Freelance casting assistants in New York and Los Angeles are making a bold move to unionize with the Teamsters, a major labor union in the entertainment industry. With nearly 150 casting assistants backing the initiative, they are seeking recognition from the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers and Netflix.
The Teamsters, known for representing casting directors and associates, are now looking to expand their representation to include casting assistants. These assistants play a crucial role in the production process, and the union believes they deserve the same protections, benefits, and compensation as other members of the casting department.
Lindsay Dougherty, the leader of Teamsters Local 399 and director of the Teamsters Motion Picture Division, expressed support for the casting assistants’ efforts, stating that it is only fair for them to seek representation and fair treatment. By unionizing, the casting assistants hope to secure better working conditions and rights in the industry.
The move to unionize comes as a response to the growing recognition of the importance of casting assistants in the entertainment industry. The Teamsters’ efforts to represent these workers demonstrate a commitment to ensuring that all members of the casting department are treated fairly and have a voice in negotiations with major Hollywood companies.
As the casting assistants push for unionization, industry stakeholders, including the AMPTP and Netflix, have been contacted for comment. This development marks a significant step towards improving working conditions and rights for freelance casting assistants in the entertainment industry. Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story.