The role of background actors in the entertainment industry might often go unnoticed, but they play a crucial part in bringing scenes to life and creating a vibrant on-screen environment. However, recent allegations have raised concerns about their treatment, as it’s reported that Disney scanned the background cast of “WandaVision” without their consent, leaving them uncertain about the use of their digital avatars.
The allegations come amid a growing wave of efforts by entertainment industry workers to demand fair treatment and better working conditions. SAG-AFTRA, a prominent industry union, has been advocating for the rights of background actors, who play a significant role in adding depth and authenticity to various scenes.
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Alexandria Rubalcaba, a cast member of Marvel’s “WandaVision,” recounted the experience of being scanned along with other background actors during the show’s production. In an NPR interview, she described the process of posing with various expressions for cameras for 15 minutes. Rubalcaba emphasized that she never granted consent to Marvel Studios or Disney to use her likeness in this manner. Additionally, she and other background actors were allegedly left in the dark about when or how their digital avatars would be utilized, raising concerns about their rights and compensation.
Background actors who are part of SAG-AFTRA typically earn a rate of $187 per day or $23.38 per hour, with variations based on specific talents, exposure to elements, or stand-in roles. The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and the potential use of digital avatars have sparked worries among these actors. Rubalcaba expressed concerns about the possibility of AI gradually replacing human background actors, raising ethical questions about the use of digital likenesses without consent.
SAG-AFTRA’s efforts to address these concerns have led to a list of demands aimed at protecting human-created work in the face of advancing technology. The guild’s efforts to secure actors’ consent before using their digital likenesses have been met with challenges from some studios.
The situation brings to light the ongoing struggle for better working conditions, fair pay, and consent for actors at all levels of the industry. Background actors, alongside other industry professionals like stunt performers, have taken to the picket lines to advocate for their rights. The implications of using digital copies without consent not only affect the actors’ compensation but also raise broader questions about the viability of acting as a career choice.
The case highlights the need for ongoing negotiation and dialogue between industry stakeholders to ensure that advancements in technology are balanced with ethical considerations and the fair treatment of all professionals involved. Ultimately, it’s a call for greater transparency, respect for artists’ rights, and the protection of the creative workforce that brings stories to life on screen.