Hollywood Actors and Writers Strike Continues as Many Seek Other Income Sources
The ongoing strike by Hollywood actors and writers has created a dilemma for major studios, as many individuals in the industry also work in other businesses, often full-time, and are therefore under little pressure to settle. This situation has prolonged the strikes, causing a significant economic hardship for those on the picket lines.
Chaley Rose, known for her appearances in numerous TV shows and movies, is one such individual who doesn’t rely solely on acting for income. In addition to her acting gigs, she works as a personal assistant, camp counselor, and preschool gymnastics teacher. While these jobs may not pay well, they have been sufficient for Rose to make ends meet. She participates in picketing on the days she is free from her other work.
The writers’ strike, which began in May, has pushed some actors to explore alternative professions. Tyson Wong, a 26-year-old actor and TikTok personality, took a job as a bartender after the strike started. Wong expressed that acting was not enough to sustain him financially, and the romance of the industry has faded due to the strike.
The strike has caused film and TV production across the country to come to a standstill. In response, studios are planning to fill the programming gaps with fall seasons heavy on game shows and reality programs, which do not require writers and actors. This approach allows the studios to save money in the short run while also preparing for a potentially lengthy dispute.
The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) joined the Writers Guild of America (WGA) in the strike on July 14, further exacerbating the situation. The actors’ demands include an increase in their minimum wage, pension and health-care contribution upgrades that have remained unchanged for 40 years, and job security against replacement by artificial intelligence. Despite the Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers offering a three-year package of wage increases and benefit improvements worth over $1 billion, the actors remain steadfast in their demands.
The striking actors have portrayed the conflict as a battle between the struggling little guy and greedy executives. Disney CEO Bob Iger’s comments, labeling the actors’ demands as unrealistic, only added fuel to the fire. However, the financial realities of actors and writers remain somewhat unclear, with limited data on their income from film and TV work available. Many actors and writers hold other jobs, as affirmed by statistics indicating a majority of industry workers have additional employment.
The strike is not only impacting those directly involved but also industry workers who are not participating in the walkout. Members of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), representing various roles from camera operators to wardrobe workers, have been hit hard. The Motion Picture & Television Fund has reported a significant increase in requests for assistance from IATSE members, leaving many in desperate situations.
While the strike persists, some industry professionals are adapting by finding part-time or remote work to make ends meet. Screenwriter Kyra Jones, who recently moved to Los Angeles, has been able to secure a part-time job after being unemployed for a year. Union demands, such as a minimum number of writers per show, could potentially improve job prospects for industry workers like Jones.
As the strike continues, there is a growing need for financial support within the industry. The SAG-AFTRA Foundation has witnessed an increase in emergency funding requests, and the Motion Picture & Television Fund has seen daily pleas for assistance rise tenfold. These organizations are working tirelessly to provide aid during this challenging period.
In summary, the Hollywood actors and writers strike shows no signs of ending soon. The strike has created economic hardships for many, especially those wholly dependent on the entertainment industry for income. However, it has also shed light on the fact that a significant portion of actors and writers work in other professions, lessening the urgency for them to reach a settlement. As the impasse continues, the landscape of the industry is shifting, with studios considering alternative programming and industry workers seeking supplemental income.
