Simon Baker Nets Mentalist Pay Day

I wonder if Patrick Jane would have seen this coming? Okay, it’s cheesy but not a bad opening when talking about a guy who’s making the big bucks playing a reformed fake psychic medium who now uses his powers of observation to help solve crimes.

Deadline brings word that Simon Baker is putting the finishing touches on a deal with Warner Brothers Television that will have him earning over $30 million for appearing on the CBS drama, The Mentalist, and that’s in addition to the money he’s already being paid. In addition to that very impressive number, Baker would also get an additional piece of the revenue from the show’s backend, as well as getting credit as producer on the show starting in the fifth season. In return, he extends his contract from six years to seven.

I’m honestly not sure about the strategy that went on with this deal. The Mentalist was a big hit when it debuted in 2008 but it’s already showing a decline. The audience decreased by 6% and adult viewers ages 18 to 49 have dropped by 15%. It doesn’t seem like a major slip but can you imagine where the ratings might be seven years down the road if that trend continues?

Maybe Warner Brothers Television has a psychic medium of their own.