Theft of Copyrighted Material

The theft of copyrighted motion pictures and TV shows, results in total industry losses estimated in billions of dollars per year. As actors, we know that every time one of our performances is stolen, we lose out on the residuals we rely on to make a living. Global theft of movies and television shows has already cost the U.S. economy more than 140,000 jobs.

Screen Actors Guild fights vigorously on federal, state and international levels to pass anti-piracy measures. While various methods and penalties are implemented, all of the measures are designed to create a significant deterrence to thieves who so freely steal, manufacture and distribute illegally obtained content.

An Important Message from Screen Actors Guild Regarding Content Theft

As you know, Screen Actors Guild has been working hard to raise awareness about the detrimental impact of content theft. We have been meeting with legislators across the country, communicating with members, participating in panel discussions and helping to educate young people about this destructive practice. We are also working in coalition with our union partners at AFTRA, Directors Guild of America and IATSE, as well as the major studios and networks, on all of these efforts.

Today, we are happy to join our entertainment community industry partners to announce a new initiative designed to build strong grassroots support for the fight against content theft. Creative America, a newly formed organization, will provide a gathering place for members of the creative community to learn more about the impact of content theft on their jobs, their benefits and their ability to continue making a living in the entertainment industry.  Please click here to see the Creative America news release being distributed today.

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