SAG-AFTRA Files Complaint Against Actors Equity as Live Show Taping Dispute Escalates

The dispute between SAG-AFTRA and Actors Equity over who represents actors when it comes to tapings of live shows is escalating, as SAG-AFTRA has filed a formal complaint requesting a mediator from the Associated Actors and Artistes of America (4As). “It is with heavy hearts that we file a formal complaint and request for a mediator in our jurisdictional dispute,” SAG-AFTRA president Gabrielle Carteris and national executive director David White said in a memo released on Saturday. “Let us be very clear: this is a last resort. We tried negotiation, but Actors’ Equity Association refused our waiver and walked away from talks with no notice.” The conflict was brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, as SAG-AFTRA, which has always claimed jurisdiction over tapings, offered a “limited waiver” to Actors Equity for the duration of the pandemic. The issue has become particularly contentious as theatrical companies have turned to streaming and taping stage performances to salvage lost revenue from the shutdown of live performances. Also Read: 'We Are Being Left Behind': Retired Hollywood Actors Protest Changes to SAG-AFTRA Health Plan Actors Equity — which represents over 50,000 theatrical actors and stage managers — has accused SAG-AFTRA of undermining them by negotiating...

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