Forbes recently unveiled its annual list of the world’s highest-paid actors, and one surprising observation stood out—this year’s ranking was heavily dominated by men.
Out of the top 20 earners, only three were women, and none were in their younger years. Defying age stereotypes in Hollywood, 57-year-old Nicole Kidman emerged as the highest-paid actress of 2024, proving that talent and experience still reign supreme in the entertainment industry. According to Forbes, Kidman amassed a total of $41 million this year, with a net profit of $31 million.
Not only did she outshine all other actresses globally, but she also secured the eighth spot in the overall list, surpassing renowned male actors like Will Smith and Adam Sandler, while trailing just one rank behind Hollywood legends George Clooney and Brad Pitt.
Forbes referred to Kidman as the “Queen of AMC Theatres” and highlighted her dominance in the world of TV mini-series. The Australian superstar’s success in 2024 stemmed from a series of high-profile projects, each centred around her star power.
Kidman led three major television productions—The Perfect Couple, Lions, and Expats—reportedly earning $1 million per episode. She also starred in two romantic films, Baby Girl and A Family Affair, both of which were box-office hits. Her on-screen pairings with younger co-stars further emphasized her versatility and continued relevance in the industry.
At an age when leading roles for women in Hollywood become scarce, Nicole Kidman’s achievements serve as a testament to her enduring legacy and ability to set her terms in the film industry.
