Production of the Formula 1 Hollywood movie featuring Brad Pitt has come to a halt due to a strike by a major actors union.
The film, centered around the fictional ‘APX GP’ Formula 1 team and its drivers, had a significant presence at the recent grand prix at Silverstone. However, the actors union, Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), has initiated strike action, leading to the shutdown of production. Brad Pitt, who plays the lead role of Sonny Hayes, is a member of the union and has joined the strike.
The strike was called in support of the ongoing strike by the Writers Guild of America (WGA), which began in May. The WGA members voted to strike due to unresolved issues with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). The strike has gained significant support, including from President Joe Biden, former President Barack Obama, and numerous unions and professional bodies worldwide.
SAG-AFTRA, representing over 100,000 actors and performers, has also initiated strike action after failing to reach an agreement with the AMPTP. Concerns over reduced income, streaming service royalties, and AI exploitation were cited as reasons for the strike. The strike has immediately affected several major movie productions, including the Formula 1 film, the Gladiator sequel, and a new installment in the Mission Impossible franchise.
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