SAG-AFTRA, the union representing approximately 160,000 actors, broadcasters, journalists, dancers, DJs, recording artists, and other entertainment and media professionals, has elected Sean Astin as its new president.
The election, held on Friday, saw Astin—widely recognized for his roles in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, “Stranger Things,” and the iconic sports drama “Rudy”—succeed Fran Drescher, who had led the union through a transformative period.
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| Sean Astin |
SAG-AFTRA, formally established through the 2012 merger of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA), advocates for a diverse range of media professionals, including actors, announcers, broadcast journalists, dancers, program hosts, puppeteers, and voiceover artists, according to its official website. The union negotiates contracts, enforces workplace protections, and ensures fair compensation and working conditions for its members across film, television, radio, and digital media.
During Fran Drescher’s presidency, SAG-AFTRA navigated significant challenges, including two high-profile strikes. The first involved film and television actors, who struck in 2023 to demand better pay, residuals from streaming platforms, and protections against the use of artificial intelligence in productions. Astin’s election signals a new chapter for SAG-AFTRA as it continues to advocate for its members in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape. His background as a seasoned actor and his family’s deep roots in the industry position him as a prominent figure to lead the union forward.