SAG-AFTRA clarifies rules for Halloween strike after celebrity backlash

Ian West/PA Images via Getty Images; John Kobaloff/Getty Images

Earlier this week, SAG-AFTRA issued guidelines for members looking to “celebrate Halloween this year while also remaining in solidarity” with the strike. Actors were advised to avoid costumes inspired by spectacle content — Barbie, Wednesday Addams, Marvel superheroes, etc. — and opt for generic characters like a ghost or zombie instead.

The response from union members was quick, with many criticizing the restrictions. In response, SAG-AFTRA issued a clarification late Friday, stating that it “issued Halloween guidance in response to questions from creators and members about how to support the strike during this holiday season.” The union added: “This does not apply to anyone’s children. We are on strike for important reasons, and have been for almost 100 days. Our first priority remains getting the studios back to the negotiating table so we can get a fair deal for our members, and finally get our industry back to work.” .

This explanation follows backlash from some celebrities over the rules. On Thursday, Ryan Reynolds mocked the proposed guidelines and chirp“I look forward to screaming ‘scabies’ at my 8 year old all night long. She’s not in the union but she needs to learn.”

Elsewhere, Mandy Moore posted on her Instagram Stories: “Is this a joke? Come on @sagaftra. This is what matters? We’re asking you to negotiate in good faith on our behalf. So many people in every aspect of this industry have been sacrificing so hard for so many… Months. Get back to the table and get a fair deal so everyone can get back to work.

He also previously told members that the actors are approaching the 100th day of the SAG-AFTRA strike Rolling Stone This is the longest strike the union has ever held with the Television and Theatrical Agreement, and is also the second-longest strike in the history of the union (the longest being the 2000 SAG strike, which lasted six months).

Brendan Bradley, Paramount’s offensive chief, described the moment as “historic,” adding: “This is an existential moment.” We will not leave without fighting for some kind of victory in every category of workers.