EXCLUSIVE: Breaking News! Viola Davis, the renowned G20 star, has made a bold move that could set a precedent for other A-listers. Despite the SAG-AFTRA interim agreement being in place for the film’s production, Davis has decided to step away from the project in support of the actors and writers strikes. In an exclusive statement obtained by FilmmakerFocus, Davis expressed her love for the movie but stated that it would not be appropriate to move forward during the strike. She emphasized her solidarity with actors, SAG/AFTRA, and the WGA, and the producers on the project have agreed with her decision.
This news comes just a week after actor Tobias Menzies revealed his backing away from the Formula One film, Apex, alongside Brad Pitt. Menzies explained that the film was not using any SAG actors, so he had to stand down. The situation highlights the uncertainty and awkwardness faced by stars during these strikes, as they must carefully consider the optics of their choices.
Despite the approval of a waiver for G20 by SAG-AFTRA, there is still uncertainty about whether the project will move forward. The involvement of Amazon Studios, although the project is from the non AMPTP-affiliated MRC and will only be distributed by Amazon, adds to the complexity. The decision to accept an interim agreement for a project can have significant implications, as it may be seen as “scabbing” by some.
The actors guild has granted over 100 interim agreements to movies and series since the SAG-AFTRA walkout began. However, there has been frustration and confusion about how projects from different budgets and studios can end up with the same agreement. Other star-studded projects that have secured the agreement include Apple TV+’s series Tehran, New Line’s The Watchers from Ishana Night Shyamalan, Glenn Close’s The Summer Book, and A24 titles Mother Mary and Death of a Unicorn. Recently, the Civil War spy drama series The Gray House, produced by Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman, also secured an agreement.
G20 is an action thriller directed by Patricia Riggen, known for The 33. The film revolves around terrorists taking over the G20 Summit, with Viola Davis playing American President Taylor Sutton. She must use her statecraft and military experience to protect her family, fellow leaders, and the world. The script was written by Noah and Logan Miller, with revisions by Caitlin Parrish and Erica Weiss. Producers include Andrew Lazar from Mad Chance, as well as Davis and Julius Tennon from JuVee. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project!
