SAG-AFTRA Prepares Hollywood Publicists for Strike (EXCLUSIVE)
variety.comMatt Donnelly Senior Film Writer Leadership from the performers guild SAG-AFTRA held a conference call with top Hollywood publicity agencies on Monday, bracing the powerful gatekeepers of A-list stars for a strike.
The objective of the call, according to sources, was to brief the reps on protocols and how talent can best serve the union if and when a strike takes place. “SAG-AFTRA’s National Board has the option to call a strike if the AMPTP won’t agree on a deal that bolsters performer’s careers and ensures their profession remains one that can support a dignified livelihood,” leadership wrote to the PR agencies ahead of the meeting.
During the call, which one participant described as panicked, the publicists asked varied questions — including if their clients would be allowed to sit for panels at the upcoming San Diego Comic-Con, and if promotional obligations outside the United States would be kosherˆ.
It’s the most sobering sign yet that the union may join the Writers Guild of America in battling the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers for more generous contracts.
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