Keke Palmer says she wasn’t properly paid in Hollywood until Jordan Peele’s Nope, 20 years into her career

Keke Palmer has spoken about inequality in salary earnings in Hollywood. In an interview with Business Insider, the Joyful Noise actress, who became a screen darling at age 12 with Akeelah and the Bee, expressed her dissatisfaction with her salary in the film industry.

Palmer revealed that she didn’t feel adequately paid until Nope, her 2022 movie with Jordan Peele. The actress stated,

“‘Nope,’ that was probably the first time.”

The multi-hyphenate entertainer revealed that being a Black person, she doesn’t compare herself because she’s not as privileged.

"I don't compare — especially as a Black person, a Black woman — because it's not a fair thing to do to myself. I don't think that comparing oneself makes sense in any regard because you're not at the same vantage point, beginning or otherwise, as someone else."

She added that being able to afford her needs was paramount to her:

"If you are getting your needs met, that has to be at the forefront of your mind. That doesn't mean that everything is fair, but it's an important thing to think about and have a particular perspective about."

Keke Palmer shared that she had diversified her income streams and encouraged others to do the same

Palmer revealed that her low earnings in the industry have made her seek multiple sources of income. The 31-year-old owns multiple production companies and is a singer, TV host, author, and podcaster.

In the interview, Keke Palmer revealed that her brand was a holding company with a subsidiary and stressed the importance of diversifying.

The actress addressed the rumors of her net worth in an interview with Speedy Norman in August 2023. At the time, Keke Palmer’s net worth was estimated by news outlets to be around $7.5 million.

She debunked the claim, stating:

“Y’all can’t believe net worths. Because first of all, they said my net worth was $7.5 million when I only had $100,000 in the bank. They’re lies. Do not look at those. Do not look at that, okay? It’s inaccurate.”

The actress revealed that there were times when the number was lower than the supposed amount, but at the time, it had become higher. Keke added,

“There was times where it was less, now it’s more. But there was times where it was less than that. That’s why I’m like, don’t believe that.”

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Other actresses who have spoken out about unequal pay include Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Viola Davis and Mo’Nique.

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