SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher, a beloved actress famous for her role in “The Nanny,” is at the forefront of the ongoing strike by actors who are demanding better pay and stronger protections. In an interview with “CBS Mornings,” Drescher expressed frustration that the other side, represented by the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), has refused to engage in any dialogue.
Drescher stated, “I wish we could have a conversation with the other side. We were ready to start talks immediately, but they have chosen to punish us by avoiding any communication.” AMPTP, a trade association that includes Paramount Studios and shares a parent company with CBS News, has been stonewalling the union without any meetings or phone calls to address the dispute.
Following Drescher’s interview, the alliance claimed that negotiations had been misrepresented by SAG-AFTRA and that an offer had been made to the actors. While Drescher did not disclose specific details of the offer, she emphasized that going on strike is a significant decision and dismissed the notion that the actors would reject a favorable deal.
“Why would we go on strike if we were given an incredible offer? It doesn’t make sense,” Drescher asserted. “Unlike the CEOs of these companies who earn $78,000 a day, we’re just working people trying to make ends meet. It’s insulting for them to imply that we’re acting like spoiled brats.”
Drescher pointed out that the primary concern for the producers is to demonstrate profit gains to their shareholders rather than looking out for the well-being of the actors. Many union members are struggling to meet even the minimum requirements for health insurance. CBS News has contacted the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers for their input on the situation.
The SAG-AFTRA strike commenced last week, following in the footsteps of the screenwriters who previously went on strike. The dispute arises from discrepancies in financial compensation resulting from the coexistence of traditional broadcast networks and streaming platforms.
Drescher explained that in the past, a show’s success relied on longevity, attracting viewers and generating ad revenue over multiple seasons. Syndication, cable broadcasts, and global sales allowed revenue to continue even after a series had ended. However, the emergence of streaming platforms introduced a significant shift in the business model.
According to Drescher, the industry transitioned to labeling shows as limited series, comprising only a few episodes per season. A successful series might run for three to four years under this new format. Actors also criticize the lack of transparency from streaming platforms, as they rarely share consumption data.
“We have no idea about the numbers,” Drescher revealed. “The people who run the streaming channels are very secretive. They won’t disclose the information, instead offering us what they claim is our share. However, when we’re only involved in a handful of episodes, it’s difficult to earn enough. There’s no continuation beyond the money we receive initially.”
It’s worth noting that while some CBS News staff members are SAG-AFTRA members, they operate under a separate contract and are not affected by the ongoing strike.
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