26 Years Later: The Lasting Impact of James Cameron’s Titanic on its Cast

In 1997, James Cameron's film “Titanic” shook the world of cinema. This masterpiece became one of the highest grossing films in history: it grossed $1.2 billion from VHS and DVD sales added to the film's $2.2 billion in theatrical receipts. Despite the undisputed stars, Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, the film also features a large ensemble of actors and extras. Among these secondary roles, that of Reece Thompson stands out. Then aged five, he played a young boy traveling third class with his family. Although his character appears briefly, this role is still earning him money 26 years after the film's release!

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A financially savvy decision

At the time of filming, Reece Thompson could have chosen to work in a commercial, potentially more lucrative for a child. However, he and his mother decided to accept the role in “Titanic.” A decision that proved successful. In addition to the unique experience of participating in a historic film alongside James Cameron, Thompson received financial benefit from this participation. Shortly after the film's release, the little Irish boy received around $30,000 for his line alone “What are we doing, Mom?”

A lot. Much of that money was used over the years to pay for college, cars, and other things I needed.

This first paycheck was just the beginning. In subsequent years, Thompson continued to receive residual paymentsparticularly during the film's DVD and Blu-ray releases, as well as during milestone anniversary celebrations: “I still get them from time to time, but they're nowhere near as big as they were when the movie came out“

Ongoing residual income

Although annual check amounts have decreased over time, Thompson continues to receive payments, illustrating the longevity of residual income in the film industry. In 2018, he said the amounts were now more modest, between $100 and $250 per year. These amounts, although tiny compared to the first ones, always represent a pleasant surprise. Each payment recalls the importance of this small role in one's career and underlines the financial sustainability of participations in large-scale cinematographic works. Reece Thompson, through his one line of dialogue, continues to benefit from the enduring success of “Titanic“. This shows that even the smallest roles are important!