It sure pays to be a reality TV star!
Judging, feuding, fighting and showmancing can result in lots of cold hard cash.
From celebrity judges on "American Idol" and "The Voice," to reality stars from "The Real Housewives" franchise.
Stars with the biggest paychecks >
Snooki: From $1.95 million to $200,000
Snooki was once one of the highest paid reality stars at $1.95 million a season for Jersey Shore, until it all ended in December.
More recently, Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi worked hard for far less on Dancing with the Stars, on which the celebrity contestants make a reported $200,000 per season (plus bonuses depending on how long they stay on the show).
Lisa Vanderpump: $250,000
Vanderpump rules when it comes to salary on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.
The restaurateur got a Bravo spinoff show about her eateries—and also appeared on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars last season, reportedly making $200,000 for learning to rumba.
And what about her controversial co-star, Brandi Glanville? Eddie Cibrian’s ex reportedly only brought home $125,000 for last season.
Cynthia Bailey and Phaedra Parks: $300,000
The Real Housewives of Atlanta is still at the top of the housewife heap, and even supporting players Bailey and Parks reap the benefits.
When asked what it takes to be a great housewife, fashion school owner Bailey laughed, “Patience, prayer, and a great bottle of wine.” Attorney Parks, known for her bootylicious workout tape, will be coming back to feud with co-star Kenya Moore in the show this fall.
See the rest of the story at Business Insider