“10 Things I Hate About You” Star Andrew Keegan Says Some of His Residuals Amount to ‘One Cent Checks’

Andrew Keegan, the beloved star of numerous 1990s classics, has candidly discussed the reality of residual payments from some of his most iconic projects. In a recent appearance on The McBride Rewind podcast, hosted by Josh McBride, the 47-year-old actor shared some surprising insights regarding the financial rewards of his acting career, particularly after the resurgence of interest in nostalgic films.

Keegan, known for his role as Joey Donner in the classic teen film “10 Things I Hate About You,” revealed that some residual checks he receives are shockingly low. During the podcast aired on May 7, he recounted instances in which he has received checks for as little as one penny. “It costs like 40 cents to send in the mail,” he remarked humourously, expressing that such small amounts hardly justify the effort involved in cashing them.

When prompted about his residual payments, Keegan confirmed that he sometimes neglects to check the details behind these minuscule amounts, deeming it “not worth my time.” His comments highlight a somewhat frustrating aspect of the entertainment industry that many actors face even years after their shows and movies have long finished airing.

Despite the small payoffs from some projects, Keegan did indicate that not all of his residuals are negligible. He pointed out that his role in “10 Things I Hate About You” continues to yield the largest residual payments, suggesting that the film remains popular enough to generate ongoing financial benefits. He noted, “I think 10 Things are probably the biggest checks still,” though he clarified that these can vary significantly, ranging from $10 to a maximum of about $80.

The actor, who garnered attention in other notable films including “The Broken Hearts Club” and popular television shows such as “Full House” and “7th Heaven,” stated that he is frequently recognised for his portrayal of Joey. Reflecting on his character, Keegan said he perceives Joey as multifaceted, highlighting his potentially sweet nature despite being a stereotypical ‘playboy.’

In a previous conversation with PEOPLE at a nostalgic event in 2024, Keegan expressed pride in the character he portrayed. He felt a level of personal connection with Joey, remarking, “We bring ourselves as actors to the roles; there’s a little piece of us in the roles. And I think I’m sweet.” This sentiment underscores the complex relationship actors often have with their on-screen personas.

The discussion around residuals and their impact on actors, particularly those from the 1990s, sheds light on broader industry trends. As viewing habits evolve in the digital age, many former stars can experience fluctuating incomes based on the rediscovery of their work by new audiences or through streaming platforms.

Despite the challenges presented by minimal residuals, Keegan’s ongoing connection with fans, along with the continued relevance of his roles, suggests that actors from that era still hold a notable place in popular culture. With the rise of nostalgia-driven sentiments, it’s likely that films like “10 Things I Hate About You” will continue to resonate with audiences, thereby sustaining some financial benefits for their original cast members.

As the conversation around entertainment finances, streaming, and the future of residual payments continues, actors in similar positions to Keegan may find ways to navigate these challenges while maintaining their ties to beloved characters. Overall, Keegan’s revelations serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of careers in the ever-shifting landscape of the film and television industry.