The Gallagher Family from Shameless is known for its chaos, but behind the scenes, tensions ran high. Emmy Rossum left the show due to alleged pay disparities, feeling she deserved more than her co-star, William H. Macy, despite having more screen time. She expressed her desire for fair compensation, which Macy supported. After Rossum’s exit, actress Emma Kenney noted the set became "more positive," claiming there was competition and anxiety while working with Rossum. Rossum reportedly felt disappointed by Kenney’s comments, as they contradicted her fond memories of their working relationship.
The Gallagher Family is infamous for their chaotic antics on Shameless. However, reports indicate that the drama behind the scenes could rival the on-screen turmoil of the dysfunctional South Side family.
Emmy Rossum left the series several seasons prior to its conclusion, intriguing fans of the Showtime hit who questioned her motive for departure. It was reported then that she aimed to pursue other creative ventures, but sources suggest multiple underlying issues contributed to her sudden exit.
What truly transpired behind the scenes on the Shameless set that created such tension among cast members?
Emmy Rossum Allegedly Departed Due to Unfair Compensation
Reports suggest that Emmy Rossum chose to leave her role as Fiona Gallagher due to contract disputes. Although she was paid the same salary as her on-screen father, portrayed by William H. Macy, it turned out she earned significantly less despite having more screen time.
Initially, she accepted Macy’s higher pay, recognizing his established fame in the industry at the show’s outset, but over time, Rossum felt she warranted a greater salary. She expressed to Vulture in 2017, “The leadership started to feel somewhat shared … I adored the show, cared for everyone involved, and wanted to continue, but I needed it to feel right.”
Fortunately, Macy backed his co-star’s choice, stating, “It’s unacceptable they would pay a woman less for the same role. It’s show business’s job to hire us as cheaply as possible – and our job to refuse.”
Shameless Alum Emma Kenney Claimed the Set Became More ‘Positive’ After Emmy Rossum Departed
In a revealing interview, Shameless star Emma Kenney shared during her appearance on the Call Her Daddy Podcast that working with Emmy Rossum could be challenging. Kenney sensed an odd competition between them, despite their age gap.
Reflecting on Rossum’s exit, Kenney stated, “It was strange initially, for sure, but the atmosphere became a bit more positive. I won’t lie.”
She added that working alongside Rossum could be stressful, mentioning, “I remember feeling anxious about being on set some days … if she was having a tough day, it affected everyone.”
Emmy Rossum Reportedly ‘Disappointed’ by Emma Kenney’s Podcast Revelations
As reported by E! News, sources indicate that Rossum was “disappointed” with Emma Kenney’s remarks on the Call Her Daddy Podcast, as she remembers their time on set more positively.
The source noted, “This is not how Emmy recalls their working relationship and friendship. She’s genuinely surprised and let down because it contrasts with her fond memories from the set, especially regarding Emma.”
What are your thoughts on what truly transpired behind the scenes on Shameless? Share your opinions in the comments below.
Simone Torn is a pop culture writer with 10 years of experience. She has written for several entertainment magazines such as Nicki Swift, Showbiz Cheat Sheet, Dexerto, and more.