Aubrey Plaza has captivated audiences with her unique brand of humor, deadpan delivery, and memorable performances in both television and film. Best known for her role as April Ludgate in the hit series “Parks and Recreation,” Plaza has since built a diverse career that spans comedy, drama, and everything in between. As her star continues to rise, many fans and industry insiders alike are curious about one thing: how much does Aubrey Plaza make?
Aubrey Plaza’s Journey to Success
Before diving into the numbers, it’s important to understand the journey that brought Aubrey Plaza to where she is today. Born on June 26, 1984, in Wilmington, Delaware, Plaza began her career in improv and sketch comedy. She honed her skills at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater in New York, a training ground for many comedic talents. Plaza’s big break came when she was cast as the sarcastic and quirky April Ludgate on “Parks and Recreation” in 2009. Her performance quickly made her a fan favorite, and the show became a launching pad for her career.
Following the success of “Parks and Recreation,” Plaza expanded her repertoire, taking on roles in indie films, mainstream movies, and even venturing into producing. Her versatility and willingness to take on unconventional roles have solidified her reputation as one of Hollywood’s most intriguing talents.
Aubrey Plaza’s Earnings from Television
A significant portion of Aubrey Plaza’s income has come from her work on television. “Parks and Recreation” ran for seven seasons, from 2009 to 2015, and Plaza was a central figure throughout its run. While exact figures for her salary on the show have not been publicly disclosed, it is estimated that her earnings per episode were in the range of $50,000 to $100,000 by the later seasons. Given that “Parks and Recreation” had a total of 125 episodes, Plaza likely earned a substantial sum from the series.
In addition to “Parks and Recreation,” Plaza has appeared in several other TV shows, including guest roles on popular series like “Criminal Minds” and “Drunk History.” These appearances, along with her recurring role on the FX series “Legion,” have contributed to her television earnings.
Film Roles and Box Office Success
Aubrey Plaza’s film career has been as eclectic as her television work. She has appeared in a mix of indie films and major studio productions, often choosing roles that allow her to showcase her unique comedic style. Some of her notable films include “Safety Not Guaranteed” (2012), “The To Do List” (2013), “Ingrid Goes West” (2017), and “Happiest Season” (2020).
While indie films typically offer lower paychecks than big-budget blockbusters, Plaza’s ability to take on diverse roles has made her a sought-after actress in the film industry. Her performance in “Ingrid Goes West,” where she also served as a producer, earned her critical acclaim and likely boosted her earning potential. It’s estimated that her film roles have contributed millions to her overall net worth, with some reports suggesting she earns between $1 million and $3 million per film, depending on the project.
Voice Acting and Other Ventures
In addition to her on-screen work, Aubrey Plaza has also lent her voice to various animated projects. She voiced the character of Grumpy Cat in the TV movie “Grumpy Cat’s Worst Christmas Ever” and has provided voices for characters in animated series such as “The Legend of Korra” and “The Simpsons.” Voice acting is a lucrative field, and while these roles may not pay as much as live-action work, they still add to Plaza’s income stream.
Moreover, Plaza has ventured into producing, both as an executive producer and a producer on several projects. Her work behind the scenes, particularly on films like “Ingrid Goes West” and the 2021 film “Black Bear,” has likely increased her earnings. Producing offers additional revenue opportunities, including profit participation, which can significantly boost an actor’s income.
Endorsements and Brand Collaborations
Like many celebrities, Aubrey Plaza has also capitalized on her fame through endorsements and brand collaborations. While she is not as heavily involved in endorsements as some of her peers, she has partnered with brands that align with her offbeat persona. For example, she starred in a series of advertisements for the beverage company Lagavulin, playing off her “Parks and Recreation” character’s love for the brand. These endorsements not only add to her income but also help maintain her public profile.
Net Worth and Annual Income
As of the latest estimates, Aubrey Plaza’s net worth is believed to be around $8 million to $10 million. This figure takes into account her earnings from television, film, voice acting, producing, and endorsements. Plaza’s income has grown steadily over the years, particularly as she has taken on more prominent roles and diversified her career.
In terms of annual income, it’s estimated that Plaza earns between $1 million and $2 million per year. This income is likely to increase as she continues to take on new projects and expand her presence in Hollywood.
What’s Next for Aubrey Plaza?
Aubrey Plaza shows no signs of slowing down. With several projects in the pipeline, including both acting and producing roles, her career is poised for further growth. Plaza’s ability to navigate both mainstream and indie projects with ease makes her a unique figure in Hollywood, and her financial success reflects her talent and versatility.
Conclusion
Aubrey Plaza has built a successful career through a combination of talent, hard work, and smart choices. From her breakthrough role in “Parks and Recreation” to her diverse filmography, Plaza has consistently pushed the boundaries of what it means to be a comedic actress. While her exact earnings may fluctuate depending on her projects, it’s clear that Plaza has established herself as a significant player in the entertainment industry. As she continues to take on new challenges, fans and industry watchers alike will be eager to see what she does next—and how much she will earn along the way.