NY Women in Film & Television Honors Drescher

New York Women in Film & Television hosted its 44th annual Muse Awards on March 27, celebrating the achievements of honorees SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher, SAG-AFTRA members Alex Borstein, Kyra Sedgwick, Tantoo Cardinal and Millicent Simmonds; and Latasha Gillespie, Michèle Stephenson and Oscar-winner Raney Aronson-Rath.
Drescher was recognized for her leadership during the 2023 $1 billion deal with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.

SAG-AFTRA Executive Vice President Linda Powell accepted the award on behalf of Drescher, who wasn’t able to attend due to her father’s recent death.
Powell read directly from a statement from Drescher, who pointed out personal challenges she faced during the historic 118-day TV/Theatrical/Streaming strike. “I couldn’t escape the misogyny that plagued press coverage of the strike and our negotiations,” she wrote. “It was disgusting, but I refused and will always refuse to conform to masculine expectations.
“Even during the most challenging weeks at that strike, I remained inspired by those thousands who came to the picket lines and raised their voices refusing to allow changing technology and business models to displace their ability to have a career in the performing arts,” she continued. “I was emboldened by thoughts of future generations whose dreams of achieving sustainable livelihoods needed to be protected. As I told our 160,000 SAG AFTRA members, it’s hard to change. We’re in a different era now. And sometimes the best way to create a better world is to refuse to accept anything less. Know your value. Don’t go on sale.”  

Among the industry professionals joining Powell at the event were SAG-AFTRA Vice President, New York and N.Y. Local President Ezra Knight; and Vice President, Los Angeles and L.A. Local President Jodi Long. SAG-AFTRA member and CBS Sunday Morning contributor Nancy Giles was the event emcee. 

New York Women in Film & Television is a nonprofit advocating for equality in the moving image industry. Its work supports women in every stage of their careers by illuminating their achievements, presenting training and professional development programs, awarding scholarships and grants, and providing access to a supportive community of peers.

Photo: SAG-AFTRA New York Local Executive Director Rebecca Damon; SAG-AFTRA Vice President, New York and New York Local President Ezra Knight; SAG-AFTRA EVP and N.Y. Local Vice President Linda Powell; SAG-AFTRA member and CBS Sunday Morning contributor Nancy Giles; SAG-AFTRA Vice President, Los Angeles and Los Angeles Local President Jodi Long.