Animals Who Earned More Than Their Human Co-Stars

Some animals in movies and TV shows have stolen the spotlight. They’ve also earned bigger paychecks than their human co-stars. These furry or feathered stars prove that talent comes in all shapes and sizes.

From dogs to monkeys, these animals worked hard and made bank. Their trainers and owners cashed in, while the animals charmed audiences. Here’s a look at some animals who out-earned the humans they shared the screen with.

Crystal the Monkey

Crystal the Monkey is a Hollywood favorite. She’s a capuchin who starred in films like The Hangover Part II (2011) and Night at the Museum (2006). Her pay was huge, sometimes hitting $12,000 per day. Many human actors on set earned less for their roles.

Her calm nature made her a star. She could handle loud sets and bright lights without stress. Crystal’s trainer got her roles in big projects, and her charm kept audiences hooked. She even outshone some A-list stars.

Keiko the Orca

Keiko played Willy in Free Willy (1993). This orca was a global sensation. His work in the film earned him $36 million, more than any human in the cast. The movie’s success led to a movement to free him from captivity.

Keiko’s story wasn’t just about money. His role raised awareness about orcas in captivity. While his human co-stars made less, Keiko’s impact went beyond the screen. He became a symbol of animal freedom.

Moose the Dog

Moose played Eddie in Frasier (1993–2004). This Jack Russell Terrier earned $10,000 per episode. Many human actors on the show made less per episode. Moose’s charm made him a fan favorite.

His trainer worked hard to keep him focused. Moose handled long shoots and tricky scenes with ease. His role in Frasier made him rich and famous. He even starred in commercials and the movie My Dog Skip (2000).

Bart the Bear

Bart the Bear was a Kodiak bear who starred in The Bear (1988). He earned up to $6 million in his career. His human co-stars, even big names like Anthony Hopkins, often made less on those projects. Bart’s size and training made him a unique star.

He worked in films like Legends of the Fall (1994) and The Edge (1997). His trainer, Doug Seus, taught him to act safely on set. Bart’s presence was so strong that he even presented at the Oscars in 1998.

Rin Tin Tin

Rin Tin Tin was a German Shepherd who starred in silent films in the 1920s. He earned $2,000 per week, which is about $26,000 today. Many human actors in his films made far less. His movies saved Warner Bros. from bankruptcy.

Rescued from a World War I battlefield, Rin Tin Tin became a legend. His trainer, Lee Duncan, helped him shine in films like The Man from Hell’s River (1922). Rin Tin Tin’s fame made him one of the first animal superstars.

Pal the Dog

Pal was a Rough Collie who played Lassie in Lassie Come Home (1943). He earned $250 per week, double what young Elizabeth Taylor made. His role kicked off the Lassie franchise, which included films and a TV show.

Pal’s trainer worked hard to make him a star. He replaced another dog after impressing the director. Pal’s charm and skill made him richer than many of his human co-stars. The Lassie name became a Hollywood icon.

Terry the Dog

Terry, a Cairn Terrier, played Toto in The Wizard of Oz (1939). She earned $125 per week, more than most Munchkin actors, who got $50. Her pay was big for a dog in the 1930s. She worked alongside Judy Garland, who earned $500 weekly.

Terry’s trainer, Carl Spitz, prepared her for the role. She handled tough scenes, even after an injury on set. Terry’s performance made Toto unforgettable. Her paycheck proved she was a true star.