Viola Davis Steps Away from Producing “G20” in Support of Hollywood Strikes
Viola Davis, renowned actress and producer, has made the decision to step away from her upcoming project, “G20,” in solidarity with the ongoing strikes in Hollywood. Davis announced her decision in a statement, marking a significant move for A-list talent as negotiations between the actors’ guild (SAG-AFTRA) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) continue.
“Like over 100 other independent films, ‘G20′ had received an interim agreement from SAG-AFTRA, allowing production to continue during the actors’ strike,” Davis stated in her announcement. “However, I do not feel it would be appropriate for this production to move forward during the strike. I appreciate that the producers on the project agree with this decision. JuVee Productions and I stand in solidarity with actors, SAG/AFTRA, and the WGA.”
The film, which is an action thriller, is affiliated with Amazon Prime Video, who is set to distribute the project. Despite this, “G20” received a waiver as an MRC production, adding to the ongoing debate surrounding interim waivers since the start of the SAG-AFTRA strike two weeks ago.
Davis’ decision comes shortly after actor Sarah Silverman criticized Hollywood stars for continuing to work on indie projects amidst the strike. Silverman referred to it as “scabbing” and called for all movie stars to join the strike, highlighting the benefits they receive from their union.
Despite the backlash, other indie projects, such as Apple TV+’s “Tehran” and A24’s “Mother Mary” and “I Dream of Unicorns,” have received waivers from SAG-AFTRA to continue filming. Notable actors like Glenn Close, Anne Hathaway, and Dakota Fanning are also working under waivers.
The news of Viola Davis’ decision to pause work on “G20” was first reported by Deadline. As the strike and negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP continue, it remains to be seen how other A-list talent will navigate their involvement in ongoing projects.