Box Office vs Paycheck: Deyemi Okanlawon Explains the Difference

By Vivian Nguhilen Gbede

Nigerian actor Deyemi Okanlawon has made a clear distinction between a “highest-grossing actor” and a “highest-earning actor” amid ongoing discussions about box office success within the Nigerian film industry.

In a recent conversation on film business and celebrity rankings, Okanlawon explained that the two terms are often used incorrectly. He further explained that a highest-grossing actor refers to a performer whose films generate large box-office revenues. In contrast, a highest-earning actor refers to the amount of money an individual actor personally receives through salaries, endorsements, and other sources of income. The actor also explained that strong box-office numbers do not always mean performers earn the most personally, as film revenue is usually divided among producers, distributors, marketers, and investors.