Athletes, singers, actors, and people who work regular nine to five’s have a common desire to be paid what they’re worth. In the sports and entertainment industry financial security is key due to the fact it is unknown how long your career will last. Most would be inclined to accept immediate compensation. In 1994 a particular singer/actor was faced with the dilemma of immediate rewards versus planning for the future.
Jason Weaver was introduced to the mainstream in 1992 when he portrayed a young Michael Jackson in the miniseries “The Jacksons: An American Dream”. Weaver was very impressive as he provided the vocals for his role. He would go on to star in the sitcoms “Thea,” and “The Smart Guy.” On the big screen, Weaver landed a role in the 2002 film “Drumline,” with Nick Cannon. In 2006 he teamed up with rapper T.I. in the film “ATL.” Weaver paired up with another rapper/actor in 2010 as he starred alongside Shad Moss (Bow Wow), in the 2010 movie “Lottery Ticket.” Present-day he remains active in the entertainment industry.
Weaver’s music career took flight in 1995. His biggest hit was a 2003 feature with rapper Chingy titled “One Call Away” The song peaked at number two on the Billboard Top 100. Weaver has experienced success as both an actor and a singer. His most critical career decision came in 1994 when he signed on to provide the singing voice for young Simba in the Walt Disney animation The Lion King.Â
Disney’s initial offer was to the tune of 2 million dollars. It was a one-time payment with no royalties attached. Jason Weaver and his manager who is also his mother, were very excited. Up to that point, Weaver’s biggest payday came from his portrayal of young Michael Jackson. He earned $80,000 for playing the preteen King of Pop. The difference in the numbers was a huge financial progression. After the initial wave of emotions passed, Weaver’s mother came up with the idea to turn down the first offer and renegotiate for a royalty stake. She knew the playing field in reference to Disney’s box office success, and their tendency to re-release their animations. Weaver and his mother/manager decided to make a discipline business decision and play the long game. They turned down the 2 million dollar offer and accepted an offer which included a lump sum of $100,000 with royalties included. The strategy equated to Weaver giving 1.9 million dollars back to Disney in exchange for royalties. At first glance, it doesn’t seem like a logical decision due to the fact many of us are accustomed to the here and now.
The move paid off again and again as Weaver has received royalties from Disney the past couple of decades. “It’s the gift that keeps on giving.”Jason Weaver makes a conscious effort to always credit his mother for making the pivotal decision. “I make sure I give my mom her just do props because if she wouldn’t have done that, it would have been the biggest mistake of my career.”
Immediate gratification versus playing the long game is a complicated and very difficult decision to make. Jason Weaver and his mother scored an overwhelming victory with the decision to play the long game. The decision afforded them to say no to a lump sum payment, and say yes to generational wealth.
