‘No Contracts, No Peace’: Actors Stage Demonstration in New York
In a historic move, actors in New York City staged a demonstration yesterday to protest the lack of fair contracts in the entertainment industry. The demonstration, organized by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), aimed to bring attention to the ongoing strikes in Hollywood and demand better working conditions for actors.
The premiere of Disney’s highly anticipated film, Haunted Mansion, became the first major Hollywood event to go ahead without its actors due to the industry strikes. Stars like Tiffany Haddish, LaKeith Stanfield, and Jamie Lee Curtis were initially scheduled to walk the red carpet, but the studio had to rely on performers dressed as iconic Disney characters instead.
The strikes were initiated after negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) broke down. Both actors and writers are demanding increased base pay and residuals in the streaming TV era, as well as protections against their work being replaced by artificial intelligence.
Celebrities like George Clooney and Alec Baldwin have voiced their support for the strike, expressing solidarity with the actors’ demands. Jason Sudeikis and Susan Sarandon have also been seen on the picket lines, showing their commitment to the cause.
The strike has had a significant impact on the entertainment industry. TV and movie production came to a halt immediately, marking the first dual work stoppage by both actors and writers in 63 years. Broadway shows remain unaffected for now, as the strike primarily involves screen actors.
As the strike continues, there are growing concerns about its impact on upcoming events and awards ceremonies. SAG-AFTRA has barred its members from attending Comic-Con and participating in promotional events, including awards shows like the Emmys. The future of the awards ceremony remains uncertain, as a final decision is expected to be made by the end of July.
The actors’ strike has also sparked a larger conversation about the treatment of creatives in the industry. Many actors have shared their stories of low income and the lack of profit-sharing from successful shows and films, even in the era of streaming. Matilda child star Mara Wilson and actor John Cusack both highlighted the need for fair compensation and healthcare benefits for actors.
As the strike continues to gain momentum, it remains to be seen how studios will respond to the actors’ demands. The demonstration in New York City is just the beginning of what could be a long and contentious battle for fair contracts in the entertainment industry.