Top 10 Highest Paid TV Stars

American Idol’s judge Simon Cowell earns a whopping $45 million a year, but is it enough to knock the queen of television off her throne? Apparently not. Earning over five times that amount, Oprah Winfrey who rakes in an amazing $260 million a year from her own show as well as guest appearances on “Rachel Ray”, “Dr. Phil” and other programs puts Simon Cowell to shame.

Here’s the complete list from TV Guide:

1. Oprah Winfrey – $260 million a year
2. Simon Cowell – $45 million a year
3. Judge Judy – $30 million a year
4. Katie Couric – $15 million a year
5. Zach Braff – $6.3 million a year
6. William Petersen – $500,000 (per episode)
7. Charlie Sheen – $350,000 (per episode)
8. Mariska Hargitay – $350,000 (per episode)
9. Christopher Meloni – $350,000 (per episode)
10. Hugh Laurie – $300,000 (per episode)

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