Child Actors Union Dispute: "Not a Priority"

The Agents of Young Performers Association (AYPA) has voiced significant frustration with the Equity union, alleging a lack of prioritization for child actors, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Despite numerous meetings aimed at improving pay and working conditions, AYPA asserts that tangible changes remain elusive. The association points to specific concerns in theatrical and BBC in-house productions, contrasting them with higher rates in larger international productions. They argue that Equity should negotiate better pay and advocate for engagement fees to cover parental expenses like travel and lost earnings.

Equity counters that it actively works to enhance pay and conditions for young performers through collective agreements, including an updated pact with the BBC that mandates rates no lower than half of adult rates and residual entitlements. The union emphasizes that child performers operate within a distinct legal framework compared to adults, and they are committed to investigating breaches of minimum rates and protections. This dispute comes amidst other ongoing negotiations and legal challenges involving Equity.

AYPA, formed two years ago, represents agencies for actors under 18 and has grown in importance, especially following major productions like the HBO Harry Potter series. Beyond pay, AYPA is advocating for enhanced well-being measures, including mandatory therapy and media training for child stars facing intense scrutiny and social media pressures. They also call for producers to inform child actors if their scenes are cut from projects, a practice AYPA deems disrespectful and unacceptable for young performers.