Updated with SAG-AFTRA statement.. Publicists are stepping out of the shadows and making their voices heard. They recently had a meeting with SAG-AFTRA leadership to discuss the impact of dual strikes on talent firms. However, tensions rose when the guild’s National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, apologized for the strike’s impact while acknowledging the “collateral damage” it would cause. The context surrounding this comment remains unclear.
Despite being asked for comment, SAG-AFTRA declined, stating that they do not discuss private meetings. This response has left publicists feeling negative and unsympathetic towards their plight. They believe that instead of dismissing them, SAG-AFTRA should have enlisted their help to amplify their message. The publicists feel despair and anger in the aftermath of the meeting.
Publicists are now calling for SAG-AFTRA to loosen their grip on publicity, citing the contrasting approach of the Writers Guild of America (WGA). While the WGA strictly forbade their members from promoting projects with struck companies, the rules seemed to have relaxed over time. This disparity in decision-making between the two guilds stems from the different nature of their crafts. Writers are used to going their own way, while actors rely more on directors for guidance.
One issue that has caused frustration among publicists is the inconsistency in allowing some actors to engage in publicity for “truly independent” projects. However, most talent remains on lockdown, fearing backlash for promoting themselves. The situation has left publicists feeling fearful and confused, as they are bound by regulations despite not being members of SAG-AFTRA themselves.
The uncertainty of the coming months has led to a high-level publicist organizing a private Zoom meeting for members. However, due to the fear surrounding the situation, the meeting has been canceled. This year has been historic for Hollywood, with actors and writers striking together for the first time since 1960. While publicists support the actors and writers, they believe that SAG-AFTRA’s publicity policy has gone too far. They argue that representatives in the interconnected Hollywood community deserve some consideration.
