Arrow star Stephen Amell has issued a clarification regarding his previous remarks on the ongoing actors' strike, which generated significant backlash.
The strike, now in its third week, began after the 160,000 member-strong union voted to join striking writers. The writers are advocating for improved compensation and guarantees that their work will not be replaced by artificial intelligence (AI) technology.
Numerous Hollywood stars, including George Clooney, Bryan Cranston, Jessica Chastain, Wendell Pierce, Steve Buscemi, Michael Shannon, Brendan Fraser, and BD Wong, have joined the picket line in support of the strike. Additionally, Dwayne Johnson donated a "record" seven-figure sum to SAG-AFTRA, the labor union representing actors.
Contrary to the prevailing sentiment among his peers, Stephen Amell initially appeared to be against the strike. During a Q&A session at Galaxycon in North Carolina, he expressed his support for the union but stated his disapproval of the striking tactic, viewing it as a reductive approach to negotiations.
Since his initial comments, Amell has faced criticism for his stance, leading him to clarify his position on the matter.
In a recent interview, Stephen Amell expressed his frustration with the ongoing actors' strike, describing the entire situation as "incredibly frustrating." He specifically mentioned that he finds the thinking, particularly with regard to TV shows like the one he stars in, to be myopic.
Following the circulation of Amell's quotes on social media, the actor faced criticism for his views, with many considering them "disappointing." People pointed out that the strike is meant to support jobbing actors who may face financial challenges, rather than established and financially comfortable actors like Amell.
In response to the backlash, Amell took to Instagram to clarify his stance. He explained that his previous comments were not well-articulated and that he does indeed support the strike, despite his initial statement suggesting otherwise.
"I want to address the comments I made this weekend about the strike, as I understand there has been a significant reaction," Amell began his post on social media.
"To prevent any misunderstanding about my thoughts and intentions, I want to provide the actual context of my remarks and clarify my feelings so they are not misinterpreted unintentionally. I recognize that soundbites can be taken out of context, and out of respect for my fellow union members, I feel it's important to set the record straight," Amell stated.
He clarified that when he mentioned "not supporting striking," he meant that he understands the fundamental reasons behind the strike. His use of the word 'support' in that context contradicted his true feelings, as he emphatically stands with his union. While no one enjoys the necessity of striking, Amell emphasized that sometimes it becomes necessary to take such actions.
Regarding his comment about the strike being a "reductive negotiating tactic," Amell explained that he was speaking extemporaneously for over an hour and that he, as an actor, tends to express emotions. He acknowledged that the issues at hand are far from simple, and he appreciates the complexities of the job performed by the union's leadership.
Amell further admitted that he may not have been clear with his final point and called it a potential inarticulate shoutout to the crew and cast, who hold great importance in his life.
In conclusion, the actor sought to provide clarity on his statements, recognizing the intellectual understanding of the strike's reasons while acknowledging the emotional frustrations experienced by everyone involved.
He continued by expressing his sadness about not having the opportunity to celebrate a show that everyone involved, including himself, put tremendous effort into. Stephen Amell reiterated his desire to ensure that his thoughts and intentions are not misinterpreted.
Amell drew a comparison to the proverb "the road to hell is paved with good intentions" and acknowledged that some of the commentary he received implied that people wished him to visit such a place. Despite the criticism, he made it clear that he stands with his union and supports the strike. He humorously urged people not to throw any hard fruit at him if they see him on a picket line.
After his initial comments, Amell faced severe backlash on social media. Some criticized him for his apparent lack of empathy, given his financial position, while others accused him of being disconnected from the struggles faced by his peers in the industry.
One user, @MaceAhWindu, expressed sarcasm, stating, "It must be nice to be in a financial position where you can have a s*** take like this," while @s_prevot commented, "Your peers are fighting for their livelihoods and can barely put food on the table while you sit with your millions like 'wah this is so frustrating'."
Another user, @iReinaValentine, humorously suggested that SAG should propose a rule that allows AI to use actors' likeness without consent except for Stephen Amell.
Despite the criticism, Stephen Amell remains firm in his support for his union and its cause.
On another note, @ChainsawReacts expressed their opinion, acknowledging that Stephen has the right to his own perspective. However, they pointed out that he is not one of the actors who are facing financial struggles. Having led the show Arrow for 8 years and currently leading Heels, along with multiple convention appearances each year, Stephen's financial situation appears stable. The strike, according to @ChainsawReacts, is aimed at supporting actors and writers who are not as fortunate as he is.
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