‘80s sitcom actor turned Amazon driver exposes cast’s residual pay reality
The 'Who's the Boss' alum discussed minimal compensation he receives for his role in the 1980s sitcom
Former "Who’s the Boss" star Danny Pintauro discussed his side job as an Amazon Flex delivery driver and the realities of the cast's residual earnings.
The actor, best known for his role as Jonathan Bower in the 1980s sitcom, shared that working for the Jeff Bezos-owned company allows him the flexibility needed for auditions.
“There's always been this curiosity about actors having ordinary jobs, and often it's viewed negatively, but I think that perspective has shifted,” he told Fox News last week.
“In today's economy, we all need to take on various jobs to support ourselves and our families,” Pintauro explained, addressing fans who believe his earnings from "Who’s the Boss" are substantial.
“Almost everyone misunderstands the concept of residuals,” he mentioned. “It's surprising how many assume that if you're recognised, you're set financially for life, which isn't true at all.”
The "Cujo" actor explained that residuals in the '80s differed significantly from today's standards, noting that "DVD collections" didn't exist.
He also mentioned there was no contract clause for handling such situations, and "reruns" were quite uncommon.
“What many don't realise is when a network or Amazon Prime [Video], for instance, acquires the series, I earn a certain amount from the purchase. However, my earnings decrease with each purchase,” Pintauro explained further.
“For example, Season 1 has been acquired numerous times, yet I receive just five to six cents per episode, and they can broadcast it as often as they wish without additional pay.”
Pintauro explained that while the show provided a decent income, much was spent on his Stanford University education, where he majored in drama, and for personal support over the years.
“So, there's no stockpile of cash lying around these days,” he concluded.
Pintauro appeared in "Who’s the Boss" over eight seasons from 1984 to 1992 alongside Tony Danza, Judith Light, and Alyssa Milano.
His recent works include the 2022 movie "A Country Christmas Harmony" and the 2025 TV series "The Comeback Kids."
Pintauro has candidly shared about his role as a delivery driver, notably in April when he remarked that “the entertainment industry has slowed considerably.”
At that time, he posted on Instagram about delivering 38 packages, noting, “there's no disgrace in staying active.”