TLC has a reputation for pumping out dramatic reality television, and ”90 Day Fiancé” is no exception. The show, which has led to the network creating several spin-off shows, is now going into an eighth season.
All of this has brought up an important question for many fans. How much are the stars of this show getting paid? Is TLC really paying enough money for these couples to make a living? The answer may be surprising, especially when looking at the figures for other reality TV shows.
For many couples who appear on the reality show, it is not immediately profitable to consider applying for the show. In fact, it is required that all cast members apply for a K-1 visa before they apply for the show, at least for the original series. The application process can be costly on its own, and TLC does not pay for it.
Also notable is the fact that couples must come to TLC already in a relationship. TLC does not pair up the couples.
So, what about payment? One thing TLC must take into consideration is the fact that one-half of the people on the show are not United States citizens, which complicates matters. For this reason, rumor has it that only the Americans who appear on "90 Day" are paid. The foreign cast members are expected to take up their payment with the Americans, but seemingly this does not always work out well if the couple is not able to make their love last.
Screen Rant reports that “90 Day Fiancé” stars make about $1,000 per episode on which they appear. They also receive a bonus for appearing on the tell-all episode at the end of the season. Allegedly, those who appear on “Before the 90 Days” and “The Other Way” make less money per episode, and those who appear on “Happily Ever After” receive slightly more.
For those who live in certain countries, like the Philippines, the US dollar can go a bit further.
Still, when you compare the salary of “90 Day” cast members to those on other shows, it’s relatively low. The stars of the “Real Housewives” franchise make six figures per season, and some make millions based on their popularity.
Some “Teen Mom” stars also make six figures. Peak earnings for Jenelle Evans, Kailyn Lowry, and Amber Portwood have neared $300,000 per season.
The leads of “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette” apparently make upwards of $100,000 for a single season.
While TLC may not be the highest-paying network in the game, many of the cast members have been able to find a well-paying niche for themselves, it would seem.
