In the opening credits of television shows (maybe movies as well?) what decides, for example:
[ul]
[li]Starring [actor’s name][/li][li]… and [actor’s name] as “Character”[/li][li]with special appearance by: [actor’s name][/li][/ul]
Also, can you think of any examples other than the ones above?
In most cases, it’s negotiated by the actor’s agent.
“Special guest star x”
“Featuring x”
“Introducing x” (usually for a “new face” making a debut)
Virtually all credits are negotiated and in the contracts. On Cheers, for example, there was extensive negotiation as to both order and placement on the screen of the cast. Ted Danson was named first, but Shelly Long was placed higher on the screen. All negotiated.