Sean Astin Elected SAG-AFTRA President, Succeeding Fran Drescher
Sean Astin, best known for his role in “The Lord of the Rings,” has been elected as the new national president of SAG-AFTRA, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. He will succeed Fran Drescher, who led the union through a high-profile strike in 2023.
Astin's Victory and Platform
Astin secured 79% of the vote, defeating Chuck Slavin. His running mate, Michelle Hurd, was elected as secretary-treasurer with approximately 65% of the vote. Astin ran under the banner of "The Coalition," uniting members from Membership First and Unite For Strength, two prominent political groups within the union. He emphasized the need for continued AI protections and strategies to keep productions within the United States.
Key Priorities and Challenges Ahead
As president, Astin will lead the 160,000-member performers union into upcoming contract negotiations with the major studios, represented by the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) in 2026. His key priorities include securing a fair deal with the studios, addressing concerns around artificial intelligence (AI), and navigating the changing landscape of the film and television industry, including industry consolidation and the movement of productions overseas.
Fran Drescher's Legacy and the Streaming Residuals Fund
Outgoing president Fran Drescher led the union through a 118-day strike during the last contract negotiations, securing AI protections and streaming bonuses based on viewership numbers. One of Drescher's key achievements was pushing for the creation of a Success Bonus Distribution Fund to distribute residuals to performers on streaming shows, which will be available to stunt riggers, stand-ins, and background actors. The union said further details about this fund and how it will be dispersed are to be released in the coming weeks.
Industry Reaction and Future Negotiations
The AMPTP congratulated Astin on his election, stating, "We look forward to working with President Astin to address the issues most important to SAG-AFTRA performers while promoting stability and opportunity across our industry.” Astin stated that he will approach negotiations with "an open mind and an open heart," while ensuring the dignity and legitimate needs of SAG-AFTRA members are understood and met in the near future. This task ahead for Astin and SAG-AFTRA comes after the recent actor and writer strikes within the industry, making it a pivotal time for the union.
Voter Turnout and Local Elections
Voter turnout in the national election was lower than in previous years, with approximately 17% of eligible members casting ballots. In 2023 and 2021, the figures were 23% and 26% respectively. In Los Angeles, Joely Fisher was elected as Local president, while in New York, Ezra Knight was elected Local President. Other winners for the board positions within these local areas were also announced.
