Striking Actors Advised Against Halloween Costumes as Iconic Characters

Actors embroiled in a labor strike have been cautioned against donning Halloween costumes resembling beloved film or television characters, as they could inadvertently breach strike regulations. The Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), the union representing actors, has issued guidelines to ensure compliance with strike rules, signaling a change of plans for those contemplating dressing up as, say, Wednesday Addams or Spider-Man.

The union's guidance explicitly urges individuals to opt for costumes inspired by general characters and figures, such as ghosts, zombies, or spiders, rather than specific, struck content. The motive is clear: actors are collectively determined to send a resounding message to their employers currently under strike, signaling their unwillingness to endorse their content without a fair contract. Furthermore, the guidelines advise against sharing costume photos inspired by struck content on social media.

In a somewhat amusing reaction to the guidelines, Ryan Reynolds, famed for his portrayal of Deadpool, humorously pledged to shout 'scab' at his eight-year-old daughter throughout the Halloween night. He cleverly highlighted that although she is not part of the union, she, too, should be made aware of the circumstances.

For context, the term 'scab' is derogatory and denotes someone who crosses a picket line during a strike. Hollywood A-lister George Clooney and other prominent stars have proposed a $150 million contribution to the SAG-AFTRA actors union in an effort to end the ongoing strike. This significant offer, intended to span three years, could contribute to the enhancement of health benefits for union members. Clooney expressed that many of the top earners are eager to be part of the solution, emphasizing the notion that it's fair to contribute more to the union.

The strike, now entering its 100th day, has thrown film and television production into disarray, impacting not only actors but thousands of crew members as well. Discussions aimed at ending the strike broke down recently, casting a shadow over the situation, as studios, streaming services, and production companies suspended negotiations, indicating a substantial gap between the parties involved. The dispute continues to affect the entertainment industry, leaving key stakeholders and industry workers eager for a resolution.