NEW. EXCITING. USEFUL.
After five years of sharing opportunities through The Actors List, we’re evolving. Introducing our weekly newsletter: designed to give actors a high-level view of the industry and how it actually affects them—in under 3 minutes.
The Actors Weekly is a fast, focused briefing on how industry shifts actually impact working performers—and how to use them to navigate your career with more clarity. If you have ideas or want to partner, we'd love to hear from you!
Jeff Kueppers
Editor/Co-Founder
1⃣ CASTING NOTES
SAG-AFTRA proposing a “Tilly Tax”
Formal talks for the 2026 SAG-AFTRA contract began on February 9th. Both the union and the studios are observing a strict "media blackout," meaning no public leaks or comments are expected while they are at the table.
Why it matters: Until there is clarity on the new deal, studios are hesitant to greenlight "risky" new scripted pilots. In the short term, you may see a dip in scripted series development, but a corresponding uptick in commercial and unscripted casting as networks look to fill their production schedules.
The union is also proposing a "Tilly Tax"—a royalty studios must pay into pension and health funds if they choose to use an AI performer instead of a human. This proposal is designed to protect your jobs from being replaced by digital alternatives long-term.
2⃣ THE OPPORTUNITY
Vertical micro-dramas (1-2 minute serialized episodes for mobile apps) are a high-volume hiring hotspot, with platforms like DramaBox and CandyJar shooting 30–40 LA productions monthly with revenues exceeding $100M. Even established names are jumping in—Taye Diggs stars in and EPs the upcoming CandyJar romance “Off Limits & All Mine.”
Why it matters: They are increasingly being used as "scouting grounds" for major streamers who want to see "proof of concept" and built-in audience engagement before casting for larger pilots.
Action Step: Check Backstage and Casting Networks specifically for short-form dramatic series. It’s a fast way to get high-quality footage on your reel in a tightening market.
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3⃣ INDUSTRY MOVES
Warner Bros. Discovery is preparing for a mid-2026 split into "Streaming & Studios" vs. "Global Networks." This likely means a consolidation of casting offices under Channing Dungey (WB TV) and Casey Bloys (HBO/Max).
AI Optimization: Casting offices are increasingly using AI tools like Performeo for shortlisting. Your profiles must be hyper-optimized with keywords (e.g., "Fluent in German," "Pro Ice Hockey") to bypass automated filters.
4⃣ 🎬️ QUICK TAKES
In Memoriam: James Van Der Beek — The "Dawson's Creek" and "Varsity Blues" star passed away at 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer, while raising awareness for early screening. He leaves behind a legacy of authentic, heartfelt performances. Our thoughts are with his wife Kimberly, their six children, and everyone who knew him.
Production Shift: Apple TV+ is officially doubling down on local LA production for its upcoming slate.
Tax Credit Update: California's $750M credit is officially fueling a "Local Hire" surge in LA; update your address and local status on all platforms today.
Intimacy Coordinator Milestone: A historic first contract for ICs goes into effect Feb 22nd, standardizing safety and pay across all new SAG-AFTRA sets.
Biopic Casting: Austin Butler is set to star as Lance Armstrong in a new biopic from Edward Berger.
🗒 CLOSING NOTE
Gif by cbc on Giphy
Starting this new chapter with you all feels a bit like a first day on set—exciting and a little nerve-wracking. But as we watch these SAG-AFTRA talks begin, remember that this industry is a small one, and it’s built on people and relationships, not just headlines. I'm glad to be in the trenches with you. Let’s have a great week.
— Jeff
Until next Thursday,
The Actors Weekly
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