“The Lord of the Rings” and “Rudy” star Sean Astin has been elected the new president of the actors’ union – SAG-AFTRA.
Astin will preside over the 160,000-member union alongside running mate and “Star Trek: Picard” co-star Michelle Hurd as secretary-treasurer,
Astin reportedly secured nearly 80% of the voice, easily coming ahead of opponent Chuck Slavin of just over 20%. Hurd landed 65% compared to opponent Peter Antico at 35%. Voter turnout however was low at 17.3% (down from the recent high of 26.5% in 2021).
Astin said in a statement: “Now is a time for optimism and creativity. I am thrilled that the members have allowed me to lead our storied organization out of this challenging moment and into a future defined by confidence, progress and fierce advocacy. I’m excited to get to work.”
He takes over from incumbent president Fran Drescher, who opted not to run for re-election. Astin and Hurt served as members of the 2023 negotiating committee during the strikes.
Astin also takes on a role that his mother Patty Duke was elected to the post exactly four decades ago in 1985.
Source: THR
