The Global Media Site for Entertainment.
Menu
Today, we’re reaching out as fellow members of this vibrant community. As proud members of SAG-AFTRA ourselves, we understand the challenges and uncertainties you face, especially in light of this strike. While this strike may not have come as a surprise considering the larger shifts in our industry, it is still a scary moment for all of us.
Beyond the immediate concerns of halted productions and unpaid bills, what makes this moment particularly frightening is the realization that being a working actor has become increasingly more difficult and unsustainable. The emergence of streaming platforms, the profound influence of big tech on monetization, and the impact of a global pandemic have all dramatically transformed our business. It is our hope that the coming months will yield a fair and equitable resolution that surpasses the current unacceptable state of affairs.
However, let’s be clear: the road ahead is likely to be even more challenging. We won’t be able to revert to the “old ways” of doing things of 10 years ago. The landscape has changed too much. As SAG’s Vice President, Ben Whitehair, aptly put it, “There are things being written all over about the squeeze of the middle class in America. I don’t think we are immune from the larger economic models of unfettered capitalism.” Sadly, it seems that the working actor, as part of the middle class, is being gradually squeezed out in our industry. We find ourselves competing with celebrities for TV roles as cast sizes are shrinking and Hollywood’s hold on entertainment is diminishing.
Nonetheless, amidst this disruption, there lies opportunity. Mr. Whitehair also said, “Actors and performers are more able to take their careers into their own hands. That comes with its challenges; I’m not saying that this is not a challenging career. However, there are more opportunities. The gatekeeper dynamic is very different. I can make my own content. If no one’s willing to tell my story, I can go tell it at a level that is professional. The barriers to entry are lower. I don’t need $10 million to tell my story.”
We encourage you to rally behind this cause and give it your all. But remember, there is another form of disruption that can empower you: the ability to create beyond the confines of the industry. Become your own advocate, seize the opportunity to generate your own avenues for success, even if it means venturing outside this flawed, unjust system.
We stand firmly by your side during these challenging times. That’s why we are thrilled to announce the launch of The Picket Line Post, a daily roundup of both significant and subtle news surrounding the strike. The Post serves as our dedicated channel to keep our base informed about the latest developments and their implications moving forward. It will be released every weekday morning, from Monday to Friday. Additionally, we will be sharing daily content on our Instagram page, featuring useful tips and strategies to consider during this critical period.
SIGN UP FOR THE PICKET LINE POST, OUR DAILY ROUNDUP OF STRIKE NEWS.
We believe in your talent, your resilience, and your capacity to redefine what it means to be an actor. Together, let’s navigate this evolving landscape, fight for what’s fair, and discover new paths that lead to fulfillment and success.
We’ll see you on the picket line,
The Artist’s Strategy Team
Why the Best Self-Producers Live to Multi Task
Stop Complaining About Neo Babies and Start Acting Like One
Artist's Strategy offers artists the opportunity to strategize and create tactical next steps towards a successful, fulfilling career. Based on tested business principles, Artist's Strategy helps you design a tangible path towards a sustainable future. Incorporating and using the basic tenets of a healthy business, we will help you set a one, three or five-year-plan that will work for you and keep you on track to seeing real results. With Artist's Strategy, you will work alongside founder Joshua Morgan to identify the strengths and opportunities of your business and learn more about how to stabilize and grow. How long and how frequently you work with Artist's Strategy depends on your individual needs and resources. Contact us to discuss a plan that could work for you.
Read Full Profile
© 2021 TheatreArtLife. All rights reserved.
Thank you so much for reading, but you have now reached your free article limit for this month.
Our contributors are currently writing more articles for you to enjoy.
To keep reading, all you have to do is become a subscriber and then you can read unlimited articles anytime.
Your investment will help us continue to ignite connections across the globe in live entertainment and build this community for industry professionals.
