Asking for recognition that most workers in the acting profession struggle financially, Sir Ian McKellan asks that they be included in groups that qualify for a living wage. “Most actors are not rich—they are very poor indeed,” he told RadioTimes.com.
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Telling the UK’s Independent that only one in 20 thespians make over $34,000 per year (U.S.), McKellan asked that actors be included in London’s living wage of £8.80, or approximately $15 per hour (U.S.).
Unlike legislation in cities in the United States, the living wage in London is voluntary, with organizations, such as banks, law firms, and corporations, signing up to participate.
Participants must be accredited by The Living Wage Foundation.The living wage implementation can be phased in to accommodate current contracts; breaking of contracts is not required.
McKellan, best known as Gandalf in Lord of the Rings, is asking London theaters and repertory companies to sign on, explaining that actors often must make choices of roles based on pay and not the quality of the part. Ushers and other theater employees, who have recently been striking for better pay, would also be covered.
Not at all surprising–there’s a reason so many actors also work as waiters, etc.