The gender pay gap in Hollywood has been a hot topic for years, and it’s not just a relic of the past. Even in blockbuster franchises like Jurassic World, disparities in pay persist. Bryce Dallas Howard, a leading actress in the Jurassic World trilogy, recently revealed that she earned significantly less than her co-star Chris Pratt for Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom. This revelation sheds light on the ongoing issue of unequal pay in the film industry and ignites conversations about fairness and equity.
A Shocking Revelation: Howard’s Pay in Jurassic World
Bryce Dallas Howard and Chris Pratt starred together in all three Jurassic World movies, including the latest installment, Jurassic World: Dominion. Despite their equal billing and shared screen time, Howard disclosed that she was paid “so much less” than Pratt for Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.
In a 2018 report by Variety, it was suggested that Howard earned $8 million, which was already $2 million less than Pratt’s $10 million paycheck for the same film. However, Howard recently revealed in an interview with Insider that her actual pay was even lower than the reported figure.
Negotiating in a Different World
Howard’s lower pay reflects the industry climate when she negotiated her contract back in 2014. “When I started negotiating for Jurassic, it was 2014, and it was a different world. I was at a great disadvantage,” she explained. This was a time before movements like #MeToo and Time’s Up gained momentum, bringing much-needed attention to issues of gender inequality in Hollywood.
The Three-Movie Deal Trap
One challenge Howard faced was the nature of her contract, which locked her into a three-movie deal. “Unfortunately, you have to sign up for three movies, and so your deals are set,” she noted. This predetermined pay left little room for renegotiation, even after the blockbuster success of the first Jurassic World film.
Chris Pratt’s Role in Fighting for Equal Pay
While the pay disparity between Howard and Pratt is stark, it also highlights the importance of allyship in the fight for equal pay. According to Howard, when she raised the issue of unequal pay with Pratt, he took it upon himself to ensure she was compensated fairly in other franchise-related opportunities.
Leveling the Playing Field in Spin-Offs
Pratt’s support extended beyond the main films to other franchise opportunities, such as spin-off video games and amusement park rides. These opportunities were not originally included in their contracts, but Pratt advocated for equal pay on these projects. “Whenever there was an opportunity to move the needle on stuff that hadn’t been already negotiated, he literally told me: ‘You don’t even have to do anything. I’m gonna do all the negotiating. We’re gonna be paid the same,’” Howard recalled.
The Impact of Pratt’s Advocacy
Thanks to Pratt’s efforts, Howard earned more from these additional opportunities than she did from the films themselves. “I love him so much for doing that. I really do, because I’ve been paid more for those kinds of things than I ever was for the movie,” she said. This illustrates how critical it is for those in positions of power to advocate for fairness and equality.
The Ongoing Fight for Equal Pay in Hollywood
Bryce Dallas Howard’s story is just one example of the ongoing struggle for equal pay in Hollywood. Over the years, several high-profile actresses, including Michelle Williams, Patricia Arquette, and Jennifer Lawrence, have spoken out against the gender pay gap. These women have been vocal in advocating for equity, shining a light on the systemic issues that have long plagued the industry.
The Role of Public Awareness and Movements
Increased awareness of pay discrepancies, fueled by movements like #MeToo and Time’s Up, has led to some progress in addressing these inequalities. However, there is still a long way to go. Hollywood, like many other industries, must continue to push for transparency and fairness in talent compensation.
Why Equal Pay Matters
The fight for equal pay transcends monetary value; it’s about respect, recognition, and acknowledging the talent of all individuals, regardless of gender. When actors like Bryce Dallas Howard are paid less than their male counterparts for doing the same work, it sends a damaging message about the worth of their contributions. This not only affects individuals but perpetuates a culture of inequality in the industry.
The Future of Equal Pay in Hollywood
As more actors and advocates bring attention to the gender pay gap, there is hope that the industry will continue to evolve. Achieving equal pay isn’t just about fairness; it’s a fundamental issue of justice. By addressing these disparities, Hollywood can set a precedent for other industries and contribute to a more equitable world.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The gender pay gap in Hollywood remains a pressing issue, exemplified by Bryce Dallas Howard’s experience. Her story highlights not only the disparities that persist but also the importance of allyship in advocating for change. As the industry moves forward, the fight for equal pay will remain crucial to ensuring that all talent is valued appropriately. By recognizing and addressing these inequalities, Hollywood can pave the way for a fairer future, inspiring other sectors to follow suit.
