Leonardo DiCaprio may have enjoyed a luxurious summer cruising the Mediterranean with models, but other actors are facing a different reality during the SAG-AFTRA strike. Lesser-known actors and actresses are struggling to make ends meet, taking up alternative jobs such as driving for Uber, working as personal trainers, or offering personalized video messages on Cameo. Cheyenne Jackson, for example, posted a shirtless photo on Instagram promoting his availability on the Cameo app. While Jackson has since deleted the post and declined to comment, it highlights the lengths to which actors are going to secure income.
Hollywood has been at a standstill since May 2 due to the Writers Guild of America strike. As a result, actors are prohibited from promoting their projects, auditioning for new roles, and attending events like film festivals and ComicCon. With no end in sight, the situation for actors is becoming more desperate. Billy Porter, star of the TV show “Pose,” revealed that he may have to sell his house due to the lack of work. He was meant to start filming a new movie and television show in September, but both projects have been put on hold. Porter’s situation reflects the hardship faced by many actors, as 87% of SAG-AFTRA members earn less than $26,000 per year, which is the threshold for eligibility in the union’s healthcare plan.
Emil Beheshti, known for his roles in movies and TV shows like “Ford v Ferrari,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” and “The Resident,” has always relied on side hustles. Moving to Los Angeles 24 years ago, Beheshti took up jobs as a Medicare insurance broker and vending machine owner to supplement his acting career. With the looming strikes, Beheshti obtained a substitute teaching license and began teaching at local schools. Despite being a regular on picket lines, Beheshti anticipates a return to the classroom when schools reopen in LA. He is also focusing on his insurance work, which provides a stable source of income.
Ilana Becker, an actress who has appeared in shows like “Law & Order,” has had to find alternative ways to earn money during the strike. Becker, known for her commercial work, has become an influencer on Instagram, promoting various brands and products. Selling products through her social media aligns with her passion for storytelling and allows her to leverage her skills as a pitchwoman. However, the income generated from affiliate marketing can be delayed by several months, adding to the urgency felt by actors as the strike continues.
Alysia Reiner, known for her role in “Orange Is The New Black,” has used the strike as an opportunity to give back to her community. Reiner, who sought refuge with her family on Fire Island during the pandemic, spent the summer volunteering as a firefighter and ambulance driver. In preparation, she completed a three-month intensive course and obtained her firefighter certification. Reiner’s involvement in the Fire Island community has provided her with a sense of connection and purpose, something actors often miss when they are unable to work on set.
Overall, the SAG-AFTRA strike has forced actors to explore alternative sources of income and find creative ways to make ends meet. From taking up side jobs to leveraging social media platforms, actors are doing what they can to navigate through this challenging period.
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