The early 2000s brought us numerous memorable TV shows, but Gilmore Girls has proven to be particularly enduring. The beloved dramedy continues to attract new viewers through streaming platforms, even after more than 20 years since its first episode aired. But what financial benefits are the cast members receiving from its ongoing popularity?
During her appearance on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Lauren Graham, who portrayed Lorelai Gilmore, revealed the surprising truth about her residual earnings from the hit series — and the amount is minimal.
“There really are no residuals on Netflix,” the 58-year-old actress admitted. (The streaming giant picked up the series for streaming in 2016.) “But I’ve been paid in love.”
After discussing Graham’s latest venture, The Z-Suite, and an unusual present from her sister, Shade Grant, Kimmel, 57, returned to the topic.
“I still can’t believe you don’t get any residuals,” the comedian said.
Graham responded with quick humor. “Let’s not talk about it anymore!” she laughed. “I’m in trouble.”
Graham isn’t alone in highlighting the residual issue. During the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike, Sean Gunn (who played Kirk Gleason in the show) told The Hollywood Reporter that despite the show’s massive success on Netflix for over ten years, he’s received “almost none” of the profits.
Though the financial rewards from Gilmore Girls remain frozen in time, Graham maintains deep affection for Stars Hollow — and she’s contemplating ways to return to that world.
Recently, the Parenthood actress suggested the possibility of another Gilmore Girls revival, specifically in holiday movie format. “Given everyone’s lives and schedules, it’s a Christmas movie,” she said on the Armchair Expert podcast. “It’s literally what I could picture.”
In the meantime, Graham’s co-star Alexis Bledel, known for playing Rory Gilmore, has carved out an impressive career path post-Gilmore Girls, notably appearing in The Handmaid’s Tale, which brought her an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series in 2017.
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