What UK Actors Need to Know About the SAG-AFTRA Actors Strike

Cred. TIFFANY TAYLOR The Hollywood Reporter 
Understanding the SAG-AFTRA strike and its impact on UK performers in the UK
If you're an actor or performer in the entertainment industry, you may have heard about the SAG-AFTRA industrial action. We’ll break down what the strike means, how it affects performers, and what actions you can take.

What is the SAG-AFTRA industrial action? 
It's a work stoppage initiated by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). This action comes as a result of ongoing contract negotiations with the Association of Motion Pictures and Television Producers (AMPTP) which represent corporations that create streaming/film content. That includes companies like Netflix, Amazon and traditional studios. 

Why is the strike happening?
SAG-AFTRA is negotiating with AMPTP about fair wages, improved working conditions, protection of performers' likenesses (including the fight against a requirement for performers' consent for the creation and use of digital replicas, or for digital alterations of a performance), and better residual payments for performers in film, television, and digital media.
You can read more about the strike on SAG-AFTRA’s website.
https://www.sagaftrastrike.org/

How does the strike affect UK performers?
You may have noticed the lack of projects and opportunities due to the affects of both the actor and writer strikes.
If you’re a performer who has Equity membership but you’re not a member of SAG-AFTRA, the advice is to continue to work when you can.
If you're involved in co-productions or working with SAG-AFTRA members, the strike can potentially disrupt or delay productions. It's important to stay informed and be prepared for any changes that may arise. 

Should I/can I participate in the strike? 
If you’re an Equity member, their UK lawyers have advised that whilst the strike is lawful in the US, it’s not legal in the UK. Therefore any performer joining a strike or who refuses to cross a picket line in the UK will have no protection against being dismissed or sued by the producer or engager for breach of contracts. 

How long will the SAG-AFTRA industrial action last? 
Unfortunately, the duration remains uncertain, as it depends on the progress made in ongoing negotiations. It could be resolved relatively quickly or extend over a longer period. We’ll keep this page updated as we find out more.
During this period of industrial action, it's crucial to stay informed, support your fellow performers, and seek guidance when needed.