EXACTLY. They also really have little job security. Plus, when they aren't working any longer, they're sort of "has-beens" and it's hard to find a job for them. Hollywood is a great place when you're working but if you're not, nobody wants to know you. It's not like you've got lifelong friends there; you've only got friends if you can keep up with the lifestyle. If you can't, you're forgotten. Even major producers have trouble and imagine if you will, having to live the lifestyle that they do (b/c NOBODY there wants to deal with a "loser") and it's a huge network; you have to know people to get anywhere there...it's the iconic town where "image is EVERYTHING". I have friends (writers and editors) who've won Oscars for their work, but still have a tough time finding jobs 90% of the time. They're so talented, and it makes me feel badly that they have to struggle so, b/c they dont' get any kickback from revenues on things they've done in the past. Considering the amount of joy that so many of these shows bring into our lives, the entertainment industry is incredibly underrated. Entertainment is something that enriches our lives and stimulates the imagination.
I literally saved people's lives for a living, but I don't consider my job any more integral to the quality of life on earth than the people who make film or are involved most aspects of entertainment.

Yes--the weekly money sounds great but if they only work 10 -20 weeks--it's not much of a living wage.