Renowned actors George Clooney and Jessica Chastain, both Oscar winners, have joined the chorus of high-profile figures backing the United States union in its fight following the announcement of a major Hollywood strike. The strike deemed a significant turning point in the industry, was declared on Thursday in Los Angeles after failed negotiations with the American Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) for new contracts.
On the first day of the strike, notable personalities stood in solidarity on picket lines, while many others voiced their support through online platforms. George Clooney, in a statement shared with the PA news agency, stated that the industry had reached an inflexion point and emphasized the need for change to ensure actors and writers can sustain their livelihoods. He expressed his support for the union, stating that the journey for change starts now.
Jessica Chastain, who won the Best Actress Academy Award last year, affirmed the union’s determination not to back down. On Twitter, she criticized the AMPTP for refusing to reach a fair deal on television, theatrical, and streaming work. Chastain stated that they were unafraid of a fight and that the union, Sag-Aftra, was now on strike.
Alec Baldwin applauded the union for calling the strike, emphasizing the need to protect its members. In an Instagram video, he expressed solidarity, acknowledging the desire to avoid a strike but emphasizing the importance of rectifying the unfair contracts under which they currently work.
Josh Gad, known for his voice work as Olaf in Disney’s Frozen movies, acknowledged that strikes are not taken lightly but emphasized their necessity when glaringly required.
Addressing the impact of the work stoppage caused by the strikes, Gad stressed that the action was about fighting for what is right. He discussed the importance of protecting the industry from the potential cost savings and ease of use offered by artificial intelligence technology.
Fran Drescher, president of Sag-Aftra, was pictured on the picket lines, delivering an impassioned speech during the strike announcement. She highlighted the gravity of the situation and the need for unity. Bob Odenkirk, star of Better Call Saul, commended Drescher’s powerful statement, expressing his support for Sag-Aftra and the Writers Guild of America (WGA).
Cynthia Nixon, renowned for her role in Sex and the City, expressed her pride in standing with Sag-Aftra and the writers’ guilds in demanding a fair share of the studios’ record-breaking profits. She voiced confidence in their ability to achieve victory in the strike.

