SAG-AFTRA, an acronym for the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, represents a diverse array of professionals within the entertainment industry. Formed through the merger of two previously separate unions, SAG and AFTRA, on March 30, 2012, the organization now boasts approximately 160,000 members, including actors, dancers, news anchors, voice-over artists, and more.
Throughout its history, SAG-AFTRA has played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and interests of its members. This advocacy has sometimes led to strikes, with one of the most notable occurrences happening in 2023. During this period, SAG-AFTRA engaged in a prolonged strike after failing to reach a satisfactory agreement with Hollywood studios represented by the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). Lasting over three months, this strike marked the longest in the union’s history, surpassing a 95-day strike by SAG in 1980.
Beyond labor negotiations, SAG-AFTRA also organizes the annual SAG Awards ceremony. This event, where members vote to determine the winners in various categories, serves as a precursor to the Oscars and often provides insight into potential Oscar contenders. The SAG Awards have become a significant event in the entertainment industry, capturing public attention and contributing to the excitement surrounding awards season.
In essence, SAG-AFTRA serves as a vital institution within the entertainment landscape, representing and advocating for the diverse talents that contribute to the industry’s rich tapestry.
