More Than 300 Actors Are Joining Writers In Their Battle For Justice
Hollywood faces yet another challenge for the entertainment industry.
Just when everyone had gotten used to the idea that their favorite movies, TV shows, and other productions, including the work of the writers, might either go on hiatus for an unknown period of time or suffer a significant drop in quality, the industry professionals gathered to shock the public with the news of another possible strike.
This time, it could be a strike by the actors as their contract with the studios expires and they unite to demand much better working conditions for a new contract.
As the actors' union SAG-AFTRA pointed out earlier this month, the potential strike has been approved by 90% of the union's members.
The latest update from union president Fran Drescher, who described the negotiations as "productive," may sound hopeful to outsiders, but left many members of the union dissatisfied.
The actors feel the need to express that they don't want to compromise on the crucial points of their working environment demands, and they are ready to fight for them if necessary.
According to Rolling Stone, more than 300 actors, including such A-listers as Meryl Streep and Jennifer Lawrence, have signed a letter outlining the issues that seem to be most important to performers right now.
These include more practical things like minimum pay, health care, and pensions, as well as more nuanced issues like the use of self-tapes in the audition process.
Another thing that was mentioned by actors, as well as the WGA writers, is the use of AI tools in the industry and compensation for training AI on actors' work.
"We want you to know that we would rather go on strike than compromise on these fundamental points, and we believe that, if we settle for a less than transformative deal, the future of our union and our craft will be undermined, and SAG-AFTRA will enter the next negotiation with drastically reduced leverage," the letter stated.
Whether or not the actors will have to join the writers in their strike, we will have to find out and see for ourselves.
The commitment to justice is undeniable, so the industry may be facing another major challenge with no actors available to continue working on their projects.
Source: Rolling Stone