Shocking Revelation: Katie Stevens Discloses Shockingly Low Income for 'The Bold Type' Streaming Residuals and Minuscule Earnings for Rentals

Actress Katie Stevens, known for her role as Jane Sloan in The Bold Type, is actively supporting the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike. In a recent interview on the "Hold My Hair?" podcast on Monday, July 31, Stevens clarified the misconception surrounding the salaries of television actors. She emphasized that the traditional method of receiving residuals from TV show airings and reruns has significantly changed, debunking the assumption of extravagant earnings in the industry.

Stevens, who portrayed journalist Jane on Freeform's The Bold Type from 2017 to 2022, highlighted that the show is currently available on numerous domestic and international streaming platforms. "I receive no compensation from it," she stated, adhering to the SAG strike regulations by not explicitly mentioning the show's name. "None!"

Having previously played a leading role on MTV's Faking It for three seasons prior to her five-year tenure on The Bold Type, Stevens clarified that she only receives payment if a viewer decides to rent or buy an episode of the show.

“It’s still such a small amount! There’s this bar in L.A. called ‘Residuals,’ where if you bring in a check that’s less than $1, they give you a free shot. I would practically live there because I receive so many checks for ridiculously low amounts, like 21 cents or 18 cents,” she revealed to host Courtney Michelle Dlugos. She mentioned that she could enjoy numerous complimentary beverages at that place. “It’s really unjust that these companies are making billions of dollars and prioritizing their investors, while neglecting to adequately compensate the individuals who are the true artists, creating powerful stories.”

Last month, unionized SAG-AFTRA performers joined forces to fight for equal pay in contract negotiations, as they faced challenges from streaming platforms and outdated residual guidelines. When the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) declined to reach a compromise on new financial terms, the actors resorted to a strike.

On Monday, she addressed another misconception about being an actor, emphasizing that it's not always a continuous journey as a series regular. After completing a show in 2021, she faced challenges during the pandemic, with fewer audition opportunities. In 2022, she took on a few jobs for financial reasons, but then became pregnant. Due to her pregnancy and physical changes, she didn't go on many auditions. Ultimately, she expressed the difficulty of sustaining a career without proper compensation for the work done.