Highlights
- The ongoing Hollywood strike involving the WGA and SAG-AFTRA is not limited to the U.S. and has also engaged overseas actors like Andy Serkis.
- Andy Serkis emphasizes the importance of valuing artists and their work, urging people not to undermine the strike and to recognize the crucial role of actors and writers in the entertainment industry.
- Despite the history of similar strikes, Serkis remains hopeful for a positive outcome and believes that this strike will result in better treatment for writers and actors, calling for solidarity and support from those who are more financially secure.
Lord of the Rings actor Andy Serkis has some words for those making light of the Hollywood strikes. The ongoing writer and actor strike in Hollywood by the Writer's Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has disrupted productions. However, Serkis wants people to know that strikes are necessary.
The strike has affected many productions, including some big comic book shows who've pulled the plug until it ends, like Daredevil: Born and The Penguin. Understandably, this has been frustrating for several viewers who aren't particularly thrilled about some of their most anticipated movies and series facing indefinite delays. However, this frustration has been seen as shortsighted by those involved with the strike, leading many to speak out and explain the significant reasons why people's precious entertainment is taking a hit right now.
One such individual is Serkis, whose iconic career from playing Gollum/Smeagol in The Lord of the Rings and more has given him the attention that tends to be helpful when making a statement. In an interview with Sky News, the beloved actor tried to put things in perspective for any people trashing the strike. "Artists are becoming severely undervalued," he explained. "We think actors going on strike is a bit of a joke, [but] when the pandemic was happening, what was everyone doing for two years inside? They were watching shows. It's a very important job. It's a service, and you just want to be paid a reasonable wage."
Serkis, who also works as a director, voiced his optimism for the unions involved in the strike, lending a bit of hope amid the uncertainty. "I think there's unquestionably going to be a victory for SAG, for the Writer's Guild, for [UK entertainment union] Equity, it's going to come out positive. They are going to hold on this time." As hopeful as that sounds, just mentioning the words "this time" may be a bit discouraging for those familiar with the history of such things. This isn't the first time in recent memory that similar strikes have happened, so it could almost raise fears that another may be in the cards not far down the road.
But it's also important to realize that the strike is happening for a reason and that those involved are taking part because of historically unfair treatment they wish to rectify. Not everybody can be paid massive sums like Dwayne Johnson, though Johnson's recent donation to the unions in support of the strike went a long way. That's part of the spirit of the strike. Solidarity by the more well-off members in support of their fellow union folks who, among other things, aren't paid what they're worth by the studios, resulting in the inability to support themselves with their work alone.
So Serkis' words should hopefully help drive some of that home to anyone prioritizing their entertainment over the rights of those making it. The strike has exposed the weaknesses of studios like Marvel, and it would be ideal if that exposure finally results in better treatment for the writers and actors going forward. Enjoy all the wonderful entertainment available, but don't forget the people who make it all possible.
The Lord of the Rings movies are available on Max.
Source: Sky News