Union Myth #6

Highly doubtful.

FACT: Union jobs provide lucrative financial gains that non-union jobs do not. Want solid proof? A legacy SAG advertiser attempted to produce three national non-union commercials, paying buy-outs to the performers several years ago.The buy-out paid $1,000. After legacy SAG intervened, the union contract paid over $16,000! Would you rather be bought out or paid up?  

FACT: Non-union actors may get some exposure for doing non-union low budget films and webisodes, but these productions do little or nothing for their pocketbook. And, if that non-union project hits it big, without a contract those actors won’t see a dime.

FACT: You deserve to make money as an actor! Typically, the amount of money a production spends on acting talent is less than 5% of the production budget, which doesn’t even include dollars for advertising, distribution, etc. As the months and years go by and producers continue to make money off of your image, why shouldn’t you?  

Questions? Call your local union office at (214) 363-8300.

SAG-AFTRA leaders in Texas realize many myths exist about being a union member in a ‘right-to-work’ state. To bust these myths and arm you with the facts, a Top 10 Myths list has been created. These myth-busting facts also include additional resources to help you steer your career in the right direction.

We believe you will find this information helpful and want you to join us - your fellow members - to grow the union market in our community. To find out how you can be a part of our Texas Leadership Think Tank, please contact Trish Avery at trish.avery@sagaftra.org.