SAG-AFTRA President Sean Astin Addresses AI Concerns and Union Leadership Ahead of Studio Negotiations

In a wide-ranging interview with The Associated Press, newly elected SAG-AFTRA president Sean Astin discussed the pressing challenges facing actors today, particularly the growing threat of artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry. As the union prepares for its first negotiations with studios and streamers since the landmark 2023 strike, Astin’s leadership will be closely watched by the industry’s 160,000 performers.

The “Lord of the Rings” and “Goonies” star highlighted how concerns about AI predated last year’s contentious labor stoppage. “I think the members knew years before, at least like two years before the 2023 negotiation, that artificial intelligence was coming,” Astin said. “And it was coming in a very comprehensive way, and it could cost jobs.”

He emphasized that AI threats were recognized early within union leadership circles, becoming “one of the premier strike issues” during negotiations. The situation has only grown “graver” from a labor perspective, according to Astin, suggesting AI protections will remain a central focus in upcoming contract talks.

Astin brings a unique perspective to his leadership role, having grown up watching his mother, Patty Duke, serve as SAG president in the 1980s. He recalled her frustration with board dynamics, quoting her as saying, “All these actors are in the boardroom wanting to play the part of a board member, instead of actually getting something done.”

The new president also praised his predecessor Fran Drescher, whose inclusive leadership style during the prolonged 2023 strike received widespread acclaim from members. “Fran did a great job of letting all of the different people from the different sort of philosophical or political groups and schisms in our organization be heard,” Astin explained.

He credited Drescher’s approach to conflict resolution, which centered on creating a safe environment where diverse voices felt heard. “Fran put that intention on the room, it worked, and the results were very clear to all of the members,” Astin said, referring to the substantial gains achieved in the final contract settlement.

Addressing recent changes to the union’s awards show branding – from “SAG Awards” to “Actor Awards” – Astin offered practical justification for the decision. The change was driven by Netflix metrics showing international viewers were unfamiliar with the SAG acronym. “You call it the Actor Awards? People are going to know what it is,” he explained, acknowledging that the rebrand might disappoint those attached to the 30-year tradition.

On a lighter note, Astin discussed the possibility of a “Goonies” legacy sequel, a project many fans have anticipated for decades. He deferred to executive producer Steven Spielberg as “the decider” and writer Chris Columbus as the driving creative force behind any potential follow-up.

“The audience really wants to see what happens to the people they know,” Astin said, suggesting that most of the original cast would likely participate in a continuation of the beloved 1985 adventure film. Unlike many reboots that introduce entirely new casts, Astin believes a “Goonies” sequel would benefit from reuniting the original stars.

As SAG-AFTRA approaches its next negotiating cycle with major studios and streaming platforms, Astin’s leadership will be tested against the backdrop of rapidly evolving technology and industry economics. The union’s ability to secure further protections against AI exploitation while addressing ongoing concerns about compensation and working conditions will determine whether the gains of 2023 can be maintained and expanded under his watch.