The SAG-AFTRA strike began on July 14, 2023 with much discussion and debate as to why it was occurring. It saddens me that a compromise could not be reached with the twelve-day extension. I personally voted ‘yes’ (as part of the 98% majority), because my primary issues were self-taping, residuals, and respect. Although I haven’t heard much about the last one, I’d like to share my thoughts on it.
- Self-taping: During the pandemic, remote auditions became the main way to audition for roles. We are often expected to have a studio in our homes, know the lines perfectly, and possess great lighting. Normally it takes around three hours to prepare and record an audition tape when requested to do so for a particular role which can be cast across the entire U.S. or even worldwide. The slate can include one’s name, height, and location; however, not all slates require these details. A reader is normally needed to take part in the audition, which can require money be paid for their services as well as a director sometimes if applicable. Travel (parking fees and gas) may also have to be funded to attend an audition should it be necessary from time to time. There is at least one silver lining that comes with self-taping- I am able to create my own content and I believe independent productions will become increasingly common going forward.
Here’s a Los Angeles Times articles for further reading.
The issue I have with self-taping is that, when you go to a casting office, there isn’t an entire studio scene set up for you. All they have is a small table and chair in the room. Whereas, if you are at home, you are encouraged to set up a full scene before auditioning.
- Residuals: Additionally, there appears to be some confusion about how residuals work. Residuals occur when your image is used in a TV or Film. Every time the show airs, the production company/studio gets paid from advertisers, foreign distributors, etc. This statement has been reported on several times in the media but it is worth mentioning again. In an interview with CNBC Bob Iger commented, “We managed, as an industry, to negotiate a very good deal with the Directors Guild that reflects the value that the directors contribute to this great business. We wanted to do the same thing with the writers, and we’d like to do the same thing with the actors… There’s a level of expectation that they have, that is just not realistic. And they are adding to the set of the challenges that this business is already facing that is, quite frankly, very disruptive.” The comment that our request are unrealistic by a CEO who makes $27 Million a year? (See clip here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGqaENsJdRU)
I’m in the majority of SAG-AFTRA members who earn less than $26,000 annually, so I pay for my own insurance since I work part-time so that I can attend auditions. This is a decision I made, and I don’t place any blame on anyone. If I worked full-time, then I’d be limited in the number of auditions I could make/attend.
- Respect: I’m usually given a minimum of 24 hours to prepare for an audition. However, there have been requests with not much time to prepare. I’ve received request at 8pm that needed to be completed by 10am the following morning. This was completely unrealistic. My agents can ask for more time on my behalf when I requested it. These request are not always considered.
Being contacted at 8pm doesn’t give someone enough time to complete the audition if they have another job in the morning. Plus, people have lives outside of acting – families, commitments etc. that need to be taken into account. We actors need to be respected and not looked upon as just another face in a desperate herd of cattle.
My 27 years as a member of SAG-AFTRA has opened my eyes to how we all need respect within the entertainment industry and its supporting businesses. That’s why I support the Writer’s Guild and SAG-AFTRA strike, and why I encourage everyone else to do the same.
Thank you!