How Patricia Richardson Leveraged $1M Pay Gap with Tim Allen to Wrap Up 'Home Improvement'

Patricia Richardson Used Home Improvement Pay Gap With Co Star Tim Allen to End Series

Patricia Richardson and Tim Allen Getty Images (2)

Patricia Richardson, 73, recently talked about the pay difference between herself and Tim Allen on the show Home Improvement. She mentioned that Allen was offered $2 million per episode for a ninth season, which was double what the studio was offering her. Richardson used this situation to help bring the series to an end.

Richardson and Allen both agreed that Home Improvement was over before the eighth season ended. The departure of longtime directors meant they had to explain their characters to new people, making the situation uncomfortable. Richardson was adamant that she would not do a ninth season, saying that no amount of money could change her mind. Allen initially agreed with her, but his stance shifted when Disney offered to extend the show.

Feeling betrayed, Richardson used Allen's change of heart to her advantage. She requested the same offer from Disney, knowing full well that it would be rejected.

She explained, "I knew that Disney would not offer me a substantial amount. So, my way of declining was a subtle way of saying 'no' and also a bit of a statement to Disney. Despite my long tenure with them, I was only paid a fraction of what my male co-star, Tim, was earning, even though I was putting in a lot of effort. I played a significant role in attracting female viewers to the show."

According to Richardson, there was tension on the set during the final season. Both main actors were upset with each other: Allen was angry at Richardson for refusing to come back, while Richardson was frustrated with Allen for leaving her in a difficult situation.

Patricia Richardson Used Home Improvement Pay Gap With Co Star Tim Allen to End Series

Tim Allen and Patricia Richardson Cover Images

She expressed her frustration with Tim for not standing by her, making her feel like the villain. In return, Tim was upset with her for walking away.

When we contacted Allen's representatives for a statement, they chose not to comment.

Richardson addressed rumors of a Home Improvement reunion in March, clarifying that there are no plans for it. Allen had mentioned that he and co-star Richard Karn were willing to reprise their roles as hosts of Tool Time.

On an episode of the “Back to the Best” podcast, Richardson revealed that she had never been approached about a reunion. She also mentioned that Jonathan Taylor Thomas, who played her onscreen son, had not been contacted either. Richardson expressed surprise at Allen's claims of the entire cast being on board without consulting her or Thomas.

Editor's P/S:

Patricia Richardson's experience on Home Improvement highlights the persistent pay inequality faced by women in the entertainment industry. Despite her significant contributions to the show's success, she was offered far less than her male co-star, Tim Allen. Richardson's refusal to accept this disparity and her subsequent negotiation tactics demonstrate her strength and determination. It is disappointing that despite her efforts, the pay gap persists in Hollywood, indicating that there is still much work to be done to achieve gender equity.

Richardson's account also sheds light on the complex dynamics that can arise when co-stars experience unequal treatment. Allen's initial agreement to end the show, followed by his change of heart, left Richardson feeling betrayed. The tension between them during the final season further illustrates the challenges that can occur when actors are treated differently. Her refusal to participate in a reunion without addressing the pay disparity is a powerful statement that emphasizes the importance of valuing all cast members equally.