Surprising Twist: Kendrick Sampson's Unexpected Windfall Surpasses Expectations

Kendrick Sampson recently disclosed that he didn't earn more than $100 from his recent residuals checks. In an Instagram post earlier this month, the 35-year-old actor shared his disappointment and expressed his hope for more substantial earnings to help him during this challenging period. The post included a video of Sampson standing on the picket lines outside Warner Bros.

The actor from Insecure, known for his role as Nathan Campbell from 2018 to 2021, revealed that the checks he received were insufficient to cover his expenses.

"However, to my surprise, after receiving a total of 50 checks (yes, FIFTY! FIVE-ZERO), I had to pause as the grand sum amounted to a mere $86," Sampson shared. "This is absolutely ridiculous, considering there are people who are experiencing far greater financial hardships than I am!"

He vowed: “S—t has to change — This is why we strike. The clock is ticking. Let’s see what happens at midnight. #solidarity #WGAstrong .”

Sampson, a successful actor and activist, has been a staunch supporter of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike since its onset in May. In July, he further demonstrated his solidarity by joining the picket lines alongside the SAG-AFTRA union in their fight.

The WGA and SAG-AFTRA unions are currently engaged in labor disputes with the AMPTP, concerning issues such as improved wages, streaming residuals, and safeguards against AI utilization in the entertainment industry. During the ongoing strike, actor Sampson conveyed to The Wrap on July 20 his belief that people are generally unaware that approximately 90 percent of actors are unemployed and a significant majority of them live below the poverty line. Even as a relatively privileged Black actor, Sampson acknowledges his own difficulties in meeting financial obligations.

The star of Something From Tiffany's expressed the importance of considering those who have less experience, fewer credits on their resume, and limited resources, such as the people in their family. Their ultimate goal is to create a better future for these individuals.

Sampson added that entertainers are not protesting solely for their personal pursuits or luxury hobbies. Instead, they are advocating for the future of marginalized communities, particularly Black individuals, and for the preservation of their narratives and stories. Ultimately, their protest aims to improve the overall well-being of their communities.

Earlier that week, Sampson posted an Instagram video showcasing BLD PWR Productions, his production company. The video featured various actors, writers, and producers expressing their apprehensions regarding the prevailing working conditions.

During the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strike in Burbank on July 20, 2023, Kendrick Sampson participated in picketing. In a video recorded on July 17, he passionately expressed his frustration, stating, "They refuse to engage in negotiations until we're financially depleted. But the truth is, we have already been struggling! What do you mean?" Sampson emphasized that the issue at hand isn't merely about undermining a union, but about impacting the lives of individuals.

Sampson, known for his role in How to Get Away With Murder, wrapped up by proudly displaying a residual check worth $27.30. "Do you see these tiny pennies that you've been mailing on the residual checks? The postage stamp costs more than the actual check!" Sampson amusingly remarked.