Top Hollywood Actors Prepare for Potential Strike as Deadline Approaches
On Monday, representatives from top PR firms representing Hollywood actors held a conference call with officials from SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) to discuss protocols and best practices for promotion in the event of a strike. This comes as negotiations between the union and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers are nearing the Wednesday deadline for reaching a new contract.
The question of promotion has been looming as the summer movie season continues, and the Emmy nominations are set to be announced on Wednesday. The Cannes Film Festival proceeded smoothly, with writer-directors promoting their projects as directors, but a potential strike would have a significant impact on PR tours and FYC (For Your Consideration) efforts.
The repercussions of a strike are also being felt at the upcoming San Diego Comic-Con, where major studios like Marvel, Warner Bros. / DC Studios, Netflix, and Universal have decided to skip their regular Hall H promotional panels. With the absence of these big studios, the event’s usual fanfare may be dampened.
One of the biggest releases of the summer, “Barbie,” had its premiere on Sunday evening. However, director Greta Gerwig highlighted the absence of her co-writer and partner Noah Baumbach, who was unable to attend due to the ongoing Writers Guild strike. Gerwig emphasized the importance of writers in the Hollywood industry.
Despite multiple requests for comment, SAG-AFTRA remained silent on the matter. The news of the conference call was first reported by Variety.
As the Wednesday deadline approaches, tensions are running high in Hollywood. Industry professionals and fans alike are waiting anxiously to see if a new contract will be reached or if a strike will disrupt the entertainment landscape.