Top 10 Highest Paid Tamil Actors in 2025: Vijay to Rajinikanth

The Tamil film industry, colloquially known as Kollywood, has produced some of the most iconic and highest-paid actors in Indian cinema. This vibrant industry is characterized by its unique storytelling, cultural richness, and dedicated fan base that spans across the globe. At the forefront of this cinematic landscape are actors whose box office appeal translates into staggering remuneration packages, often reflecting their star power and the commercial viability of their films.

The highest-paid Tamil actors not only dominate the local market but also have significant influence in other film industries, showcasing their versatility across various genres and languages. Leading the pack is Thalapathy Vijay establishing him as a formidable presence in Kollywood. Rajinikanth, a legendary figure whose career spans over four decades also one of the highest paid actors in Tamil cinema.

Other notable actors, such as Kamal Haasan and Ajith Kumar, also feature prominently on this list, with their earnings reflecting both their enduring popularity and the high stakes of Tamil cinema today. As the industry evolves, these actors continue to set new benchmarks for remuneration, driven by their ability to draw audiences and create cinematic experiences that resonate deeply with fans.

1. Joseph Vijay

Remuneration Per Movie: ₹130 crore to ₹275 crore

Joseph Vijay, popularly known as Thalapathy, is one of the highest-paid and most commercially successful actors in Tamil cinema, charging between ₹130 crore to ₹275 crore per film. With a net worth of ₹450 crore – ₹600 crore, he has acted in 68 films over three decades, with many ranking among the highest-grossing Tamil films.

Born to director S. A. Chandrasekhar, Vijay began his career as a child actor in Vetri (1984) and made his lead debut with Naalaiya Theerpu (1992). His stardom soared with blockbusters like Thuppakki (2012), Kaththi (2014), Mersal (2017), Sarkar (2018), Master (2021), Leo (2023), and The Greatest of All Time (2024). Renowned for his mass appeal, Vijay remains a dominant force in South Indian cinema.

2. Rajinikanth

Remuneration Per Movie: ₹125 crore to ₹270 crore

Rajinikanth, one of the highest paid Tamil actors, commands a remuneration of ₹125 crore to ₹270 crore per film. With a career spanning over five decades and 170 films across multiple languages, he is regarded as one of Indian cinema’s most iconic stars.

Known for his signature style and powerful on-screen presence, he enjoys an unmatched cult following. Honored with the Padma Bhushan (2000), Padma Vibhushan (2016), and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2019), he has also won several accolades, including seven Tamil Nadu State Film Awards and a Filmfare Award.

3. Ajith Kumar

Remuneration Per Movie: ₹105 crore to ₹165 crore

Ajith Kumar, one of the highest-paid actors in South India, commands a fee of ₹105 crore to ₹165 crore per film, with a net worth of ₹350 crore. With a career spanning over 61 films, he has won multiple awards, including three Filmfare Awards South and three Tamil Nadu State Film Awards.

Beyond acting, Ajith is a passionate racing driver, having competed in the MRF Racing series and Formula championships. His influence extends beyond cinema, earning him a spot in the Forbes India Celebrity 100 list multiple times.

4. Kamal Haasan

Remuneration Per Movie: ₹100 crore to ₹150 crore

A legendary figure in Indian cinema, he has worked across multiple industries, including Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Malayalam films. He charges between ₹100 crore to ₹150 crore per film and has a net worth of ₹450 crore.

Known for pushing cinematic boundaries, Haasan has won four National Film Awards, nine Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, and numerous Filmfare Awards. He has also been honored with prestigious accolades like the Padma Shri (1990), Padma Bhushan (2014), and the Chevalier Order of Arts and Letters (2016).

5. Suriya

Remuneration Per Movie: ₹39 crore to ₹60 crore

Suriya, one of the highest-paid actors in Tamil cinema, earns between ₹39 crore to ₹60 crore per film. He reportedly commanded a ₹39 crore salary for Kanguva.

Known for his versatility and powerful performances, he has received two National Film Awards, six Filmfare Awards South, and five Tamil Nadu State Film Awards. Featured multiple times in Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list, he remains a dominant force in Tamil cinema, both as an actor and producer.

6. Dhanush

Remuneration Per Movie: ₹20 crore to ₹50 crore

Dhanush, one of Tamil cinema’s highest-paid actors, earns between ₹20 crore to ₹50 crore per film. With a career spanning over 50 films, he has won four National Film Awards, eight Filmfare Awards South, and fourteen SIIMA Awards. Also a filmmaker, lyricist, and playback singer, he has been featured in Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list multiple times, cementing his influence in Indian cinema.

7. Sivakarthikeyan

Remuneration Per Movie: ₹20 crore to ₹35 crore

Sivakarthikeyan, popularly known as SK, is a versatile actor, playback singer, and producer in Tamil cinema. With a remuneration of ₹20 crore to ₹35 crore per film, he is among the industry’s highest-paid stars. Honored with the Kalaimamani Award in 2021, he has delivered several box office hits, including Amaran (2024), which became the second highest-grossing Tamil film of the year. His ability to connect with audiences has solidified his place in the industry.

8. Vikram

Remuneration Per Movie: ₹20 crore to ₹30 crore

Vikram, one of Tamil cinema’s most celebrated actors, commands a remuneration of ₹20 crore to ₹30 crore per film. Known for his dedication and versatility, he has won numerous accolades, including a National Film Award and multiple Filmfare Awards South.

His biggest box office successes include I (2015) and Ponniyin Selvan (2022, 2023). In 2024, he starred in Thangalaan, earning ₹25 crore for his role. With a career spanning over three decades, Vikram remains a powerhouse performer in the industry.

9. Karthi

Remuneration Per Movie: ₹15 crore to ₹35 crore

Karthi, one of Tamil cinema’s highest-paid actors, earns between ₹15 crore to ₹35 crore per film. The younger brother of Suriya and son of veteran actor Sivakumar, he made his debut with Paruthiveeran (2007), which became a major breakthrough.

Known for his versatile performances, he has delivered hits like Paiyaa (2010), Naan Mahaan Alla (2010), and Siruthai (2011). With a strong fan base and consistent box office success, Karthi remains a prominent figure in the industry.

10. Vijay Sethupathi

Remuneration Per Movie: ₹15 crore to ₹21 crore

Vijay Sethupathi, known for his natural performances and versatility, commands a remuneration of ₹15 crore to ₹21 crore per film. After starting his career with minor roles, he gained recognition with Thenmerku Paruvakaatru (2010) and rose to fame in 2012 with Sundarapandian, Pizza, and Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom.

With a National Film Award, two Filmfare Awards South, and two Tamil Nadu State Film Awards to his credit, he remains one of Tamil cinema’s most bankable stars.

Also See