Los Angeles, California – Patricia Richardson, best known for her role as Jill Taylor on the beloved ABC sitcom “Home Improvement,” recently revealed in an interview with the Los Angeles Times that she made a bold decision regarding the show’s future. Richardson cited a significant pay gap between herself and co-star Tim Allen as a driving factor in her departure from the series.
Despite being offered $1 million per episode by ABC for a ninth season, Richardson reportedly declined due to the stark contrast in salary compared to Allen’s $2 million per episode. In an effort to advocate for equal pay and recognition, Richardson proposed to ABC that she receive the same compensation as Allen and be credited as an executive producer in order to continue with the show. However, she acknowledged that she knew her demands were unlikely to be met, using it as a way to assert her decision to not return for another season.
The veteran actress expressed frustration over the disparity in pay, stating that despite her significant contributions to the show and its appeal to female viewers, she never received a fraction of what Allen earned. Richardson’s stance ultimately led to the conclusion of “Home Improvement” after its eighth season in 1999, leading to some tensions between her and Allen.
Reflecting on her time on the show, Richardson admitted feeling conflicted towards Allen for his decision to continue without her, while Allen, in turn, expressed disappointment over her departure. Despite the past differences, Richardson and Allen eventually reunited on Allen’s subsequent series, “Last Man Standing,” with Richardson expressing continued admiration for working with him.
Richardson’s decision to prioritize fair compensation and personal well-being over the show’s continuation sheds light on the ongoing conversation surrounding pay equity and representation in the entertainment industry. Her willingness to take a stand serves as a testament to the importance of advocating for equal treatment and recognition in the workplace.