Dear members,
I usually enjoy reaching out to everyone, however this letter is hard to write. Many of you are already aware, but for those who are not, I am saddened to say that local member Peter Tocco passed away on Feb. 7, 2025.
Peter was an actor, singer, voiceover talent, stunt driver, auto show spokesperson and all-around great guy. I remember meeting him in the 1990s in the lobbies of talent agencies where we gathered for auditions. I was always impressed that he knew everyone in the room and everyone in the room knew him. Smiles and hugs were freely given, and he always asked how you were doing and how your family was. I joked with him once that he was the Mayor of Audition Land.
I was fortunate to work with him on several commercials and corporate educational videos over the years. He was a true professional who showed up to set prepared, knew all his lines, hit his marks each and every time, and made the long days go by quickly with his engaging personality. Whenever I saw Peter in the holding room at the beginning of the day, I knew we were in for some fun!
On a car commercial shoot during the pandemic, we were required to social distance. However, it had been so long since Peter and I had seen each other in person. On multiple occasions that day, he and I were “scolded” by the crew for standing too closely together as we caught up. But Peter was the type of person you just couldn’t help wanting to be in his presence.
Besides being an immensely talented working actor, Peter was a true unionist. He spent over 20 years in union service to SAG and then SAG-AFTRA. Peter started as a local board member and eventually served as the Michigan SAG president. After merger, he became the National Board member for the Michigan Local, a position he held until deciding to step back in 2023. I am so grateful that I witnessed his leadership and service in action for many years; he served as a mentor and role model to me and countless others.
Peter was recognized at the national level as a leader passionate about representing Michigan well and making sure our needs and voices were heard. He was currently serving on two national committees, Honors & Tributes and Professional Representatives, and the last conversation he and I had revolved around the steps we could take next to revive film incentives. Right up until his passing, Peter continued to volunteer his time and talents to serve our union. As news of his passing spread over last weekend, I received many messages, texts and calls from SAG-AFTRA National Board members around the country saddened at his passing, each of them saying how meeting Peter and working with him had been a pleasure.
I’m going to miss seeing Peter’s bright smile and hearing him greet me with, “How’s it going, pal?” each time we talked. I will cherish memories of time spent with him, learning from him and just experiencing his larger-than-life personality. Peter Tocco was the real deal. SAG-AFTRA, and especially the Michigan Local, is better because of him.
Let’s all raise a glass of red wine to Peter Tocco. Thanks for gracing us with your time, talents and friendship for all these years, Pete.
In solidarity,
Eric Wydra
Michigan Local President
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