Robin Wright Opens Up About Pay Disparities Compared to Kevin Spacey on ‘House of Cards’
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Robin Wright, known for her role in the political drama series “House of Cards,” recently shed light on the discrepancies in pay between herself and her co-star, Kevin Spacey. Speaking at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival on June 16, Wright disclosed the challenges she faced in negotiating her salary for the show, which ran from 2013 to 2018.
During the event moderated by Variety, Wright shared that when she advocated for fair pay based on her character’s popularity compared to Spacey’s, the response she received was disheartening. The producers informed her that they couldn’t pay her the same as an actor, but instead offered her the roles of executive producer and director, with separate paychecks, as she had not won an Academy Award like Spacey had.
Wright, aged 59, portrayed Claire Underwood, the ambitious wife of Spacey’s character, Frank Underwood, in the groundbreaking series. She reflected on the industry norm dictating that pay disparities would only be rectified post-award wins, rather than nominations, questioning the correlation between accolades and fair compensation.
Faced with this unsettling reality, Wright opted to explore directing as an avenue to showcase her talent and expand her scope in the industry. Encouraged by a camera operator on the show, she embraced the opportunity to helm episodes, a decision that she now deems as a “gift” that enriched her career trajectory.
Moreover, following Spacey’s dismissal from the show due to allegations of sexual misconduct, Wright assumed the lead role solo in the final season. This transition marked a pivotal moment in the series and highlighted Wright’s capability to carry the narrative forward single-handedly.
Reflecting on the pioneering nature of “House of Cards” as one of Netflix’s earliest productions, Wright recalled how showrunner David Fincher envisioned its revolutionary impact on the entertainment landscape. The show’s success not only redefined television storytelling but also catapulted Wright’s career, serving as a launching pad during a period where substantial roles were scarce.
Addressing the controversial finale of the series, Wright revealed her involvement in shaping the narrative direction, also referencing her enduring iconic roles in films such as “Forrest Gump” and “The Princess Bride.” She expressed gratitude for the enduring resonance of these classic characters with audiences over the years.
Wright’s candid revelations at the event underscore the enduring challenges faced by female actors in the industry regarding fair compensation and recognition for their contributions. Her journey from advocating for equal pay to embracing creative opportunities like directing embodies a narrative of resilience and empowerment in an evolving entertainment landscape.
In conclusion, Robin Wright’s journey on “House of Cards” transcends the confines of traditional acting roles, showcasing her tenacity and versatility both on and off-screen. The legacy of her portrayal as Claire Underwood and her foray into directing mark a significant chapter in her illustrious career, underscoring the importance of advocating for gender equality in Hollywood.