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Actor's shocking residual pay revealed
5 Jun
Summary
- Actor receives only $150 annually from a major holiday film.
- Residual payments decrease each time a movie is broadcast.
- Oppenheimer residuals far exceed those from older projects.

David Krumholtz, known for his role as Head Elf Bernard in The Santa Clause franchise, shared details about his residual earnings. Over 30 years after the 1994 film's release, Krumholtz receives approximately $150 annually from the holiday movie. He explained that residual payments operate on a grade scale, diminishing each time a film is broadcast. Initially, these checks were more substantial, but they have since decreased significantly.
When asked about his current highest-earning residuals, Krumholtz humorously revealed it is from the 2023 film Oppenheimer. He playfully deflected a direct question about the specific amount from the Christopher Nolan blockbuster, emphasizing its private nature. The actor's comments shed light on the fluctuating nature of residual income in the film industry.