Exclusive: How this actress became the world’s highest-paid, outearning Meryl Streep, Gal Gadot, and others…..See More

Sofia Vergara, best known for her role in Modern Family, surpassed A-list Hollywood stars to claim the title, earning a staggering $43 million.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped Hollywood, shutting down theatres and stalling blockbuster releases. Yet, amidst the industry’s financial turmoil, one actress stunned everyone by topping the Forbes list of highest-paid actresses—without starring in a single film that year. Sofia Vergara, best known for her role in Modern Family, surpassed A-list Hollywood stars to claim the title, earning a staggering $43 million.

How Sofia Vergara Became the Highest-Paid Actress
While Dwayne Johnson led the male rankings with $87 million, Sofia Vergara’s earnings came primarily from television and endorsements. In 2020, she appeared in the final season of Modern Family, as well as its farewell special, A Modern Farewell. Additionally, she signed on as a judge for America’s Got Talent (AGT) Season 15, securing a lucrative deal. Her growing presence in television and brand endorsements ensured she
remained a top earner, even when major film stars saw their paychecks shrink.

Who Did She Beat to the Top?
Vergara’s television dominance helped her outpace Angelina Jolie ($35 million), Gal Gadot ($31 million), Meryl Streep ($24 million), and Nicole Kidman ($22 million). Meanwhile, Jennifer Lopez and Scarlett Johansson, who previously topped the list, dropped out of the top 10 altogether due to the pandemic’s impact on the film industry.

What’s Next for Sofia Vergara?
Since her Modern Family days, Vergara has continued thriving in television, remaining a judge on America’s Got Talent and starring in the Netflix series Griselda. She has also ventured into voice acting, with roles in animated films like Strays and the upcoming Despicable Me 4. While she may not be Hollywood’s highest-paid actress today, her 2020 success remains a testament to her ability to dominate entertainment beyond the big screen.