If you are a fan of the hit Netflix series Orange is the New Black, it is natural to assume that the cast members are making a fortune from the show. It has seven seasons, heaps of awards, and high regard from critics. But one of the actresses just spilled the beans on TikTok about how little Netflix paid her as a royalty check. Her video has since gone viral and caused quite a stir among fans and fellow actors for the disappointing update.

Notably, her performance received great reviews, and she was part of the ensemble cast that won a Screen Actors Guild Award in 2017. Yet she received this disappointing sum as her royalty check.

TikTok video reveals Orange Is the New Black actresses’ paltry paycheck

The actress we’re talking about here is Kimiko Glenn, known for her role as Brook Soso, an activist and inmate at Litchfield Penitentiary. Glenn appeared on the show for four seasons. However, despite her contribution, Glenn recently revealed that she received a mere $27.30 as a royalty check from Netflix. In a video she shared, she humorously exclaimed that she was “about to be so rich” before showing the check on camera. The total amount on the check left her in disbelief, prompting her to exclaim, “What?!” She even hilariously captioned the video with “I’m rich!”

This TikTok video of Glen went viral, garnering over 3 million views and thousands of comments. Fans pointed out the irony of Glenn receiving such a check while Netflix reportedly spends billions on new content.

Glenn isn’t the only celeb from Orange Is the New Black who has expressed frustration regarding the pay they receive from Netflix. Taylor Schilling, who portrayed the character Piper Chapman recently shared a video on Instagram. In it, she mentioned knowing people who have a million followers on social media and are part of billion-dollar franchises and yet “don’t know how to make rent.”

Other members of the show cast have also spoken out about how their pay is undervalued for their contributions at Netflix. Beth Dover, who played Linda Ferguson, revealed that she had to personally cover expenses for her supporting role in Seasons 3 and 4. Netflix is battling a horror story now as more such revelations and claims are coming to the fore.

And these revelations could not have come at a much worse time for both Netflix and Hollywood.

SAG-AFTRA strike brings Netflix and Hollywood to the ground

Among the many studios affected by the strike is Netflix, which heavily relies on streaming content and original productions. The strike has resulted in halts and delays for shows and movies, including popular titles like Stranger Things, Cobra Kai, Emily in Paris, and That 90s Show. Some actors from Netflix shows have also spoken out about their dissatisfaction with wages and unfair treatment. Kimiko Glenn is a recent one among many others. People have also raised concerns about how to distribute the raised funds fairly among performers and creators.

The ongoing strike by SAG-AFTRA in Hollywood has caused a disruption in the film and television industry. This strike, which commenced on July 14 2023 coincides with the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike that began in May. Actors and writers are voicing their concerns. Demanding improved pay and working conditions from studios, particularly concerning streaming services and artificial intelligence integration. This has delayed several huge projects already or put them on the verge of delay.

What do you think of Kimiko Glenn’s revelation in the context of SAG-AFTRA? Is it time for Hollywood to reform? Let us know in the comments below.