Game of Thrones Rich List: The Wealthiest Actors in Westeros, Ranked

The actors from ‘Game of Thrones’ have continued to find success long after the show ended. Many turned their roles into ongoing opportunities – like movie franchises, business deals, and consistent work – that continue to generate income. This list highlights the highest-earning actors from the series, factoring in their main roles, salaries from ongoing projects, work as producers, endorsement deals, and other dependable sources of income.

Each profile details the sources of the celebrity’s income in a straightforward way. We show how starring in a hit show like ‘Game of Thrones’ often combines with successful movies, high-quality TV series, and endorsements to create long-term wealth. The profiles also highlight other income streams – like directing, voice work, personal appearances, and property investments – that contribute to their overall fortune, even if they aren’t as visible.

20. Rory McCann

Rory McCann became well-known for his role as Sandor Clegane in ‘Game of Thrones,’ and he earned significant income per episode in the show’s later seasons. This role increased his visibility, leading to consistent work in movies and TV, as well as income from appearances at fan conventions.

Beyond his main role, he earns income through voiceovers, commercials, and projects in Europe, bridging the gaps between bigger opportunities. He strategically chooses his work and benefits from ongoing payments for past projects, which helps ensure a consistent income.

19. Maisie Williams

Maisie Williams started as a young actress on ‘Game of Thrones’ and has since become a producer and businesswoman. She earned a significant salary during the later seasons of the show and continues to receive income from its ongoing popularity and international broadcasts.

She expanded her work into television series, independent movies, and collaborations with brands in the tech and fashion industries. She also invested in new creative businesses and took on production roles, building financial security beyond just her acting career.

18. Iain Glen

Iain Glen is well known for his role as Ser Jorah Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’, but he’s also had a successful and lengthy career in theater and film. He earns money through leading roles on television, work on international films, and narrating audiobooks, where his experienced voice is highly valued.

He consistently finds work in British TV shows and high-quality limited series. Supplementing this income, he also performs in touring theater productions and at festivals, allowing him to stay busy with little gap between acting jobs.

17. Aidan Gillen

Aidan Gillen’s performance as Littlefinger led to consistent work in successful TV shows and better contracts. He had already built a solid reputation with roles in series like ‘The Wire’ and ‘Peaky Blinders’, which helped him negotiate those later opportunities.

He works in a variety of film and television projects, from mainstream TV to independent and Irish films, and he’s skilled at getting good deals. He also earns a steady income through film festivals, short-run TV series, and voice acting for animated shows and video games.

16. Gwendoline Christie

Gwendoline Christie successfully used her role as Brienne of Tarth to land significant parts in popular fantasy and science fiction projects. This allowed her to negotiate higher salaries on later seasons of ‘Game of Thrones’ and led to leading roles in shows like ‘The Sandman’ and other high-paying television series.

She earns extra income from acting and modeling. She also profits from attending events around the world, working with high-end brands, and selling photos and autographs to enthusiastic fans.

15. Carice van Houten

Carice van Houten was already a successful actress, particularly in European films, before her role as Melisandre brought her significant earnings. She continues to land prominent roles in both Dutch and international productions, ensuring a steady income and ongoing royalties.

She earns additional income from projects like music collaborations, voiceovers, and commercials in Europe. Plus, her films continue to generate revenue because they’re still popular on streaming platforms internationally.

14. Nathalie Emmanuel

Nathalie Emmanuel became known for playing Missandei on ‘Game of Thrones’ and also joined the cast of the ‘Fast & Furious’ movies. Working on big studio films means substantial upfront payments, and actors can earn even more through bonuses based on how well the film performs.

In addition to acting, she hosts popular streaming thrillers and romantic dramas that offer good pay. She supplements her income with fitness and beauty sponsorships, and by hosting events internationally, creating a diverse range of revenue streams.

13. Charles Dance

Charles Dance convincingly portrayed the authoritative Tywin Lannister, which led to a consistent string of high-profile acting jobs. He also benefits from ongoing income from his extensive film and television work that continues to be shown on television and streaming services.

He consistently earns income through voiceover work, audiobooks, and performing on stage. He also continues to land well-paying supporting roles in popular franchises and period pieces, where his experience is highly valued.

12. Richard Madden

Richard Madden successfully transitioned from his role as Robb Stark to a leading actor. The popularity of ‘Bodyguard’ led to opportunities in major films like ‘Eternals’ and lucrative fashion deals.

He consistently earns a lot of money from a variety of sources, including streaming shows, action movies, and sponsorships around the world. He also makes significant income from appearances at international events and press tours.

11. Sophie Turner

By the end of ‘Game of Thrones’, Sophie Turner was earning a very high salary. She’s continued to work on successful films and streaming shows, maintaining her status as a highly paid actress.

Collaborations with brands provide a steady income stream in the fashion and beauty industries. Additionally, she works as a producer on projects, earning both initial payments and a share of the profits later on.

10. Sean Bean

Sean Bean had a long and successful career in film and television before joining ‘Game of Thrones’. Because of this, he continues to earn money from past projects that are still being shown on TV and streaming services.

He continues to work steadily on British television shows and international movies, choosing roles that offer good compensation for experienced actors. He also earns additional income through voiceover work and performances in video games, which helps build his long-term financial stability.

9. Jonathan Pryce

Jonathan Pryce is a highly respected actor, known for his memorable performance as the High Sparrow, and continues to land impressive roles. His long and successful career in theater, film, and television provides him with a consistent income from repeat broadcasts and performances around the globe.

His recent success in streaming shows keeps demand – and his asking price – high for both short-run TV series and projects likely to earn awards. He also earns income from stage performances in London and New York, along with voiceover work for commercials and narration.

8. Lena Headey

Lena Headey made a substantial income per episode on ‘Game of Thrones’ as the show concluded. She supplemented this with voice work in animation and roles in action movies, providing consistent earnings between major projects.

She directs and produces independent films and series, earning both upfront payments and potential profit sharing. She also supplements her income with work on conventions, commercials, and audiobooks.

7. Nikolaj Coster-Waldau

Nikolaj Coster-Waldau’s role as Jaime Lannister helped him secure leading roles in films and television shows throughout Europe and North America. He consistently stars in popular thrillers and dramas, commanding high salaries due to his established reputation.

He supplements his income with sponsorships and by narrating documentaries. He also earns money from speaking engagements and film festival appearances, which help maintain his visibility in important industries.

6. Emilia Clarke

By the final season of ‘Game of Thrones’, Emilia Clarke was among the highest-paid actors on television. She’s continued that success with prominent roles in both big-budget films and popular streaming movies, allowing her to command substantial salaries for leading parts.

She earns money in several ways beyond her main work, including publishing books and collaborating with charities. She also receives ongoing income from attending conventions and allowing her image to be used on merchandise.

5. Kit Harington

Kit Harington earned a top salary for his role as Jon Snow on television. He’s now consistently finding work in movies and limited series, which allows him to maintain a high income and a busy schedule.

Performing on stage in London provides good weekly income and valuable exposure. Additionally, sponsorships and voiceover work for travel and luxury companies significantly boost yearly earnings.

4. Peter Dinklage

Peter Dinklage successfully negotiated higher pay per episode for his role as Tyrion Lannister, and has been consistently busy ever since. He now stars in a variety of films, from dramas to comedies, and frequently provides voice work for popular animated movies.

He carefully chooses projects that generate both upfront fees and possible ongoing profits. He also earns steady passive income through commercial voiceover work, narrating audiobooks, and licensing his previous projects worldwide.

3. Pedro Pascal

Pedro Pascal’s role as Oberyn Martell helped him land starring roles in hugely popular shows like ‘The Mandalorian’ and ‘The Last of Us’. These shows are among the highest-paying in television, offering substantial income from both salaries and ongoing royalties.

He stars in major movies and partners with popular brands in fashion and technology. He also earns consistent income from appearances at fan events worldwide and from sales of exclusive merchandise.

2. Jason Momoa

Jason Momoa’s role as Khal Drogo helped launch his film career, culminating in his starring role as Aquaman. Leading roles in superhero films come with significant initial salaries, and actors can earn even more based on how well the movie performs in theaters and on streaming platforms.

In addition to his main work, he earns income through action shows, hosting documentaries, and partnerships with brands focused on drinks and the outdoors. He also works with production companies and on brand deals, which helps him have a variety of income sources.

1. Ian McShane

Despite his short appearance on ‘Game of Thrones’, Ian McShane has amassed a significant fortune over his long career. He earns substantial income from roles in shows like ‘Deadwood’ and films like ‘John Wick’, and continues to work steadily in both television and film.

He’s built a strong financial foundation through successful voice acting, global advertising campaigns, and ongoing payments from a large collection of previously released projects. He continues to secure new, well-paying jobs and still earns income from his popular older work around the world.

Share your own rich list in the comments and tell us who you think belongs on this countdown.

2025-09-22 23:47