SAG-AFTRA Strike: FAQs for Influencers, Journalists, Cosplayers, and More.
The SAG-AFTRA strike has caused significant discussion and uncertainty regarding what activities are prohibited and still permissible. SAG-AFTRA has released a comprehensive FAQ covering members, non-members, indie producers, and more to address these concerns. Despite this resource, people still have lingering questions. Here, based on SAG-AFTRA’s guidelines, we provide answers to some of the most common inquiries.
Q: As a film critic, am I allowed to review movies?
A: Absolutely. Film critics are not part of the strike and are under no obligation to cease reviewing movies or TV shows.
Q: Can entertainment journalists cover movies and TV during the strike?
A: Yes. Whether or not they are union members, entertainment journalists are unaffected by the strike. Even broadcast journalists SAG-AFTRA represent are natural, as the strike solely pertains to the TV/Theatrical contract.
Q: Will actors be available for interviews about their projects?
A: It is unlikely. Such interviews would be seen as promoting struck work. However, actors may discuss their reasons for participating in the strike.
Q: What if an actor arranges an interview through their publicist rather than the studio?
A: According to SAG-AFTRA, this is still not permissible. After a few weeks, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) softened their stance on this issue, but SAG-AFTRA still needs to follow suit.
Q: I am not a SAG-AFTRA member. How can I express support for the strike?
A: You can show support by posting on social media or by donating to the Entertainment Community Fund, which aids crew members who are currently unemployed. Additionally, the union encourages non-members to participate in picket lines and rallies. You can find a list of picket locations here.
Q: Should I boycott Netflix?
A: Neither the WGA nor SAG-AFTRA has called for a boycott of Netflix or any other streaming platform. Engaging in a personal boycott will have little impact.
Q: Can SAG-AFTRA members participate in reality shows or game shows?
A: Yes. The union has provided a helpful document outlining the activities that SAG-AFTRA performers are still permitted to engage in. This includes appearances on reality shows, game shows, commercials, video game work, and talk shows.
Q: As an influencer, can I promote movies and TV shows?
Most influencers are not union members and are not bound by strike regulations. However, those who operate under the SAG-AFTRA Influencer Agreement have been asked to refrain from promoting struck work through paid endorsements and organic content. If an influencer already has a contractual obligation to promote something, the union advises them to fulfill the contract terms. They are also free to create content related to any other subject.
Q: Can I engage in cosplay?
A: If you are not a member of SAG-AFTRA, you can freely pursue cosplay (except for future union influencers, as mentioned above). However, if you are a SAG-AFTRA member, ask yourself whether you are promoting struck work while looking in a mirror. If the answer is yes, then it is not permissible.
Q: As an independent producer, can I obtain a waiver to continue my project?
A: SAG-AFTRA refers to this as an “interim agreement.” To qualify, you must agree to adhere to the final terms reached between the AMPTP and the union. Furthermore, you must establish genuine independence from AMPTP-affiliated companies.
Q: What are the consequences of violating the strike rules?
A: If an infraction occurs unintentionally, you will likely receive a gentle reminder not to repeat the action. However, the union possesses the authority to enforce its strike rules, which can result in penalties such as censure, reprimand, fines, suspension, and expulsion. Non-members who engage in struck work will be prohibited from joining the union.
