Robert Downey Jr. Tops List of Highest-Paid Actors of 2015
by Andy Neuenschwander
Robert Downey Jr. is the highest-paid actor of the year yet again, and it isn't even close.
The "Iron Man" actor brought in an incredible $80 million this year, thanks to his pay for "Avengers: Age of Ultron" and his lucrative back-end deals with Marvel. The number puts him a full $30 million above the actor in second place, Jackie Chan.
Chan's name might surprise American audiences, but the actor is still one of the most recognizable celebrities in China, where the film industry is booming. In at #3 is Vin Diesel, who brought in $47 million thanks to the continued success of the "Fast & Furious" franchise and the release of "Furious 7."
At #4 is Bradley Cooper, who made about $41.5 million by appearing in a number of projects including the Oscar-nominated "American Sniper." Adam Sandler came in at #5 with $41 million despite the critical failure of his recent projects, including the critically panned "Pixels." Following him was Tom Cruise, who continues to make big action movies and pulled $40 million as a result.
Other notables on the list include Chow Yun-Fat, who brought in $18 million and is still taking advantage of the Chinese film industry, and Chris Pratt, who earned $13 million thanks to his part in the Marvel universe and his role in the mega-hit "Jurassic World."
Two comedic actors also made the list for the first time, as Seth Rogen and Jonah Hill showed up with $17 million and $10 million, respectively. For the complete list, check out Forbes' full report.