Will Smith has shown his support for the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, which began on July 13, by posting on Instagram. In the post, the 54-year-old actor expressed that it is a pivotal moment for their profession and shared his feelings about his acting career. He mentioned his acting coach, Aaron Speiser, who has been instrumental in helping him through difficult days and reducing his self-doubt.
Smith’s post featured a photo of himself with students from an acting class, and he emphasized the importance of supporting the next generation of actors. He praised his coach for continuing to support and inspire talented hopefuls in the art form that he loves and has been a part of for three decades. Aaron Speiser responded to the tribute with gratitude, expressing how much it means to him. He also acknowledged the mutual learning and growth that he has experienced with Smith as his student.
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The SAG-AFTRA Foundation, an organization that provides support and resources for artists, thanked Smith for speaking up and supporting the strike.
Will Smith joins other Hollywood actors like Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, Rami Malek, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus in showing their solidarity with the strike. Prior to the strike announcement, these actors signed a letter to union leadership, urging them not to settle with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers if their demands were not met.
The strike comes after failed contract negotiations with AMPTP, and the actors’ union is seeking fair treatment and better working conditions for its members. As the strike continues, support from prominent actors like Will Smith adds weight to their cause and highlights the importance of standing up for their profession.