Ryan Reynolds and Mandy Moore have voiced their concerns over new guidelines imposed by the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) regarding Halloween costumes this year. The actors, who are members of the union, find the restrictions absurd and they are not alone in their criticism.
Key Takeaway
SAG-AFTRA’s new guidelines on Halloween costumes have caused controversy and drawn criticism from prominent members like Ryan Reynolds and Mandy Moore. The ongoing strike and failed negotiations have heightened tensions within the industry.
Union’s Demand on Halloween Costumes
SAG-AFTRA, which is currently in the midst of a strike, recently issued guidelines for its members that discourage dressing up as characters from struck movies or shows. Instead, they recommend opting for generic costumes such as ghosts, zombies, spiders, or animated TV show characters. The aim is to avoid promoting struck work and to support the ongoing strike.
Celebrities Speak Out
Mandy Moore took to social media to express her disbelief at the costume restrictions, stating that negotiating in good faith should be the priority for the union. Ryan Reynolds, in his signature humorous style, joked about his daughter not being in the union but needing to learn by yelling “scab” at her.
Clarification from SAG-AFTRA
In response to the backlash, SAG-AFTRA clarified that these guidelines only apply to its members and content creators, not their children. The union emphasized that their main objective is to bring the studios back to the negotiating table and reach a fair deal for their members, ending the 100-day-long strike.
No Progress in Negotiations
The frustrations expressed by Reynolds and Moore come in the wake of reports of a setback in negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). The AMPTP reportedly walked away from the table due to the union’s demands, leaving the industry at a standstill with no end in sight.