Sony Hackers Reveal How Much Seth Rogen and James Franco Were Paid for The Interview

Film seems to be at the center of a massive security breach

By Alyssa Toomey Dec 04, 2014 5:34 PMTags
James Franco, Seth Rogen, The InterviewColumbia Pictures

Hackers who were responsible for the release of five Sony Pictures films movies have now unveiled the budget for the forthcoming comedy The Interview, which stars James Franco and Seth Rogen, and centers on their attempt to assassinate North Korean leader Kim Jong-un

According to a Bloomberg report, Rogen was paid more than $8.4 million while his co-star Franco received $6.5 million. Britney Spears' ex Kevin Federline also received $5,000 for his cameo, and the film reportedly costs $44 million to make. 

Also on the budget list? A prop "table of weed, coke, pills and panties," which came in at $251. 

The Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg-directed drama, which follows two journalists (Rogen and Franco) as they attempt to kill the North Korea leader, seems to be at the center of a massive security breach at Sony.

Columbia Pictures

In addition to private salary information, several films leaked online following the hacking scandal, including the yet-to-be-released Annie (in theaters Dec. 19), Mr. Turner (in theaters Dec. 19), Still Alice (in theaters Jan. 16, 2015), and To Write Love on Her Arms (in theaters March 2015).

The films, which also include Fury starring Brad Pitt, are being illegally downloaded via copyright-infringing file-sharing hubs online.

"The theft of Sony Pictures Entertainment content is a criminal matter, and we are working closely with law enforcement to address it," a Sony rep told CNBC

On Nov. 24, hackers calling themselves Guardians of Peace took over computers at the studio, forcing it to shut down its email and other systems while threatening to release "secrets and top secrets" of Sony. 

Ben Gabbe/Getty Images

There is speculation that the leaks could be related to anger over The Interview, which North Korea has publicly condemned

Meanwhile, according to reports, North Korea has yet to deny its involvement in the computer breach, telling the media to "wait and see" if the country will retaliate if the movie is released as planned. 

Rogen and Franco have yet to comment on the latest security violation. 

The Interview is due to hit theaters on Christmas Day.