Exclusive: Billy Porter's Shocking Move Amidst Hollywood Strikes - Could This Signal the End of an Era?

Billy Porter. S Meddle/ITV/Shutterstock

Billy Porter, 53, revealed in an interview with the Evening Standard that he is making a significant lifestyle adjustment to cope with the ongoing strikes by the WGA and SAG-AFTRA. To ensure financial stability during this uncertain period, Porter has decided to sell his house. As an artist, Porter acknowledges the financial challenges, explaining that until he achieves significant financial success, he has to live paycheck to paycheck.

Porter revealed that his plans to star in a new movie and TV show were initially set for September. However, due to the ongoing strikes, none of these projects will be materializing.

Addressing an article published by Deadline in July, Porter humorously remarked, "So, to the person who suggested starving us until we have to sell our apartments, well, congratulations, you've already succeeded in starving me out." This comment referred to the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTPT), the association representing TV and film production companies, who were reported to have no intentions of negotiating with the Writers Guild of America (WGA) until union members faced the risk of losing their homes.

Porter disclosed that contrary to the belief that all actors are wealthy, this is not the reality for the majority of SAG-AFTRA members (the labor union representing the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists).

"People often assume we have privilege. Yet, we receive measly six-cent checks as compensation," he expressed, referring to the minimal residuals actors earn from streaming services. "It genuinely saddens me."

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In May, the WGA became the first to go on strike when they failed to establish a new contract agreement with the AMPTP. Following suit two months later, SAG-AFTRA also authorized a strike as the AMPTP disregarded their concerns regarding fair wages, the utilization of artificial intelligence, the absence of residuals from streaming services, and various other issues raised during their contract negotiations. The strikes, which commenced during the summer, have prompted numerous actors to reveal their meager earnings despite their involvement in successful TV series.

"In the late 1950s and early 1960s, a system was established to ensure proper compensation for artists through residual payments. This allowed the two percent of working actors, totaling 150,000 individuals in our union, who consistently work to be fairly compensated," Porter explained. "However, with the advent of streaming, there is currently no contract in place for this platform. Additionally, streaming companies are not required to be transparent with their viewership figures, unlike traditional Nielsen ratings. This lack of transparency has made it difficult for workers to receive fair payment." Porter emphasized the need for streaming companies to adapt to the changing landscape of media consumption and ensure fair compensation for their employees.

Referring to the recent controversial comments made by Disney CEO Bob Iger regarding the strike and our demand for a living wage, Porter expressed dismay at his statement, highlighting the stark contrast between his $78,000 daily earnings and our struggle. Frustrated and enraged, Porter refrained from responding, but conveyed a strong sentiment of disapproval by choosing not to engage. Meanwhile, in London, Porter has temporarily distanced themselves from the situation, but intends to actively participate in the picket lines upon returning.