As the Writers’ Strike reaches its halfway point in its third month and the Screen Actors’ Guild prepares to form a picket line, protesters call out content creators and influencers, urging them not to accept offers from these networks and streaming companies. There is now speculation that YouTubers and TikTokers will be sought after as these companies seek alternative ways to add more content to their platforms. Strikers warn them that if they take those jobs during the strike, it will be difficult for them to join any of the guilds in the future.
Superstore star, Franchesca Ramsey stitched a video on TikTok where someone highlighted the heavy impact the upcoming SAG and ongoing WGA strikes will have on content creators. As a SAG and WGA member, Ramsey provided more context and urged content creators not to take jobs or scab during these strikes, especially if they aspire to join these union groups in the future.
Ramsey expanded on this by sharing a letter signed by the president of SAG-AFTRA, which notifies non-union members that if they provide any work or services for a “struck company” during the strike, they will not be admitted to the guild.
Having influencers and content creators with their own shows is not new. Channels like The Annoying Orange and Fred received TV shows on Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network. Meanwhile, Lily Singh (aka iiSuperwomanii) had her own late-night show that lasted for three years. Daniel Howell revealed last year that he received offers from streaming platforms to launch his now-shelved comedy series. And let’s not forget the content creator documentaries that made their way onto Netflix.
These two guilds are on strike because they have not been able to secure a fair deal with streaming and broadcast companies. The Writers’ Guild initiated their strike back in May 2023 because they wanted better wages and opposed the implementation of AI in the Writers Room. At the same time, it was argued that writers were treated as “gig jobs” rather than stable employment.
Meanwhile, according to NBC News, the Screen Actors’ Guild will strike because the union and the streaming giants failed to reach an agreement after four weeks of negotiations. The Guild has acknowledged that this strike will cause financial hardship for those working in the industry.
If influencers and content creators plan to accept these jobs, it’s important to consider who they are working for. These companies have openly admitted that their “endgame” is to subject these strikers to financial strain to the point where they risk losing their apartments and homes. They want these individuals to return, desperate for employment, and accept unfavorable or even worse deals. Do not allow these companies to take advantage of you and your future colleagues during these challenging times. It’s the writers and actors who contribute to the success of these companies.
The Actors’ strike is scheduled to begin this Friday at midnight.