Ashton Kutcher will join “Two and a Half Men” this fall, replacing Charlie Sheen in TV’s top-rated comedy, CBS and Warner Bros. confirmed today, after the most highly publicized star meltdown and casting guessing game in years.
“What’s the square root of 6.25?” Kutcher asked in a Tweet late Thursday, in an apparent reference to the number in the show’s title – 2.5.
Making it official actor-producer and social media pioneer said in Friday’s statement, “I can’t wait to get to work with this ridiculously talented 2.5 team and I believe we can fill the stage with laughter that will echo in viewers’ homes,” said Kutcher. “I can’t replace Charlie Sheen but I’m going to work my ass off to entertain the hell out of people!”
Industry trade publications reported a possible $1 million per episode deal for Kutcher. Sheen was the highest paid actor in television at $2 million per episode, including his share in the rerun profits.
The cast change is expected to bring harmony to a badly divided set. More diplomatically, Warner Bros. chief Peter Roth said, “Ashton Kutcher brings a new and distinctive comedic flavor to “Two and a Half Men.””
