29th May 2023, Mumbai: When it comes to Bollywood, the first thing that captures our attention is the earnings of its actors. The film industry in India not only provides immense entertainment to viewers but also generates massive amounts of money, making it a highly lucrative business. Film production costs are astronomical, and actors command exorbitant paychecks. While popular names like Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, and other Bollywood stalwarts often demand prices that surpass the entire budget of a movie, there is someone who outshines them all.
Within the range of actors whose films have budgets ranging from 100 to 150 crores, we find Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, and Akshay Kumar. However, the highest-paid actor in India is not among the famed Bollywood Khans or even the biggest stars from the South like Prabhas or Allu Arjun. Surprisingly, it is a Tamil superstar who reigns supreme. None other than Thalapathy Vijay, also known as Vijay Joseph, claims this prestigious title, commanding a staggering fee of Rs 200 crores for his upcoming film.
Vijay has been an integral part of the film industry for 27 years, primarily working in Tamil-language films in Kollywood. The 48-year-old actor has portrayed the lead role in nearly 66 films thus far. From starting his career with a meager payment of 500 rupees, he has risen to become the highest-paid actor, earning a whopping 200 crore rupees for each film. For his 68th venture, Vijay has joined forces with filmmaker Venkat Prabhu. Tentatively titled “Thalapathy 68,” the movie was officially announced on May 21st, 2023, with AGS Entertainment handling its production. Rumor has it that Vijay will demand a staggering 200 crore rupees for this project, solidifying his position as India’s highest-paid actor.
Vijay’s upcoming film, “Leo,” directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, will feature the actor alongside Trisha Krishnan as the female lead. The antagonist’s role is said to be portrayed by none other than Sanjay Dutt. After completing “Leo,” Vijay will embark on his 68th film with Venkat Prabhu at the helm.