**Amanda Seyfried Criticises Paramount Over ‘Mean Girls’ Merch Royalties**
Amanda Seyfried, best known for her portrayal of Karen Smith in the cult classic *Mean Girls*, has reignited discussions around actors’ rights to merchandise royalties. The actress, who appeared in the 2004 teen film at just 17, recently voiced her frustration about not receiving financial compensation for the frequent use of her image on *Mean Girls*-branded merchandise.
In a candid conversation with Adam Brody for Variety’s ‘Actors on Actors’ series, Seyfried addressed the enduring appeal of the film while also admitting to mixed feelings every time she sees her face emblazoned on T-shirts. “I love seeing my face on people’s T-shirts,” Seyfried remarked, acknowledging the film’s iconic status. However, she added, “I’m a little resentful because Paramount still owes me some money for the likeness. Every store sells *Mean Girls* T-shirts with our faces.”
Seyfried’s comments shed light on an issue affecting many actors tied to legacy films. When asked whether she ever receives royalties from the continued merchandising of the film, Seyfried questioned if her youth and relative inexperience at the time of signing her contract left her without adequate protection. “Don’t I [get something from that]? Is it because I was 17 and dumb? Or is it…?” she mused, highlighting the naivety with which many young actors sign rights away, often without fully anticipating future commercial success.
Despite feeling aggrieved about missing potential earnings, Seyfried expressed enduring gratitude for the film’s loyal fanbase. She recounted how people from all walks of life—such as a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent in the US—regularly mention the film as their favourite. “I’m like, ‘Great! I had nothing to do with it, I was 17…’” she joked, blending both pride and detachment about her early role in the industry.
Away from discussing business and contracts, Seyfried also reminisced about her off-screen friendship with Brody, with whom she appeared in the horror comedy *Jennifer’s Body*. Recalling a time they shared while working together, she revealed that her experience with cannabis was largely shaped by her interactions with him. “I don’t know if I could do pot again. I think I’m allergic to it. I had some bad experiences,” she admitted, yet also remembered peaceful moments, saying, “I think the only time I’ve enjoyed pot was with you, so thank you.”
Their discussion turned light-hearted as the pair reflected on their time together, with Brody credited by Seyfried for helping people feel comfortable—a trait Brody attributes to awareness of his own discomfort. “I really appreciate that, I think because I’m pretty attuned to people’s discomfort because I’m in touch with my own.”
Seyfried’s revelations arrive at a time when entertainment industry contracts and merchandising rights are under heightened scrutiny. With the industry’s landscape shifting, particularly in the age of digital content and nostalgia-fuelled merchandise, more actors are speaking out about fair compensation for the ongoing use of their likenesses.
While Paramount has yet to comment on Seyfried’s remarks, her words echo broader concerns faced by many performers who contributed to beloved classics before the era of comprehensive royalty agreements. The ongoing conversation could prompt studios to reconsider how they handle merchandising and compensation, especially for films with enduring popularity like *Mean Girls*.
As Seyfried continues to enjoy a successful career, including her acclaimed work in *Mamma Mia!* and other projects, her advocacy for fair compensation serves as a reminder of the changing dynamics within the film industry. For now, fans can appreciate that, although Seyfried did not anticipate her image becoming a pop culture staple, she continues to embrace the affection and support of her audience—all while highlighting an important issue for future generations of actors.