SAG-AFTRA Pays $1.5M Streaming Bonus to About 700 Performers

SAG-AFTRA said roughly $1.5 million from its streaming bonus distribution fund will go to about 700 performers — fewer than 1% of the union's more than 160,000 members — according to Deadline. The payments cover work on high-budget SVOD projects released in 2024.

Recipients are expected to receive details in the coming weeks, alongside changes to the union's health plan. The union said some improvements were made for senior members with extensive retiree health credits.

SAG-AFTRA president Sean Astin addressed members in a 12-minute video message on Monday, as concerns over health coverage have mounted publicly. Drake Bell said last week that he lacks health insurance because he did not reach the required $28,933 in annual union-contracted income. Cecily Strong recently complained about hikes in mental health coverage prices under the union's insurance plans, and Jack Haven and Heather Matarazzo recently said they would lose health insurance without more work soon.

The union also said it will return to its regular membership policy at the end of October, meaning members not caught up on dues will be terminated.

Background

In 2023, SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America pushed for a streaming success bonus during negotiations with the AMPTP, leading to a dual strike that lasted half of the year. Earlier in 2026, SAG-AFTRA agreed to deep cuts in exchange for an infusion to the health fund in negotiations with the studios.