AIP009 | Why I Choose to Stay a Non-Union Actor – with Eric S. Robertson

Eric S. Robertson
Eric S. Robertson

Actor Eric S. Robertson talks with Ben Hauck all about his choice to stay a non-union actor (for the time being) within SAG-AFTRA jurisdiction. In the interview, Eric covers his acting career aspirations, the choice between money vs. acting work, and the high quality of non-union work these days.  A frequent auditioner with an extensive non-union résumé, he shares his experience asking casting directors whether union status matters as well as his opinions about those who join the union without a reel. Eric details what kind of money he makes as a non-union actor and what supplements his acting income. He also explains what would motivate him to join the union, what career fears he faces should he join, and what other non-union actors should consider before going union. Lastly, Eric reacts to the recent strategy of SAG-AFTRA to call non-union actors like him “pre-members.”

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Eric S. Robertson’s Bio
Eric S. Robertson
Eric S. Robertson

Eric S. Robertson is an actor, writer and director.  Originally from the Toronto area, he started performing in dance and musical theater, working all over Canada and the US.  At age 30, he settled in New York City to attend The Barrow Group School’s two-year acting conservatory program and start a career in film and television.  Since then, he’s stayed proudly non-union and thus has acted on almost every show Discovery ID has to offer.  (He’s also done many other projects, including some indie films.)  Eric has done a slew of commercials and several national print campaigns.  He’s also directed many shows around NYC, including the Off-Broadway show he also wrote, Gym Shorts: The Show.  Eric is a member of the Core Artist Ensemble.  He continues to look for meaning and inspiration in every endeavor, and he wishes the same for you.

Acting Union Links

SAG-AFTRA

Commercials Organizing & Recapture Initiative (CORI) (AKA “#BestInTheBiz”)

Episode 7 of The Acting Income Podcast

Eric’s episode references an earlier AIP interview with Ricardo Lori about working as a fi-core actor. A reference Eric makes in his interview about lucrative non-union pay Ricardo also makes in his.

AIP007 | How Going Fi-Core Affected My Acting Career – with Ricardo Lori

Star Wars References (!)

Wookiee

Ewok

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