Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1525111
W ith the ratification of the 2023 TV/ Theatrical Contracts, several new gains have been achieved for background actors. These wins include a more than 15% compounded wage increase as well as the first-ever A.I. guardrails that ensure informed consent and compensation for everyone. For the first time, the agreement also increases the number of covered positions for background actors in the West Coast Zones to equal those of the East Coast Zones! This change adds 10,700 days of covered background work annually. While SAG-AFTRA endeavors to have national background jurisdiction — similar to Network Television Code for all contracts — we're pleased to have achieved this important step in the right direction. Those working under the Network Code also achieved gains. The extension to the 2021–2024 Network Code increased pay for background actors and stand-ins working on non-dramatic programs, daytime serials, variety, quiz, game, reality, talk, news, sports programs and promotional announcements by 11%. Several additional provisions are in place for those who bring film, television and streaming series to life. Let's take a look at what's new as well as important things to remember. GET PAID WHAT YOU'RE OWED Imagine you're booked as background talent on a production set on a college campus and the producer asks you to bring several wardrobe items (e.g., yoga pants, skirts, hoodies and cardigans) as "options." Did you know those options count as "changes," and you're entitled to an allowance of $9 per day for the first change and $6.25 for each additional change whether the production uses them or not? 40 SAG-AFTRA | Summer 2024 | sagaftra.org GETTY IMAGES BACKGROUND ACTORS STEP INTO THE SPOTLIGHT Wage increases! Extra pay for stand-ins and wardrobe. Learn about these gains and more.