August 8, 2012 3:16 PM

TV Guide unveils television's highest-paid stars

By
Lauren Moraski

Ashton Kutcher and Jon Cryer in a scene from "Two and a Half Men."

/ CBS
(CBS News) Who gets paid what in the TV business?

TV Guide just unveiled its annual salary survey based on conversations with agents, network executives and studio heads.

Pictures: Ashton Kutcher

"Two and a Half Men" star Ashton Kutcher tops the comedy charts this year, raking in $700,000 an episode. Actor Mark Harmon, star of CBS' "NCIS," gets top dollar in the drama series category with $500,000 per episode.

When it comes to reality TV, Mariah Carey leads the tally. The new "American Idol" judge will earn $17 million for the season.

Out of TV's late night hosts, David Letterman makes the most, with an estimated $28 million per year, according to TV Guide, followed by Jay Leno with $25 million and Jon Stewart with $16 million.

Judge Judy gets a whopping $45 million a year for her syndicated afternoon court TV series, reports TV Guide.

Other stars leading the financial charge in comedy include Ellen Pompeo with $350,000 for each "Grey's Anatomy" episode and Kevin Bacon of "The Following" with $175,000 per episode.

TV Guide, 2012

/ TV Guide