After an unforgettable 10-year run, the beloved comedy-drama television series Shameless bid farewell in April 2021, etching a profound memory in viewers’ hearts. Shameless made its cast members millionaires, some earning over $350,000 per episode.
Originating from a British TV show, Shameless, which debuted on Showtime in January 2011, revolved around the Gallagher family’s unorthodox dynamics as they navigated through chaos, addiction, and financial struggles.
The Gallagher family in the American comedy-drama show Shameless is made up of Frank (William H. Macy), Fiona (Emmy Rossum), Lip (Jeremy Allen White), Ian (Cameron Monaghan), Debbie (Emma Kenney), Carl (Ethan Cutkosky), and Liam (Brenden Gleeson) (Credit: Showtime)
With 11 seasons under its belt, set in the bustling city of Chicago, Shameless was cherished for its authenticity, dark humor, and compelling characters, earning an impressive 15 Emmy nominations and claiming victory in four categories.
Let’s delve into the show’s stellar and hilarious cast and discover what they are up to today, celebrating the enduring legacy of this iconic series and the remarkable actors who brought them to life on screen.
William H. Macy as Frank Gallagher – $45 Million Net Worth
In Shameless, there’s no character quite like Frank Gallagher, portrayed by William H. Macy.
Frank is the epitome of shamelessness, an alcoholic and self-serving father who often puts his desires before the well-being of his children, making him a divisive and complex figure.
William H. Macy plays Frank Gallagher, the patriarch of the Gallagher family, in the long-running Showtime series Shameless (Credit: Showtime)
Despite his obnoxious behavior, William’s character offered a darkly comedic commentary on societal issues and the destructive consequences of addiction.
Before taking on the iconic role of Frank Gallagher, the American actor already had an impressive career. In 1997, he received an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Fargo.
He showcased his commitment to the craft with notable performances in Boogie Nights and Pleasantville.
William H. Macy with wife Felicity Huffman at the A New Way of Life 2022 Gala in Los Angeles, California on December 4, 2022 (Credit: FayesVision / Startraksphoto / Cover Images)
In the years following the premiere of Shameless, William continued to shine in various films and TV shows, including The Sessions, Cake, Room, The Dropout, The Conners, and Blood Father. He also directed the film The Layover in 2017.
While his professional achievements are commendable, with a jaw-dropping net worth of $45 million, William’s personal life also made headlines, with his marriage to Felicity Huffman in 1997 and their shared journey as parents to two daughters, Sophia and Georgia.
In 2019, the couple faced challenges during the college admissions scandal, but William wasn’t charged, while Felicity served a short prison sentence and completed community service.
William H. Macy joined the cast of Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, which premiered on May 10, 2024. He plays Trevathan, an opportunistic human who advises the ruling ape, Proximus Caesar.
Emmy Rossum as Fiona Gallagher – $12 Million Net Worth
Emmy Rossum’s portrayal of Fiona Gallagher left a lasting impact on fans as she embodied the determined and fierce eldest sister of the Gallagher children.
Throughout the series, Fiona transforms from selflessly caring for others to prioritizing her well-being.
Season 1 promo shot of Emmy Rossum as Fiona Gallagher in the American comedy-drama show Shameless (Credit: Showtime)
After an impressive nine seasons on the show, the Mystic River actress decided to bid Shameless farewell and explore new career opportunities.
Although fans had hoped for Fiona’s return in the show’s final season, unforeseen challenges such as COVID-19 restrictions and scheduling conflicts prevented Emmy from making a cameo appearance.
Emmy Rossum making a stunning appearance in a blue Givenchy ruched dress at the screening of The Crowded Room in New York City on June 1, 2023 (Credit: Janet Mayer / Startraksphoto)
Since departing from Shameless in 2018, Emmy has ventured into exciting projects, gracing the screens in movies such as A Futile and Stupid Gesture and Cold Pursuit. She also took on the titular role in the Peacock limited series Angelyne in 2022.
Beyond her acting endeavors, The Day After Tomorrow star has also delved into directing, helming episodes of Modern Love and Animal Kingdom, substantially impacting her impressive net worth of $12 million.
In her personal life, Emmy welcomed a daughter in May 2021 with her husband, Sam Esmail, whom she married in 2017. She also revealed that the couple quietly welcomed a son in April 2023, adding to their growing family.
Jeremy Allen White as Phillip “Lip” Gallagher – $8 Million Net Worth
Jeremy Allen White is the talented actor behind the beloved character Lip Gallagher, who evolved from a young rebel to a responsible dad.
Jeremy Allen White plays Phillip “Lip” Gallagher, the eldest son of the Gallagher family, in the long-running Showtime series Shameless (Credit: Showtime)
Landing the role fresh out of high school, the American actor defied expectations, immersing himself in his character with passion and dedication. His performance resonated with audiences as he embraced Lip’s complexities and growth, making his character a fan favorite.
Beyond Shameless, Jeremy Allen White’s acting career flourished, resulting in a remarkable net worth of $8 million. He appeared in movies like The Time Being in 2012, Bad Turn Worse in 2013, The Rental in 2020, and The Birthday Cake in 2021.
Jeremy Allen White attending the premiere of The Bear in Los Angeles, California, on June 20, 2022 (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images / INSTA)
Along with several shorts, Jeremy boasts impressive acting credits, including Law & Order, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Homecoming, and the Hulu series The Bear.
Off-screen, Jeremy’s personal life also saw significant milestones. In October 2019, he tied the knot with actress Addison Timlin, and they welcomed their first daughter in 2018. The couple’s joy expanded in December 2020 when they were blessed with their second daughter.
In May 2023, Addison filed for divorce from Jeremy after over three years of marriage.
Cameron Monaghan as Ian Gallagher – $5 Million Net Worth
Cameron Monaghan played Ian Gallagher in Shameless. He underwent a transformative journey, evolving from dropping out of high school to enlisting in the military and marrying his childhood friend Mickey Milkovich.
Season 1 promo shot of Cameron Monaghan as Ian Gallagher in the American comedy-drama show Shameless (Credit: Showtime)
Throughout his time on the series, the American actor-model also explored other projects, taking a brief four-month hiatus before returning to continue Ian’s story arc.
Beyond Shameless, Cameron Monaghan showcased his talent in various endeavors, appearing in shorts and TV shows like Malcolm in the Middle, Corey and Lucas for the Win, NCIS, Mercy Street, and Gotham.
Cameron Monaghan making an appearance at the 31st Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party in Los Angeles, California on March 13, 2023 (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images)
In 2022, he starred alongside his fictional TV sister, Emma Kenney, in the animated film My Love Affair with Marriage, lending his voice to the character Sergei.
Cameron has various acting credits, including Vampire Academy, The Giver, Amityville: The Awakening, The Year of Spectacular Men, Anthem of a Teenage Prophet, and Paradise Highway, all of which have contributed to his impressive net worth of $5 million.
Emma Kenney as Debbie Gallagher – $4 Million Net Worth
From her early days as Debbie Gallagher in the pilot episode of Shameless, Emma Kenney’s journey on the show was nothing short of remarkable.
Throughout the series, fans witnessed Debbie evolve from a scrappy little sister to a character like Frank.
Emma Kenney plays Debbie Gallagher, the middle child of the Gallagher family in the long-running Showtime series Shameless (Credit: Showtime)
Cast at just ten years old, the actress grew up before our eyes during her 11-year run on Shameless, finally wrapping up her role at 21. Her role in the series boosted her wealth, currently at $4 million.
Beyond Shameless, Emma Kenney played Harris Conner-Healy in The Conners, the Roseanne reboot, from 2018 to 2021.
Emma Kenney attending the 31st Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party in Los Angeles, California on March 13, 2023 (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images)
Additionally, in 2022, Emma lent her voice to the animated film My Love Affair with Marriage. She also appeared in movies such as Robert the Bruce, Back to Lyla, Murder at Emigrant Gulch, and Murder at Yellowstone City.
Noel Fisher as Mickey Milkovich – $3 Million Net Worth
Noel Fisher’s portrayal of Mickey Milkovich in Shameless was a journey that surprised and delighted viewers.
Initially known as the neighborhood’s brutal bully, Mickey’s relationship with Ian Gallagher took an unexpected turn when they fell in love, leading to one of the show’s most remarkable plot twists.
Noel Fisher plays Mickey Milkovich, a violent and erratic member of the Milkovich family, who are neighbors of the Gallaghers (Credit: Showtime)
No stranger to the television world, the Canadian actor showcased his talent in various television shows such as X-Men: Evolution, The Riches, The Red Line, and The Conners. He continued to thrive in his acting career, appearing in Justice League Action, Castle Rock, and Fear the Walking Dead.
Additionally, Noel lent his motion capture and voice talents to Michelangelo in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in 2014 and its 2016 sequel. He also starred in the film Capone in 2020, adding to his remarkable wealth, which currently stands at $3 million.
Noel Fisher attending the Stand Up for Heroes 11th Annual Event in New York City on November 6, 2017 (Credit: Media Punch / INSTARimages)
In 2017, Noel Fisher married Layla Alizada, embarking on a new journey in his personal life.
Steve Howey as Kevin Ball – $2 Million Net Worth
Steve Howey played the role of Kevin Ball, a good-natured friend of the Gallagher family and bartender at Frank’s favorite neighborhood bar.
Season 1 promo shot of Steve Howey as Kevin Ball in the American comedy-drama show Shameless (Credit: Showtime)
Kevin had the privilege of being in a relationship with Shanola Hampton’s character, which motivated Steve to look the part of the on-screen couple.
Before joining Shameless, he portrayed Van Montgomery on Reba from 2001 to 2007. While filming the series, he appeared in popular television shows like New Girl, Sons of Anarchy, Workaholics, Dead to Me, and Law & Order: SVU. He also starred in Stuber, Unleashed, and In Your Eyes.
Steve Howey at the premiere of John Wick: Chapter 4 in Los Angeles, California on March 21, 2023 (Credit: Abaca Press / INSTARimages)
Following the conclusion of the hit show, the versatile actor continued to shine in the entertainment industry, garnering an impressive net worth of $2 million.
He secured the lead role in the CBS reboot True Lies, based on the 1994 highly acclaimed movie starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jamie Lee Curtis.
Steve Howey was married to Sarah Shahi from 2009 to 2021. They have three children: a son, William, and twins, Violet and Knox.
Christian Isaiah as Liam Gallagher – $1.5 Million Net Worth
Christian Isaiah’s portrayal of Liam, the youngest member of the Gallagher family, brought a new dimension to the character.
While Liam’s early storylines lacked a personal arc, everything changed when Christian, replacing the previous actors, took on the role during season 8.
Christian Isaiah plays Liam Gallagher, the youngest child of the Gallagher family (Credit: Showtime)
Various twins have portrayed Liam, including Brenden and Brandon Sims since season 3 and Blake and Brennan Johnson as babies in season 1.
However, Christian’s portrayal allowed the audience to witness Liam’s growth. He formed a bond with his dad, Frank, and excelled in school while navigating the complexities of remaining close to his family.
Christian Isaiah attending the Brooks Brothers Annual Celebration to Benefit St. Jude in West Hollywood, California on December 8, 2019 (Credit: Sara De Boer / Startraksphoto)
In addition to Shameless, Christian Isaiah’s talent has been showcased in various projects, including the TV series Married in 2014, which resulted in an astounding wealth of $1.5 million.
The talented actor played a young Tupac Shakur in the series Unsolved: The Murders of Tupac and the Notorious B.I.G. in 2018. He also appeared as Phil Saunders on the podcast series Borrasca and as young Andre in the film 21 Bridges.
Ethan Cutkosky as Carl Gallagher – $1 Million Net Worth
At age 10, Ethan Cutkosky was cast as Carl Gallagher in Shameless and grew up alongside his character.
The transformation from kid to adult was evident both on and off-screen, and Shameless provided the perfect platform for Ethan to showcase his acting prowess.
Emma Kenney and Ethan Cutkosky play Debbie and Carl Gallagher, the middle and youngest children of the Gallagher family in the long-running Showtime series Shameless (Credit: Showtime)
Before Shameless, the actor-musician had some experience in print ads, commercials, and a small role in the 2007 movie Fred Claus. However, his role as the delinquent but caring Carl Gallagher catapulted him into the spotlight and boosted his net worth to $1 million.
After the show, Ethan ventured into music, showcasing his talent in the music video for Vic Mensa’s OMG in 2017 and releasing a single titled Erase Me in July 2021.
Ethan Cutkosky attending the world premiere of Fear at Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles, California on January 21, 2023 (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images)
His acting journey continued with roles in the film Alex/October in 2022, and he appeared as young Tommy Egan in the Starz crime drama television series Power.
He also made minor roles in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and The Conners and will star in the upcoming film Going Places.
Shanola Hampton as Veronica Fisher – $1 Million Net Worth
Shanola Hampton portrayed Veronica Fisher, fondly known as V, a bold and daring character who started from Fiona Gallagher’s neighbor and friend to becoming a leading lady in the series as Kevin’s wife.
Emmy Rossum as Fiona Gallagher and Shanola Hampton as Veronica Fisher in the American comedy-drama show Shameless (Credit: Showtime)
Before her noteworthy role in Shameless, the American actress had recurring appearances in television shows like Related in 2005 and Miami Medical in 2010.
Her acting journey continued to prosper as she took on roles in Criminal Minds, Stalker, and Noches con Platanito while gracing the screens of fans worldwide.
Shanola Hampton attending the A New Way of Life 2022 Gala in Los Angeles, California, on December 4, 2022 (Credit: FayesVision / Startraksphoto / Cover Images)
Shanola was cast in the NBC comedy pilot Night School, based on the 2018 movie starring Tiffany Haddish and Kevin Hart. Unfortunately, the pilot was canceled before filming. In 2021, she appeared in the erotic thriller film Deadly Illusions.
Having accumulated an estimated net worth of $1 million, Shanola’s personal life blossomed as she found love with producer Daren Dukes, marrying him in 2000. The couple shares the joys of parenthood with a daughter named Cai and a son named Daren.