15 Most Expensive TV Shows Ever Made
Making TV can cost a fortune, especially for epic productions. From elaborate sets to special effects, these shows had massive budgets. Here are 15 of the most expensive TV series in history.
1. “The Rings of Power”
Amazon’s “The Rings of Power” takes the top spot as one of the most expensive TV shows ever, with its first season alone estimated to cost around $465 million. This massive budget is reflective of its high-quality visual effects, expansive sets, and the cost of bringing J.R.R. Tolkien’s world to life.
2. “Game of Thrones”
HBO’s “Game of Thrones” started with a significant budget that grew with each season, peaking in its final seasons at an estimated $15 million per episode. This investment went into complex sets, large-scale battle scenes, and intricate costumes, all contributing to the show’s worldwide success.
3. “The Crown”
Netflix’s “The Crown” is renowned for its lavish production design and detailed recreations of historical events. Its budget is reported to be around $13 million per episode, making it one of the most expensive dramas, focusing on the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.
4. “The Mandalorian”
“The Mandalorian,” part of the Star Wars universe, famously utilizes groundbreaking technology like the Volume, a 360-degree video wall that creates dynamic environments. This technology contributes to its hefty price tag of approximately $15 million per episode.
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5. “WandaVision”
Marvel’s “WandaVision” combines superhero narratives with homages to classic TV shows, featuring high production values typical of Marvel Studios. Each episode costs about $25 million, driven by its cinematic quality and special effects.
6. “Stranger Things”
Over the seasons, “Stranger Things” has seen its budget increase significantly, with later seasons costing around $12 million per episode. The series’ blend of 80s nostalgia, special effects, and a large ensemble cast contribute to its expenses.
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7. “The Pacific”
This World War II miniseries from HBO, a companion to “Band of Brothers,” had a budget estimated at $20 million per episode. Its high costs were attributed to authentic period detail, extensive battle scenes, and filming across multiple international locations.
8. “Westworld”
HBO’s “Westworld” blends Western themes with futuristic sci-fi, costing about $10 million per episode. The show’s complex narrative, visual effects, and detailed set designs justify its budget.
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9. “Friends”
While not initially one of the most expensive shows, by its final seasons, “Friends” had become one of the priciest due to the salaries of its star-studded cast, each member earning $1 million per episode by the end.
10. “ER”
At its peak, “ER” was groundbreaking for its fast-paced, medical drama, costing up to $13 million per episode, partly due to its large ensemble cast and expensive action-packed medical scenes.
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11. “Marco Polo”
Netflix’s “Marco Polo” was ambitious but ultimately didn’t last beyond two seasons. It cost an estimated $90 million for the first season, focusing on lavish sets and extensive period costumes.
12. “Lost”
“Lost” is famous not only for its intricate plot but also for its production, costing up to $14 million for the pilot and around $4 million per episode thereafter. The show’s remote shooting locations and large ensemble cast were significant factors in its budget.
13. “The Get Down”
Baz Luhrmann’s “The Get Down” focused on the birth of hip-hop in the 1970s, costing approximately $120 million for the first season. The show combined elaborate musical numbers with detailed period settings.
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14. “Band of Brothers”
Another entry from HBO, “Band of Brothers” cost about $12.5 million per episode. Its detailed recreation of World War II battles and locations contributed heavily to its expenses.
15. “Rome”
“Rome” was one of HBO’s earlier endeavors into high-budget series, with costs around $100 million for the first season. It stood out for its accurate historical depiction of ancient Rome, extensive sets, and large cast.
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