Hollywood is a realm of aspirations and disappointments where celebrities soar to great heights and sometimes stumble into obscurity. Occasionally, the line between success and failure can be determined by a choice, a solitary contract, or even just one paycheck. This was the scenario that unfolded for two globally renowned actors who starred in a film that had an enormous disparity in their earnings. The actors in question are none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger and George Clooney.

The movie was Batman & Robin, the fourth movie in the series that began with Tim Burton’s Batman back in 1989. Released in 1997, it starred George Clooney as the caped crusader and Arnold Schwarzenegger as his frosty adversary, Mr. Freeze. However, even though Clooney played the main role, it was the latter who got a larger share of the cake.

Schwarzenegger received $25 million while George Clooney agreed to $1 million. The reason why Clooney accepted a modest salary was because he wasn’t yet a huge star at that time. Mostly known for his role as Dr. Doug Ross in the TV series ER, he had only made a few movie appearances before. The opportunity to play Batman excited him greatly and he did not want to miss out on it.

In contrast, Schwarzenegger was already a recognized figure with successful movies like Terminator, Predator, and Total Recall under his belt. He also had creative control over his character and even got to choose his own catchphrases. 

Meanwhile, Arnold Schwarzenegger is still working to cement his status as a legendary action star today.

Arnold Schwarzenegger is one of the greatest action-movie icons of all time

Schwarzenegger is a legendary figure in the realm of action films with a remarkable career spanning over four decades. He has portrayed striking action characters ranging from a robotic assassin in The Terminator series to a valiant soldier battling extraterrestrial threats in Predator and even a covert agent striving to find an equilibrium between his personal and professional life in True Lies. Schwarzenegger’s magnetic presence on screen, enviable physique, and unforgettable catchphrases have firmly established him as an iconic figure both within households and in popular culture.

Additionally, the star has made his action return to the screens with Netflix’s FUBAR. The 76-year-old will also star in upcoming movies like Breakout and Kung Fury 2. Although the star has gone on to achieve great fame for himself, he still stays humble. With a keen focus on improving the lives of others, the ex-governor of California now spends time on changing people for the good.

What do you think of the massive pay gap between Schwarzenegger and Clooney? Let us know in the comments below.