Nicolas Cage revealed at the 2024 SXSW Film Festival that he may have never been paid for his iconic role in the 1995 drama Leaving Las Vegas, despite winning the Best Actor award at the 68th Academy Awards. Cage expressed that the lack of compensation did not bother him as he felt compelled to play the role of troubled screenwriter Ben in the film.
In Leaving Las Vegas, Cage's character, Ben, moves to Las Vegas and forms a relationship with a prostitute named Sera, played by Elizabeth Shue. The movie delves into their intersecting lives and garnered critical acclaim. Cage's dedication to the role was unwavering, regardless of payment.
The film's director, Mike Figgis, also revealed that neither he nor Cage received their $100,000 fees for their work on the movie. Despite the film's success at the box office, the studio claimed it did not turn a profit. Figgis and Shue received Oscar nominations for their contributions to the film, but Cage was the sole winner that year.
Cage's career has seen continued success, with another Academy Award nomination for his role in Adaptation. He recently appeared at the 96th Oscars with his wife, Riko Shibata, where he presented an award and celebrated the performances of his fellow actors.
While the issue of unpaid fees for Leaving Las Vegas may have raised eyebrows, Cage remains focused on his craft. His upcoming movie, Arcadian, is set to release on April 12, showcasing his enduring passion for acting.
