The path to becoming the world’s highest-paid actor or actress is often paved with blockbuster films and high-profile roles. Icons like Johnny Depp, Dwayne Johnson, Robert Downey Jr., Angelina Jolie, Margot Robbie, and Nicole Kidman have all dominated the box office and the earnings charts through their star power and successful film careers. However, the year 2020 presented a unique twist in this narrative, as one female star ascended to the top of the highest-paid actresses list without releasing a single film that year. This is the remarkable story of Sofia Vergara, the underdog superstar who defied the odds.
### How the World’s Highest-Paid Actress Had No Films
In 2020, the entertainment industry faced unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the postponement and cancellation of numerous film releases. Dwayne Johnson, a perennial favorite, topped Forbes’ list of the highest-paid actors for the third consecutive year, earning $87 million. However, the pandemic’s impact on the film industry meant that many actors missed out on their usual big paychecks, as theaters closed and major productions were halted.
Scarlett Johansson, who had held the title of the highest-paid actress for two years, found herself dethroned. Instead, Sofia Vergara emerged as the highest-paid actress of 2020, earning an impressive $43 million. This achievement was particularly notable given that she had no major film releases that year. Vergara’s success can be attributed to her ongoing work in television, which flourished during a time when traditional film avenues were largely shut down.
### Who Did Sofia Vergara Beat to the Top?
The 2020 Forbes list reflected the changing landscape of entertainment, with several television stars making their mark due to the pandemic’s effects. Sofia Vergara’s earnings placed her at the top, surpassing notable actresses such as Angelina Jolie, who earned $35 million, and Gal Gadot, who brought in $31 million. Other prominent names like Meryl Streep and Nicole Kidman also fell behind, earning $24 million and $22 million, respectively. The list highlighted a significant shift, as both Jennifer Lopez and Scarlett Johansson dropped out of the top ten entirely.
Vergara’s earnings were bolstered by her involvement in the final season of the beloved sitcom “Modern Family,” along with its associated special, “A Modern Farewell.” Additionally, she took on the role of a judge on the popular talent show “America’s Got Talent,” which further contributed to her impressive income during a year when many actors were sidelined.
### Sofia Vergara’s Recent Work
Since the conclusion of “Modern Family,” Sofia Vergara has continued to maintain her presence in the entertainment industry, although she has not reclaimed the title of the highest-paid actress. She remains active in television and streaming, appearing as a judge on “America’s Got Talent” and starring in the Netflix series “Griselda.” Vergara has also lent her voice to animated films, including “Strays” and “Despicable Me 4,” showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Vergara’s ability to adapt and thrive in a changing industry landscape is a testament to her talent and resilience. Her journey from a sitcom star to the highest-paid actress in a year of unprecedented disruption serves as an inspiring narrative of success against the odds. As the entertainment world continues to evolve, Sofia Vergara remains a prominent figure, proving that adaptability and creativity can lead to remarkable achievements, even in the most challenging of times.
