How Much Were the Kids on 'The Brady Bunch'?

Many of us grew up watching 'The Brady Bunch,' a beloved television series that captivated audiences in the 1970s. But have you ever wondered how much the child actors were paid?

A disclosure of the actors' earnings

Access to accurate information about the salaries of child actors on 'The Brady Bunch' can be challenging. However, a detailed investigation into the matter has shed some light on the matter. According to Barry Williams, one of the original actors on the show, the highest weekly salary for child actors was $1,100 during the start of season 5, which was the final season.

Williams' book, Growing Up Brady: I Was A Teenage Greg, published in 1992, provides the clearest insight into the compensation structure. His account suggests that the main child actors, including Barry Williams and Maureen McCormick, likely made that amount, while the other children—Chris, Eve, and Susan—might have received slightly less. The reasoning behind this is that most parents would feel cheated if their child was earning less than the others. In terms of fairness, an equal pay might be more common.

Early Season Payments

It's important to note that the early seasons, where the child actors were mostly unknown, saw slightly lower earnings. For the first season, the payment was just $138 per episode, supplemented by an additional $127.65. As the series progressed and the actors became more famous, their salaries increased dramatically. By the late 1970s, more famous child actors on other shows were earning annual salaries ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 per season.

The Economic Context of 'The Brady Bunch'

The context in which 'The Brady Bunch' series aired (the 1970s) was a period of significant economic change. The American economy was recovering from the 1970s recession, with disposable income increasing for many households. This context explains why child actors could earn such substantial amounts compared to today's standards. It's intriguing to imagine how much their salaries would be in contemporary terms, given the rapid rise in living costs and inflation.

Moreover, the reality of the child actor industry during this period is quite different from how it operates today. Child actors often received more significant financial compensation and, in some cases, credit for their work, highlighting the business side of child stars in the 1970s.

Further Insights

While Barry Williams' book offers valuable details, it's worth noting that the increasing fame and recognition of 'The Brady Bunch' child actors improved their earnings over time. The famous faces of the series garnered more substantial roles in other TV shows and films, further enhancing their salaries and career prospects.

For anyone with a deeper interest in 'The Brady Bunch' or the world of child actors in the 1970s, investing in Barry Williams' book could provide additional insights and entertainement. The book, published in 1992 and now reasonably priced, offers an authentic glimpse into the lives of young actors during a significant era in entertainment history.

Resources for Further Reading

If you're interested in learning more about 'The Brady Bunch,' child actors' salaries, and the economics of early television, here are some resources you can explore:

'Growing Up Brady: I Was A Teenage Greg' Articles and forums discussing 'The Brady Bunch' on popular entertainment websites Historical records and interviews with child actors from that era

Whether you're a fan of 'The Brady Bunch' or simply curious about the '70s entertainment industry, there's a wealth of information available. Dive in and enjoy the journey back in time!