There is now a feud between SAG-AFTRA and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
The 2019 SAG Awards execs are accusing the Oscars head honchos of using “extraordinary and unwarranted pressure” to keep actors and actresses from presenting at January 27th’s SAG Awards in order to have them appear on February 24th’s Academy Awards ceremony.
“We have received multiple reports of these activities and have experienced firsthand the Academy’s graceless pressure tactics and attempts to control the awards show talent pipeline. Awards season is a very special time when actors and actresses are being appropriately celebrated and recognized for the outstanding quality of their work. We would expect the Academy to honor these goals,” SAG-AFTRA said in a statement (via THR).
“This self-serving intimidation of SAG-AFTRA members is meant to limit their opportunities to be seen and honor the work of their fellow artists throughout the season. Actors should be free to accept any offer to participate in industry celebrations. The apparent attempt by the Academy to keep our members from presenting on their own awards show is utterly outrageous and unacceptable. The SAG Awards supports their union’s operations and important charitable assistance programs that provide valuable support to performers,” the statement continued. “We call on the Academy to cease this inappropriate action.”
The Academy has not yet responded.
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