresh out of college, Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway) lands the “dream job” as assistant to Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), a legendary fashion editor. But she quickly discovers the cost of ambition in a cutthroat industry; long hours, impossible standards, and the erosion of her personal life. The movie brilliantly captures the toxic glamour of high-powered careers, where success often comes at the expense of identity. Streep’s icy performance as Miranda remains one of the most iconic portrayals of power in cinema.
Career Lesson: Define success on your own terms, not by someone else’s impossible expectations.

Moneyball (2011)

Brad Pitt stars as Billy Beane, general manager of the Oakland Athletics, who faces the impossible task of competing against big-budget baseball teams with a fraction of their resources. Instead of following tradition, he teams up with a young statistician (Jonah Hill) and pioneers a new system using data and analytics to recruit undervalued players. Beyond baseball, Moneyball is about disrupting old ways of thinking and having the courage to push innovation in a world that resists change.
Career Lesson: Success isn’t always about resources; sometimes it’s about daring to think differently.

Erin Brockovich (2000)

Based on a true story, Julia Roberts delivers an Oscar-winning performance as Erin Brockovich, a single mother who lands a job as a legal assistant with no law degree or formal training. What she lacks in credentials, she makes up for in passion and persistence, leading her to uncover a massive water contamination scandal caused by a powerful corporation. It’s a story about grit and the ability of ordinary individuals to create extraordinary impact.
Career Lesson: Your passion and drive can open doors that qualifications alone cannot.

The Intern (2015)

Robert De Niro plays Ben Whittaker, a 70-year-old widower who takes an internship at a fast-paced online fashion company. Initially seen as outdated, his wisdom, calm presence, and life experience quickly prove invaluable to the young CEO (Anne Hathaway). This heartwarming film challenges stereotypes about age and career, showing that reinvention and contribution are possible at any stage of life.
Career Lesson: Experience never goes out of style — every generation brings value to the workplace.

Up in the Air (2009)

George Clooney portrays Ryan Bingham, a corporate downsizer whose job is to fire employees across the U.S. Constantly traveling, living out of a suitcase, and proud of his independence, Ryan seems to have it all figured out, until he begins questioning the emptiness of his personal life. The movie is a sobering look at careers that consume identity, leaving little room for human connection.
Career Lesson: A thriving career means little without relationships and purpose to ground it.

Joy (2015)

Jennifer Lawrence brings to life the struggles of Joy Mangano, an inventor who rises from family dysfunction and financial hardship to create a successful business empire. The film highlights the messy reality of entrepreneurship: betrayal, rejection, and failure at every turn. Yet, Joy’s resilience and vision propel her forward. This isn’t a glamorous take on success; it’s a raw portrayal of the sacrifices and grit required to build something lasting.

Career Lesson: Entrepreneurship isn’t just about ideas — it’s about persistence when the world doubts you.

Wall Street (1987)

Oliver Stone’s classic captures the ruthless energy of 1980s finance. Charlie Sheen plays Bud Fox, a young stockbroker lured into the world of corporate greed by Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas), who utters the infamous line, “Greed is good.” The movie seduces with the promise of wealth and power, but ultimately warns about the destructive consequences of unchecked ambition.
Career Lesson: Ambition without integrity is a hollow victory.

Hidden Figures (2016)

Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe shine in this inspiring story of three African-American women mathematicians at NASA during the 1960s. Despite facing racial and gender barriers, their brilliance played a crucial role in America’s space missions. Hidden Figures is both a celebration of talent and a reminder of the systemic obstacles many face in their careers.
Career Lesson: Talent can break barriers, but courage and persistence are just as important.

Jerry Maguire (1996)

Tom Cruise stars as Jerry, a sports agent who, after a crisis of conscience, leaves his high-paying job to start his own agency built on honesty and human connection. With just one loyal client (Cuba Gooding Jr.), he learns that true success comes not from chasing numbers but from building meaningful relationships. The film is both a critique of corporate greed and an ode to integrity in business.
Career Lesson: A fulfilling career is built on values, not just victories.

Why These Films Resonate

Each of these movies highlights a different facet of career life; ambition, sacrifice, ethics, innovation, and resilience. Together, they remind us that careers are not just about titles or paychecks, but about choices, values, and the legacy we leave behind.

Which of these films have you seen or look forward to seeing? Or do you have a favorite career-related movie that inspires you?
Drop your reply in the comment — we’d love to feature your picks in the next edition.

I don’t think you’ve noticed…

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What’s happening in Hollywood?

The industry we all love, the industry which, till this day, colonizes cultures. It’s sad to see what’s happening, and it seems like it is eating itself. What’s happening?

For years, Hollywood has always been about fostering the ideas of creatives, creating movies and products that have helped shape American culture. Star Trek, Star Wars, Rocky, The Exorcist, Rambo, Top Gun, E.T., Coming To America, and so on are part of a long list of movies that have been exported outside of America and now have a history of many, including myself, here in Nigeria. But what could be wrong?

These past years, our screens have been filled with adaptations, sequels, remakes and reboots, while that may be good, the obvious elephant in the room will be the re-messaging. Snow White, Ghostbusters, Lightyear, The Little Mermaid, The Last of US: Part II, Batwoman are a few of many movies and shows where the original audience loved was changed to serve a purpose. Trust me when I say it’s not because of the hate of a particular gender or inclusivity. Into The Spider-verse, Barbie, Captain Marvel, Wonder Woman, Crazy Rich Asians, and Get Out are great examples that, if done right, your movies can do well at the box office.

Hollywood, in its attempt to play all sides or, in most cases, play social justice hero, ends up mocking its audience. Recently, we had the casting of Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, which to this day, is facing backlash.

Before you go on thinking this newsletter issue is about politics, it’s not. This year we had Snow White, Captain America 4, and Thunderbolts from Disney, none became a box office success, and on the other hand, we had Companion, Mickey 17, The Alto Knights and The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie from Warner Bros – all flopped. What some may consider woke movies, Sinners and A Minecraft Movie, and Ne Zha 2, became a success. The original being Sinners.

The truth is that a lot of factors play into a box office success, and it all falls down to the answer to this question: “Will the general audience spend their hard-earned money to see this movie?”

As a creative and an industry executive, it is your duty to ask the tough questions. As much as art should be made without constraint, we should also consider the normies. You don’t want to end up as the villain thinking you were the hero all this time.

So, how does this affect Nollywood?

While we’re yet to spend 70 million dollars making movies, it is important to watch and learn. Hollywood once thought they were untouchable, but as time went on, politics and the economy became a reality for them. In Nigeria, we understand the economy. Even consuming this content is expensive; now imagine producing it.

The quality of the art should always be a priority, and the messaging should always reflect what the majority are thinking. While you may think you know what’s right from wrong, you may be blatantly wrong.

At the end of the day, it is important to point out you DO NOT, for any reason, let people crush you for sharing what you think is right. While it may be labelled “woke” or “fascist,” you have to use your voice to speak, and to be honest, we live in a time where the meaning of those words is lost.

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While you’re here…

Will Smith holds one of Hollywood’s most impressive records, which might remain unbroken for a long time. He is the “only actor in the history of Hollywood to have 8 consecutive films make more than $100 million in the box office,” according to an X account.

Will Smith is undoubtedly one of the finest actors of his generation. The way he embodies his characters has to be studied.

Fans made a list of 17 consecutive films that have grossed over $100 million, but the list excludes The Legend of Bagger Vance, Focus, and Seven Pounds, which grossed $70,000,000.

Here’s the full list and how much they have currently made:

Bad Boys: $141,407,024

Independence Day: $817,400,891

Men In Black: $589,300,000

Enemy Of The State: $250,400,876

Wild Wild West: $222,110,000

Men In Black 2: $440,800,000

Bad Boys 2: $273,300,000

I Robot: $353,100,000

Shark Tale: $374,600,000

Hitch: $371,600,000

The Pursuit of Happiness: $307,000,000

I Am Legend: $585,000,000

Hancock: $620,000,000

Men In Black 3: $654,000,000

Suicide Squad: $749,000,00

Bad Boys For Life: $425,000,000

Aladdin: $1,054,000,000