Sebastian Stan Reveals $65K Residuals from ‘Hot Tub Time Machine’ Saved Him Before Marvel Breakthrough.

From Near Bankruptcy to Hollywood Stardom: How a Single Paycheck Changed Everything

Sebastian Stan, renowned for his role as Bucky Barnes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, recently shared a pivotal moment from his early career that nearly led him to bankruptcy. In an interview, Stan revealed that a $65,000 residual check from his supporting role in the 2010 film Hot Tub Time Machine was a financial lifeline during a challenging period.

“I was about to call you to tell you that you’re bankrupt. And then you just got a residual check in the mail for this movie Hot Tub Time Machine,” Stan recalled his accountant’s words.

At the time, Stan was struggling financially, with limited acting opportunities. The unexpected residuals provided the necessary funds to sustain him until he landed his breakout role as Bucky Barnes in Captain America: The First Avenger (2011), marking the beginning of his successful journey in the Marvel franchise.

Beyond his Marvel success, Stan has showcased his versatility in various roles, earning critical acclaim. In 2024, he won a Golden Globe for his performance in A Different Man and received an Oscar nomination for portraying Donald Trump in The Apprentice.

Stan’s story underscores the unpredictable financial challenges actors face and the importance of every role, big or small, in shaping their careers.