It is common knowledge that the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes have shut down Hollywood. With a few exceptions, these strikes have closed various film productions throughout the industry. The strike results from big studio productions’ failure to meet actors’ and writers’ demands for better pay. As well as creating a new contract that considers the nuances of streaming and independent filmmaking.
Will Smith has joined many A-level celebrities publicly supporting the SAG-AFTRA strike. On his Instagram feed, the Hollywood veteran emphasized the strike’s significance. He emphasized the importance of the strike in addressing the issues confronting performers who barely make minimum wage. Smith’s emphasized in his post that studios do not pay most performers millions of dollars. This is clear from the fact that he posted his statement with a photo of himself, his acting coach, and his current students. He referred to them as the “next generation of actors.”
Smith began his post by saying. ‘As some of yall mighta heard, my guild, @SAGAFTRA, are on strike along with our writer colleagues in the WGA.’ ‘It’s a pivotal moment for our profession.’He then went on to share a little of his inner vulnerability. He added that. “33 years into my career as an actor, and there are still some days when I feel like I’m that kid from Philly who’s on borrowed time, even though I know I’ve been extraordinarily blessed and lucky to have worked as an actor all this time.’.
But the Independence Day star followed this statement up with praise for his teacher and his unwavering support throughout Will’s career. ‘It’s thanks to my friend, my teacher, and my mentor @aaronspeiser (Aaron Speiser), whom I fondly refer to as “coach” that those days when I feel like I don’t belong are fewer and further between,’ the actor revealed. Adding, ‘Coach invited me to an acting class the other day, and I met a group of our talented next generation of actors, and they amazed and inspired me!’Smith ended the statement by stating.’I’m grateful to coach for continuing to support these talented hopefuls in this art form that I love and have been lucky enough to work in for three decades of my life! Thanks, COACH.’
The SAG-AFTRA Foundation responded to Smith’s post by saying. “Thank you for your support, Will! Other notable actors have shared their support for the union. For instance, Captain America star, Hayley Atwell, spoke at a solidarity rally hosted by the British actors union Equity UK. She said: “So many people who are in this profession are suffering without any cause other than the people are exploiting them and profiting off their own creative talent by not enabling them to have a living wage.” “That’s unacceptable when you’ve got heads of streaming services and studios making profits of hundreds of millions of dollars.” She added.
Keke Palmer also shared a statement on social media where she wrote. “Love to all my fellow actors and writers.” “Praying that this is resolved swiftly and we all come out feeling empowered! Families have to be fed but people have to and deserve [to] be respected for their work as well.” While on her part, Jessica Chastain shared a tweet. She wrote: “The AMPTP refused to make a fair deal on television, theatrical and streaming work. We are not afraid of a fight, and we will not back down. My union, SAG/AFTRA, is now on strike.”