Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test is currently airing its latest season on Fox with many well-known stars. Due to that, fans have been wondering how much the stars actually get paid to endure such extreme conditions. From freezing water drills to sleep deprivation challenges, the celebrities who sign up for the show push both their bodies and minds to the limit.

Are they doing it for the experience, the exposure, or the paycheck? And just how much does this tough test of endurance really pay compared to other reality shows? Keep reading to find out what we know so far.

 

Special Forces: All About The Season 4 Cast

The Season 4 cast of Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test features some of reality TV’s most recognizable names, each with a different journey that led them to this high-intensity competition. Kody Brown, best known for Sister Wives, is part of the latest season, which has already sparked behind-the-scenes drama. One of the contestants, Brianna Chickenfry, revealed on Instagram that she and Kody “didn’t necessarily get along well”.

Meanwhile, The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Teresa Giudice and her daughter Gia Giudice, who appears on Next Gen NYC, both brought their family dynamic to the desert. The Valley’s Brittany Cartwright was the first to voluntarily withdraw from the show, while Teresa exited soon after. Despite the early eliminations, 11 recruits remain, including Kody, who continues to divide both fans and fellow contestants.

Special Forces: How Much Do The Featured Stars Earn From The Show?

When it comes to Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test, there’s no million-dollar prize waiting at the end, only bragging rights and the satisfaction of survival. According to industry sources, participants don’t receive residuals or post-airing royalties. However, they do get paid per episode, with rates varying depending on the celebrity’s fame and network history.

During a recent interview by The Hollywood Reporter, many Special Forces alums, including Vanderpump Rules’ Tom Sandoval and Tara Reid, are advocating for better pay and union protections. Tom expressed that reality personalities in general face grueling work schedules without benefits. Tara, who featured in Season 2, said that stars should receive royalties when networks re-air episodes.

While due to the lack of union standards, pay for Special Forces participants remains confidential, speculation suggests recruits earn between $30,000 and $100,000 per season, depending on their notoriety. High-profile names like Teresa Giudice or Jojo Siwa from past seasons are believed to have negotiated on the higher end.

Despite the tough conditions, stars continue to sign up, not necessarily for the money, but for the visibility. As Tom put it, “Reality people go through a lot worse than actors when their past is re-aired.” For some, Special Forces isn’t just a paycheck; it’s a public test of endurance and redemption. For the latest reality TV tea, keep coming back to TV Season & Spoilers.