5 Child Stars That Made Big Bank In The 70s

Now-a-days, it is almost commonplace to hear about how kids on television and in movies are raking in the big bucks, sometimes unbelievably so. But this isn't anything new, as highly watched shows have always made sure to pay their actors (no matter their age) enough for more than a few candy bars.

Here's a look at the fabulously wealthy child stars from your favorite hit TV shows!

Jodie Foster

The beloved child star who rose to fame by acting in a variety of TV series' and Disney films was already critically acclaimed before reaching true stardom. After her breakout role at age 12 in Taxi Driver, she was reportedly earning over $100,000 per movie!

As she has grown older, she transitioned into more of a directorial role with hits that include House Of Cards and Orange Is The New Black.

Shaun Cassidy

Known as the hunk from The Hardy Boys, Shaun Cassidy melted hearts as he and his onscreen brother solved crimes across America. He followed this with a successful music career and always played to adoring fans with his rock-and-roll stage presence!

At the height of his fame, he took in $15,000 a week from The Hardy Boys alone! Later, he would move into Broadway acting before settling into a career as a writer and producer.

But while money may come with success, it doesn't always mean Happy Days are here to stay...

Scott Baio

There are some names that just always stick out, and many people will agree that Chachi will always be one of them. The Happy Days actor, Scott Baio, who got a spin-off show Joanie Loves Chachi, was practically a household name while the show aired during the 70's and 80's.

His earnings on Happy Days were substantial. At $30,000 an episode, he certainly wasn't saying "Wah, wah, wah!" on his way to the bank!

Tatum O'Neal

Fame can be at times misleading, but in Tatum O'Neal's case it was very much well-founded. She starred in two major motion pictures in the 70's that put her in the focus of not only audiences but critics as well. The youngest recipient of the Best Supporting Actress Academy Award, she also won an Oscar for the same role.

While she only made $16,000 as Addie Loggins in Paper Moon, due to her immediate success she more than doubled her take for The Bad News Bears only three years later, at $35,000!

Gary Coleman

Gary Coleman was known as "one of television's most promising stars" early on in his career. Unfortunately, that didn't translate into reality due to personal and financial struggles.

With casting in popular hits such as Diff'rent Strokes, The Jeffersons, and Good Times, he was making approximately $100,000 every single episode. Despite this, his parents, lawyers, and agents manipulated his finances until he was left with only a quarter of his overall earnings.

Coleman managed to live a happy life afterwards, continuing to act in a variety of productions. He passed away in 2010 at age 42.

Do you think child stars should earn huge amounts of money? Why or why not?