Warner Bros. Studios witnessed a powerful display of solidarity on Friday as actors from the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) took to the picket lines in their first day of strike action.
Among the throng of dedicated performers was Michael James Lazar, a seasoned actor who has graced the screens of popular shows like “How to Get Away with Murder” and “Grey’s Anatomy.” Despite his successful career, Lazar, like many middle-class working actors, finds it challenging to solely support himself through acting. Now, he and thousands of fellow actors are fighting for fair pay and better job security during this pivotal strike.
Lazar’s journey into acting began in 2010, gradually building his career through guest and co-star roles alongside prominent actors like Viola Davis and Seth MacFarlane. However, even with such impressive credits, Lazar acknowledges that his income from acting alone falls short of sustaining his livelihood. In his best year, he estimates earning around $40,000 to $45,000, which includes residual checks from past roles. Shockingly, many SAG-AFTRA members do not even meet the $26,470 minimum annual income required for health insurance through the union.
The pivotal issue at the heart of the strike revolves around residuals. These royalty payments are crucial for actors, serving as supplemental income during periods of unemployment. However, the rise of streaming platforms has led to a significant decline in residual payments. SAG-AFTRA argues that actors deserve a fair share of the revenue generated by syndication and digital platforms, urging the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) to address this issue during negotiations.
Another pressing concern for actors like Lazar is the potential threat of artificial intelligence (AI) replacing human performers. This issue aligns with the ongoing Writers Guild of America strike, where the impact of AI in the creative industry is also a contentious topic. Lazar recognizes the importance of protecting actors’ work from being replaced by AI and digital likeness, highlighting the need for safeguards and fair compensation in an evolving technological landscape.
As the strike continues, Lazar and his fellow actors are prepared to weather the storm, understanding the potential consequences of an extended period without auditions or work. To sustain his household, Lazar plans to supplement his income by driving for a rideshare service and working as a brand ambassador. His wife’s corporate job will also provide support during this challenging time. While disappointed to be without work temporarily, Lazar remains committed to the cause, aiming for higher pay and better job security for all actors.
The SAG-AFTRA strike shines a spotlight on the struggles faced by middle-class actors, who make up the majority of the union’s membership. Led by dedicated individuals like Michael James Lazar, the strike serves as a powerful reminder of the need for fair pay and better job security in the entertainment industry. As the battle for residuals and protection against AI intensifies, actors are ready to make sacrifices to ensure their voices are heard and their contributions are duly recognized.