The TV show “Gilmore Girls” has become a popular sitcom not only on traditional broadcast television but also on streaming platforms, notably with a revival season called “A Year in the Life” on Netflix in 2016. However, despite its digital success, the series’ cast members have not seen significant financial benefits from streaming residuals. Star Lauren Graham revealed on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” that there are no residuals on Netflix, but she feels compensated by the love and support from fans.
Graham shared that the show has reached a wider audience on Netflix than it did during its original run on The WB network, attracting viewers of all ages and demographics. The shift from traditional TV to streaming has raised questions about how actors should be compensated, leading to negotiations between entertainment industry unions and producers. For instance, a recent agreement between SAG-AFTRA, WGA, and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers now includes a 75% residual bonus for actors on highly-watched streaming shows, with an additional 25% allocated to a Success Bonus Distribution Fund to benefit actors on other streaming series.
In 2018, “Gilmore Girls” producer Gavin Polone filed a lawsuit against Warner Bros. for allegedly withholding residuals related to the Netflix revival. This case highlights the ongoing challenges and complexities of adapting compensation models to the changing landscape of television viewership and distribution.
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