Mo’Nique accuses Netflix of ‘colour bias’ after earning less than Amy Schumer

Comedian and actress Mo’Nique has hit out at Netflix after earning less than comedians Amy Schumer and Chris Rock.

The 50-year-old actress called on her social media followers to "boycott Netflix for gender bias and colour bias", before revealing that she was offered $500,000 by the streaming service for a comedy special, considerably less than the $13 million Amy Schumer was said to be paid for her forthcoming series, and the $20 million that Chris Rock and David Chappelle were reportedly paid for their shows. 

Mo’Nique explains in the video that despite Netflix acknowledging she was a "legend" like Rock and Chappelle, the value they believed she would bring to the service was $500,000. When she asked why Schumer was being paid so much more, Mo’Nique claims Netflix said her fee was based on the films she has made and her ability to sell out Madison Square Garden, despite reportedly refusing to base Mo’Nique's salary on her experience.

Mo’Nique made her name while performing as Nicole "Nikki" Parker in Noughties US sitcom The Parkers, but received an Academy Award nomination in 2009 for playing an abusive mother in Precious. She has since earned further accolades for playing dramatic roles, including Ma Rainey in the HBO biopic of Bessie Smith.

The actress made a further post to Instagram after fellow comedian Wanda Sykes claimed on Twitter that she was offered $250,000 to make a comedy special.

Netflix responded saying: “Netflix does not comment on contract negotiations.”

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