Television and movie actors may covet recognition from their peers at the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) more than from anyone else. The SAG is composed solely of actors, and winning a SAG Award is one of the most prestigious prizes in Hollywood. The history of the Screen Actors Guild Awards dates back to its debut in 1995. Focusing on individual and ensemble recognition, the members of SAG know better than anyone that the art of acting is a collaborative process.
The Screen Actors Guild is the largest labor union in the nation that represents working actors. The union was established in 1933 and was instrumental in breaking the historical grip of large studios who forced actors into signing long-term contracts so that they could work. In the 1940s, SAG fought for artists' rights while the digital revolution began to sweep through the entertainment industry.
With more than 20 branches around the country, the Screen Actors Guild represents more than 125,000 members working in film, digital theatrical motion pictures, television, commercials, video games, industrials, Internet and any other new media formats as they are developed. SAG fights to improve working conditions, compensation and benefits and is a powerful voice when it comes to the rights of artists. SAG is also a proud member of the AFL-CIO through the affiliated Associated Actors and Artistes of America and is headquartered in Los Angeles.
Every year prior to the awards, two randomly selected panels, encompassing 2,100 SAG members each, are chosen from across the nation. Their votes decide who the nominees will be on the secret ballots mailed to the full guild membership for final award selection.
Many of the members of SAG go unrecognized at other award shows like the Oscars or Golden Globes. In order to value the ensemble contribution of every member, each year a different group within the membership is singled out for recognition during the awards show. According to the Screen Actors Guild Awards website, these groups include "television and movie stunt ensembles, background singers, dancers, background performers, character actors, regional actors, stunt women, animation voiceover performers, commercial actors and child actors."
One of the highlights in the history of the Screen Actors Guild Awards is the winner of the Life Achievement Award. This performer is recognized not only for their talent but also for nurturing the acting profession's highest ideals. The first winner of this award was George Burns, who accepted it from his good friend, Ann-Margret Olsson.
Recognition for actors and actresses happens beyond the screen and the Oscars. The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, which cover the big and small screen, have been a major...click here for more. |
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