Landon Buford
In an inspiring display of solidarity and generosity, the SAG-AFTRA Foundation has successfully raised over $15 million in the past three weeks for its Emergency Financial Assistance Program. The nonprofit received significant contributions, with numerous A-listers stepping up and making donations of $1 million or more. The outpouring of support from Hollywood’s biggest names has had a profound impact on the foundation’s efforts to aid struggling actors during the ongoing industry-wide strike.
Spearheaded by none other than Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who made a groundbreaking undisclosed seven-figure donation in July, the foundation’s fundraising campaign took flight. This monumental contribution marked the largest single donation the foundation had ever received at the time. Following Johnson’s lead, other renowned personalities from the entertainment industry came forward with their heartfelt donations.
Among the star-studded list of million-dollar donors are the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, Nicole Kidman, Julia Roberts, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Meryl Streep, and Oprah Winfrey. George and Amal Clooney, Luciana and Matt Damon, Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, Hugh Jackman, Deborra-Lee Furness, and Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively also made significant contributions to the relief fund. Their support demonstrates not only their financial commitment but also their advocacy for the welfare of their fellow actors.
Courtney B. Vance, the President of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming response, acknowledging Johnson’s pivotal role in kick-starting the campaign. He also lauded the efforts of Meryl Streep and George Clooney, who not only donated $1 million but also used their influential positions as leaders on the Actors Council to inspire others to give generously.
In a statement, Streep emphasized the importance of actors standing together in the face of powerful corporations seeking to strip away the humanity from their profession. As a three-time Oscar winner, Streep shared her personal journey from humble beginnings as a waiter, cleaner, and typist to the heights of Hollywood fame. She understands the struggles that many actors face, and her commitment to supporting those in need is unwavering.
This year marks a significant moment in the entertainment industry, as both Hollywood actors and writers are on strike simultaneously for the first time since 1960. The strike has led to a halt in scripted production across the industry, impacting numerous members of the Screen Actors Guild, which represents over 160,000 professionals. The strike’s far-reaching consequences underscore the importance of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s Emergency Financial Assistance Program.
Despite the remarkable success of the fundraising campaign, Vance acknowledges that there is still more work to be done. With the strike ongoing and its duration uncertain, the foundation remains dedicated to supporting the community of actors in need. Vance reassures that fundraising efforts will continue, ensuring that actors facing financial hardships receive the support they require during this challenging period and beyond.
In times of crisis and adversity, the strength of a community is revealed by the unity and compassion its members demonstrate. The SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s Emergency Financial Assistance Program has exemplified this spirit, rallying the support of Hollywood’s brightest stars to provide much-needed aid to those facing economic challenges. Through their generosity and commitment to helping others, these A-listers are making a tangible difference in the lives of their fellow actors, proving that solidarity and compassion can create lasting impact in the world of entertainment.
