Dwayne Johnson Contributes ‘Historic’ Donation to SAG-AFTRA Foundation Relief Fund, Says President Courtney B. Vance: ‘It’s a Call to Arms for All of Us’ (EXCLUSIVE)

On July 13, amidst SAG-AFTRA's decision to go on strike, Courtney B. Vance, the president of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, and Cyd Wilson, the executive director, wrote a letter to 2,700 of the union's top-earning actors, highlighting the financial challenges they might face during the work stoppage.

Having experienced a similar situation during the COVID-19 pandemic, where the SAG-AFTRA Foundation provided financial relief to the union's members through its Emergency Financial Assistance Program, Courtney and Cyd were prepared to support actors again during the strike.

Dwayne Johnson's team reached out shortly after receiving the letter, expressing his willingness to help. A phone call between Dwayne, Courtney, and Cyd followed, where the exact amount of Dwayne's generous contribution was kept confidential. Nevertheless, his significant seven-figure donation has the potential to assist thousands of actors, estimated to be between 7,000 and 10,000 members who may require financial aid during the strike.

The SAG-AFTRA Foundation's grants typically offer up to $1,500 per individual member, but exceptional circumstances, such as health issues or severe jeopardy, may allow lifetime members to receive up to $6,000 in emergency financial assistance. Considering the impact of the strike, Dwayne's donation will be a crucial lifeline for many in the acting community.

Reflecting on the financial crisis facing actors during the strike, Courtney and Cyd emphasized that a large portion of SAG-AFTRA members does not meet the threshold to qualify for health insurance, with many struggling to make ends meet even before the strike began. They expressed gratitude for Dwayne's contribution, noting that such support from influential figures in the industry sends a powerful message and encourages others to step up and help as well.

The Foundation's efforts during the strike are in full swing, processing a significantly higher number of requests for financial aid compared to normal times. They recognize the potential long-term impact of the strike on actors' livelihoods and intend to continue providing support beyond its conclusion.

Dwayne Johnson's donation is the most substantial single contribution the SAG-AFTRA Foundation has ever received, and it sets a promising precedent for future fundraising efforts. With the uncertainty surrounding the strike's duration, they aim to be well-prepared to assist the 160,000 SAG-AFTRA performers who may require aid during this challenging period.

In conclusion, Courtney and Cyd expressed gratitude to Dwayne Johnson for his remarkable generosity and urged others to follow suit in supporting their fellow actors during this time of need. The Foundation's Emergency Financial Assistance Program stands ready to provide aid to those on the picket lines, assuring them that the acting community stands united and resilient in the face of these challenges.

For information on the SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s Emergency Financial Assistance Program and how to apply, visit sagaftra.foundation/emergencyassistance, and to support the fund, go to sagaftra.foundation/donate.