The Global Impact: SAG-AFTRA Strike and New Zealand Actors

The Global Impact: SAG-AFTRA Strike and New Zealand Actors

The lights have dimmed on many Hollywood sets as actors who are members of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) take a stand in their ongoing strike. Negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) have broken down, leading to a refusal to work for studios and streaming companies involved in the dispute. The impact is far-reaching, extending beyond Hollywood's borders, to reaching us here in Aotearoa. The SAG-AFTRA strike is resonating with our local actors and highlighting the importance of solidarity in shaping the future of the entertainment industry worldwide.

Standing in Solidarity: Equity New Zealand's Support

As the SAG-AFTRA strike grips the industry, actors across the globe are standing in solidarity. Equity New Zealand, the professional association representing actors and performers in Aotearoa, has sent a message of support to their SAG-AFTRA counterparts. The issues at the core of the strike have implications that extend beyond national boundaries, affecting all actors worldwide. The collective strength of unified actors sets a standard that the rest of the world can aspire to, advocating for fair rights and working conditions.

Impact on New Zealand Actors.

Though Equity New Zealand members are not on strike themselves, the ripples of the SAG-AFTRA strike are felt in the land of the Kiwis. The strike is causing some international productions to stall as lead international actors refuse to work, resulting in delays and rescheduling until the strike reaches its resolution. For New Zealand actors, two key scenarios come into play:

SAG-AFTRA Members in New Zealand: Actors in New Zealand who are also members of SAG-AFTRA are being asked to join their fellow union members and refrain from providing services to studios and streaming companies involved in the strike. This solidarity aims to amplify the impact of the strike, strengthening the actors' stance and drawing attention to their demands.

Aspiring SAG-AFTRA Members: For New Zealand actors aspiring to become SAG-AFTRA members, the strike has implications for their career pursuits. To support their fellow actors and advocate for equitable rights, they are encouraged to refuse any work or services that involve the studios and streamers in question. This includes wardrobe fittings, rehearsals, publicity events, auditions (including self-tapes), and actual filming work.

Nurturing a Global Industry.

The entertainment industry is an interconnected web of talent and creativity, transcending borders and cultures. The actions taken by SAG-AFTRA members and the response from actors worldwide, including those in New Zealand, reflect the shared pursuit of fairness and respect for actors' rights. By supporting one another, we foster an environment where creativity can thrive without compromising the well-being of the artists who bring stories to life.

Conclusion:

As the SAG-AFTRA strike continues to make headlines and resonate across the global entertainment landscape, actors in Aotearoa/New Zealand are not mere bystanders. The impact of the strike reaches their shores, affecting productions and aspiring actors alike. Equity New Zealand's message of solidarity highlights the importance of collective action in shaping the industry's future. Together, we stand for fair rights, inclusivity, and respect for all actors, fostering an industry that nurtures creativity and empowers artists to tell captivating stories without compromise. Let us join hands and support one another on this journey towards a brighter, more equitable future for actors worldwide.

Photo by Tim Wildsmith on Unsplash