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In an upcoming interview on NBC News' "Sunday Today with Willie Geist," Pine revealed, "I pulled over onto the side of the freeway and they said, 'You're getting paid $65,000,' And it was like they had just told me I'd made $50 million. It was absolutely Earth-shattering." While the sum may seem modest compared to the salaries of established Hollywood stars, for Pine at the time, it was a life-changing moment.
"I got that $65,000 and I just remember distinctly knowing in that moment that my life had changed somehow, even though $60,000 at the end of the day turned out to be about $15,000," Pine continued with a laugh. He elaborated on his financial situation at the time, stating, "I owed my parents rent money. But that is a wild feeling. I'll never forget that."
While the exact figure Pine mentions for his rent might be a slight exaggeration for comedic effect, it highlights the stark contrast between the glamorous world of Hollywood and the financial realities of a young, aspiring actor. The $65,000, though seemingly low by today's standards, likely represented a significant sum compared to any previous acting jobs Pine might have had.
Pine's story resonates because it sheds light on the pay disparity that can exist in Hollywood, particularly for actors at the beginning of their careers. While established A-listers can command millions per film, newcomers often have to take on roles for lower salaries simply to gain experience and build their resumes.
However, for Pine, "The Princess Diaries 2" was more than just a paycheck. It was a stepping stone to bigger opportunities. The success of the film, coupled with his memorable performance, put him on the map and paved the way for him to land lead roles in major studio productions.
Looking back, Pine acknowledges the significance of that initial "earth-shattering" paycheck. It wasn't just about the money itself, but the promise it represented a chance to establish himself in Hollywood and pursue a career in acting.
