"Shameless" season 8 was a sure thing as far as Showtime is concerned but this time, the show's future is uncertain. The network is still negotiating with lead star Emmy Rossum who is rumored to be holding out for a better deal.
"Shameless" Season 8 Negotiations
"Shameless" season 7 is going to end on Dec. 18 and Showtime is planning to renew the series for season 8. Based on the latest insider information, the negotiations for season 8 could be delayed since the show's lead actress, Emmy Rossum, is asking for a higher salary. Reports indicate that Rossum, who plays the role of Fiona in the show, wants to be paid more than William H. Macy.
Unless Rossum and the network agree on a price, the negotiations for an eighth season will be at a standstill. Showtime never imagined the show without her and they will not be able to proceed with their plans for season 8 until the negotiations are completed.
Emmy Rossum's Salary Demands
Rossum has been with "Shameless" since its first season in 2011. Some media outlets reported that Rossum is asking for salary parity but insiders say that she has been given the same deal that the network offered to Macy. This offer, according to the source, is proof that the network sees her as an integral part of the show. What the 30-year-old actress wants is for the network to pay her more than Macy to make up for the past seven seasons where she received a lesser pay.
When "Shameless" started, Macy was offered a higher salary compared to everyone else in the cast because of his experience. The 66-year-old was more popular than Rossum, hence, the salary disparity. Reports also indicate that Macy already accepted the deal from the network for "Shameless" season 8 although everyone is still waiting for Rossum's camp to accept the offer. Amid the circulating rumors, Warner Bros. and Showtime refused to comment on the issue.
For now, "Shameless" season 8 is in danger of cancelation. Unless Rossum's camp agrees on the right price, the negotiations remain to be at a standstill which could delay the renewal of the series.
