Hollywood’s Future With Actor Strikes
Striking Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Screen Actors Guild (SAG) members walk the picket line during their strike in New York City, U.S., July 14, 2023. REUTERS/Brendan Mcdermid
In the event of strikes or other disruptions in Hollywood, compensation for actors can vary depending on the specific circumstances, agreements between unions and production companies, and the nature of the work affected.
Here are some possible ways Hollywood might compensate actors during strikes:
Strike Pay: Some unions, such as the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), may provide strike pay to members who participate in strikes. This financial support helps offset lost income during the strike period.
Negotiated Agreements: During negotiations between unions and producers, agreements may be reached regarding compensation for affected actors. This could involve back pay for lost work, adjusted terms for future projects, or other forms of compensation.
Force Majeure Clauses: Contracts between actors and production companies often include force majeure clauses, which outline compensation and other terms in the event of unforeseen circumstances such as strikes. These clauses can vary widely depending on the specific language in the contract.
Insurance Policies: Some actors and production companies may have insurance policies that cover losses incurred due to strikes or other disruptions. These policies may provide financial compensation to help mitigate the impact of the strike on both parties.
Residuals and Royalties: Depending on the type of work affected by the strike (e.g., film, television, streaming), actors may continue to receive residuals or royalties from past work that is still being broadcast or distributed during the strike period. This ongoing income can provide some financial stability during the strike.
Solidarity Funds: Unions and other industry organizations may establish solidarity funds to provide financial assistance to members affected by strikes. These funds may come from member contributions, donations, or other sources, and they can help support actors and other workers during difficult times.
It's important to note that the specific compensation mechanisms during a strike can vary widely depending on the circumstances and agreements in place at the time. Actors and production companies alike may face financial challenges during strikes, and finding mutually acceptable solutions often requires negotiation and compromise.
