Why This Legal Battle Between Equity and Spotlight Should Matter to Every Actor

If you're an actor in the UK, there's something happening right now that could seriously shape your future in this industry!
The latest news involves, Spotlight which is a UK based casting platform that connects performers with casting professionals in the creative industry and Equity which is the performers union, they represent actors, ensuring fair working conditions for its members. Equity is taking legal action against Spotlight, and the case is already in motion at London’s High Court. It might take a few more weeks before there's a final decision, but this could redefine how actors access work, and create fair treatment in our industry.
Right now, Equity is arguing that Spotlight should be officially classed as an employment agency.Why does that matter? Because if Spotlight is classed that way, they would no longer be able to charge whatever they want for membership. Any fees would need to reflect the actual cost of running the platform and nothing more. This is huge, because let’s be honest, Spotlight isn’t cheap. After the company was taken over in 2021, fees skyrocketed. In the twelve years before the takeover, membership fees only went up by £18. But in the four years since? They’ve jumped by £47.80, landing us at a current yearly fee of £205 including VAT. That’s not a small amount especially when you're already covering headshots, classes, travel, self-tape setups, and the rest.
The concern is that Spotlight’s influence is so dominant, it’s creating a monopoly where they’re controlling the industry so much that competition (and therefore choice) is basically disappearing. Performers are now wondering, “Do we pay because we feel we have no choice?”. It’s no secret that major auditions and professional jobs are often posted through Spotlight, but this creates a pressure to pay for the platform. If you’re not on it, it can feel like you’re invisible. This creates limitations for the acting community, impacting working class performers, minorities and those who do not secure regular work. But you aren’t alone, this frustration is felt across the entire industry. Equity President Lynda Rooke states "Performers are being ripped off simply for wanting to work. The tax on hope, the hope of finding work, must stop".
This could be the start of real change that is long overdue. If equity wins, Spotlight could be forced to reduce or cap what they charge and the fees would be based on production costs rather than profit, so there is more transparency in how the money is used. A legal win might also start a rise in more platforms that could mean a broader range of opportunities and fairer access for actors from all backgrounds and regions. With equity standing up for all actors, this moment highlights the importance of union involvement and hopefully this encourages more members to push for even more improvements and changes down the line.
But what are the alternatives? 
There are several alternative casting platforms that are affordable, for actors to utilise if spotlight isn’t feasible. Here is a list of the main platforms used.

1. Mandy Network- the basic membership is free, with the option for premium. This is a good place to find low/mid budget jobs, to gain experience if you are upcoming. You will find a lot of Indi filmmakers and theatre productions; this can be a good place for student films. However, not all jobs are paid and due to its popularity, it can be competitive.
2. Casting Networks - the basic profile is free, but it does cost more to upload extra media and submissions. You will find a lot of commercial work, but it is largely focused on London.
3. StarNow - free basic profile, with the option for premium. This is a very easy platform so beginner friendly. You will find a lot of short films, commercials, and social media content opportunities. A lot of these can be unpaid and low- quality job listings, so it’s best to be used as a step into the industry and to connect with creators.
4. Backstage - subscription costs around 10 a month. It is used globally, with lots of student and Indi film projects. However, it is US based but it is becoming increasingly active in the UK.
5. The Talent Manager - free subscription. Has a focus on tv and documentaries with crew jobs available too. It is very active in the UK tv casting, but it less focused on actors and more production work/crew.
6. Social-media (Instagram,TikTok,YouTube)-these are free!Showcase your work in your own creative way, casting directors are always watching out for upcoming talent.
7. Self-submission-reach out to filmmakers, production companies, casting directors and agencies. Make sure to stay respectful and professional if taking this route.
8. Networking events - go meet people and connect, this is a great way to find work. Share contact details and keep in touch as they might just keep you in mind for future projects. You can find events on websites such as Eventbrite.
9. Facebook/Twitter groups- find casting call groups, they post a lot of opportunities, you can find communities in your specific area too. Look up groups like “UK Casting calls”, “Actors UK” etc.

10.Festivals- attending film festivals or volunteering if they are too expensive, can be a great way to meet creators. A lot of casting directors attend festivals, build up your network of connections.
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But why should This Legal Battle Between Equity and Spotlight matter to you? Because depending on the outcome, it could lead to changes in how casting is shared. It’s a big deal! This isn’t just a legal battlefield. It’s about fairness, and the right to pursue acting without being backed into a financial corner, because in no other industry would the workers have to fund their own hiring platform. It’s about having choices instead of feeling forced to pay just to be seen. So, while the verdict is still pending, keep talking and asking questions about it, stay updated and remember that this could shift the industry in a way that helps support every performer in the industry. 

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Author

Olivia B & Sophie W