British Study: Actresses Paid Less Than Actors

It was not exactly a surprise to those working in the British entertainment industry, but now it’s been documented for the first time: Actresses in Britain are paid about half of what their male counterparts earn.

Results of a report commissioned by the actors’ union British Equity on pay levels for actors and actresses in equivalent roles found a huge disparity. The report, researched by Helen Thomas of the University of London, shows that the median pay for men appearing in film, television, radio and commercials was about $27,000, compared to about $15,000 for women. In television, actors are paid just over twice as much as women and nearly three times as much in commercials.

Actress Susannah York, currently starring in the BBC TV series “Trainer,” told reporters at a press conference that she had never thought about the disparity before. But recently she learned that a production, in which she had top billing, was paying her 30% less than that paid to two male actors in the cast--one a co-star, the other in a supporting role.

The Equity report also revealed a significant difference between the ages that men and women work most frequently in Britain. Women receive the most work while they are younger than 30, while the busiest period for men continues into their 40s. Women also play younger parts than their actual age in comparison to men.

“It’s a rough business, but this report shows it is even rougher for women than it is for men,” said Ian McGarry, Equity’s general secretary, in a statement. Equity officials said they have no control over pay scales beyond ensuring actors receive contractual minimums. But the organization will now begin seeking ways to close the gender gap.