Jaws Child Actor Reveals Shocking Residual Earnings 50 Years

How Much Does the "Jaws" Kid Still Make from the Iconic Movie?

Fifty years after its release, Jaws remains one of the most legendary films in Hollywood history. But what about its cast, especially the child actors? One of them, who played a minor but memorable role, has revealed the jaw-dropping amount he still earns from the classic thriller.

Who Is the "Jaws" Child Star?

The actor we're discussing is Jeffrey Voorhees, known for his role as Alex Kintner—the young boy who meets a tragic fate thanks to the shark in one of the film's most surprising moments. Time was brief, and his character’s death became a pivotal moment in the movie.

Residuals: The Surprising Long-Term Paycheck

Many actors earn residual payments long after a film’s release, especially if it continues to be broadcast, streamed, or sold. Voorhees recently disclosed that he still receives around $1,000 to $2,000 per year from Jaws residuals.

While that may not seem like a fortune, it’s remarkable for a role that lasted only minutes. Over 50 years, those payments have added up to tens of thousands of dollars—all for a job he did as a child.

Why Does "Jaws" Still Generate Money?

- Evergreen Popularity Jaws remains a cultural phenomenon, frequently aired on TV and available on streaming platforms.

- Merchandising & Licensing: The film’s iconic status means continued DVD/Blu-ray sales, merchandise, and even theme park references.

- Home Rentals & Streaming: Platforms like Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and HBO Max keep the movie in circulation, generating royalties.

How Do Movie Residuals Work? Residuals refer to the payments received by actors, writers, and directors when a film or television program is re-broadcast, sold, or streamed online. The exact amount depends on:

- The actor’s original contract

- The type of distribution (theatrical, TV, streaming)

- The frequency of broadcasts

For older films like Jaws, contracts were often less favorable than modern deals, meaning today’s actors might earn even more from long-term residuals.

Other "Jaws" Stars: Who Else Still Earns?

-- Roy Scheider (Chief Brody): He reportedly had consistent earnings from residuals until he died in 2008. Richard Dreyfuss (Matt Hooper): He probably continues to get payments because the movie remains popular.

Robert Shaw (Quint): His estate may still benefit from royalties.

FAQs About Movie Residuals

1. Do all actors get residuals?

Not always. It depends on their contract and union agreements (SAG-AFTRA for U.S. actors).

2. How long do residuals last?

As long as the film is shared, it can go on without end.

3. Do child actors get residuals?

Yes, if their contracts included residual clauses, though sometimes parents or trusts manage the payments.

4. What’s the biggest residual paycheck ever?

Shows like Friends and The Simpsons generate millions in annual residuals for their stars.

Why This Story Matters

Voorhees’ story highlights how a single role can provide lifelong income—even for minor actors. It also underscores the importance of residual rights, a hot topic in Hollywood amid streaming wars and labor disputes.

Final Thoughts

Fifty years later, Jaws isn’t just a classic—it’s still a money-making machine for those involved. For Jeffrey Voorhees, his brief but unforgettable role continues to pay off, proving that in Hollywood, some paychecks never stop swimming in.

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