Heard During Pilot Season

11:25 PM PDT 5/11/2011 by THR staff

Tim Allen's (sort of) rich deal, Vodka synergy and a streak in jeopardy.

Rewired for Today's Landscape: Tim Allen's deal illustrates the power of a proven star and the diminished expectations of talent in a changing TV landscape. Luring the star back to ABC for his untitled pilot wasn't cheap. Sources who have seen his contract say he's getting $220,000 per episode with a 7.5 percent backend (off adjusted gross) and a $1 million penalty if the pilot doesn't go to series. It's a top-market deal, but one source tells THR, "Five years ago, a major star like that would've gotten $400,000 per episode and a $3 million to $4 million penalty."