Voting on Hollywood Actors’ Fate: A Close Call with Criticisms?

The outcome of an already tense contract vote among the Hollywood actors could be close, as a handful of the more powerful actors have pulled out due to criticism over parts of the deal. With the coronavirus pandemic wreaking havoc on the film industry, the actors have been extremely vocal in the debate on how to best move forward. Last week, the actors’ union, SAG-AFTRA, unveiled the details of a new three-year film and television contract, which was met with mixed reactions. The contract offered an increase in pay for the actors, as well as increased safety protections, but some said the agreement was not enough. A group of influential actors, including Bradley Cooper, Amy Adams, and Robert Downey Jr., pulled out of the vote over contentions that the new contract did not do enough to protect actors from sexual harassment and its legal remedies. These actors have since been followed by an even larger group of stars who are withholding their votes. The move has riled the SAG-AFTRA leadership, who view the actors as a voice of reason that could lead to a successful vote. However, it is estimated that a majority of the actors will still vote in favor of the new contract. This could be especially useful considering that the actors are under pressure from their employers to adopt the contract or risk being locked out of future projects. The overwhelming support of the new contract speaks to the actors’ commitment to their craft and the hard work that goes into making a movie or television show a success. Despite the back and forth between the two sides, the actors remain committed to making sure that the film and television industry will continue to be a safe and rewarding workplace for everyone involved. No matter what the outcome of the contract vote is, it is clear that the powerful actors of Hollywood are continuing to work together to ensure a better future for the industry as a whole.