What Does It Mean to Go Fi-Core as an Actor?

By Webmaster

  • What Does It Mean to Go Fi-Core as an Actor?

    This decision comes with specific implications that every actor should understand

    (By Jim Webb)

    (Photo: Andrea Piacquadio | Pexels)

    RELATED:


    What is Financial Core?


    What is a Fi-Core Actor


    What does it mean to go Fi-Core as an actor?


    Can Fi-Core actors work during a strike?


    Who are the most famous Fi-Core actors?


    What are the pros and cons of being a Fi-Core actor?


    How does an actor become a Fi-Core?


    Why are Fi-Core actors called scabs?


    The decision to join unions like SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) can significantly impact an actor’s career. However, not all actors remain fully unionized. Some choose to go “Fi-Core,” short for “Financial Core.” This decision comes with specific implications that every actor should understand before making the switch. So, what does it mean to go Fi-Core as an actor, and what are the consequences?

    Understanding Fi-Core

    “Fi-Core” stands for “Financial Core” status and refers to a legal option available to unionized workers, including actors in SAG-AFTRA, which allows them to resign from full union membership while still paying a portion of union dues. Essentially, it permits actors to work both union and non-union jobs. This option emerged from a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that allows workers to avoid full union membership while still contributing to the cost of collective bargaining and other union services that benefit them.


    RELATED: What is a Fi-Core Actor?


    Fi-Core vs. Full Union Membership

    (Photo: Cottonbro Studio | Pexels)

    Actors who are full members of SAG-AFTRA enjoy a range of benefits. These include access to healthcare, pensions, and exclusive union-only auditions for projects like major films, TV shows, and commercials. Full members are also bound by the union’s rules, meaning they can only work on union-approved projects.

    In contrast, an actor who goes Fi-Core is no longer a full member of the union. While they continue to pay “core” dues for collective bargaining, they lose many of the union’s benefits. However, they gain the freedom to work on both union and non-union projects without fear of penalties.

    Reasons Why Actors Go Fi-Core

    (Photo: Ron Lach | Pexels)

    There are several reasons why an actor might decide to go Fi-Core:

    More Job Opportunities: Union rules limit actors to working on SAG-AFTRA-approved projects. By going Fi-Core, actors can accept non-union gigs, which are often more abundant in smaller markets. This can help actors secure more work and gain more experience.

    Financial Considerations: Non-union gigs may offer more consistent work for actors who are still trying to establish themselves, allowing them to make a living while building their careers.

    Freedom and Flexibility: Some actors choose Fi-Core to have more control over their career trajectory, allowing them to accept work that might not align with union guidelines but fits their personal goals.

    The Downsides of Going Fi-Core

    (Photo: Mike van Schoonderwalt)

    While going Fi-Core provides flexibility, it also comes with several drawbacks that actors should weigh carefully:

    Loss of Union Privileges: Fi-Core actors lose access to many of SAG-AFTRA’s benefits, such as healthcare and pension plans. They are also excluded from union meetings, cannot vote on union matters, and may face isolation from the union community.

    Industry Stigma: The decision to go Fi-Core is controversial, and some producers, directors, and fellow actors view Fi-Core status negatively. It can be seen as undermining union solidarity and weakening the bargaining power that unions rely on to secure fair wages and working conditions. Some union members may even refuse to work with Fi-Core actors.

    Limited Access to Top Projects: Although Fi-Core actors can work on both union and non-union projects, they are often barred from auditioning for major union-only productions. This can restrict access to some of the most prestigious and lucrative acting roles in Hollywood.

    Legal Protections for Fi-Core Actors

    (Photo: Vanessa Garcia | Pexels)

    It’s important to note that Fi-Core actors still retain legal protections. For example, they are protected by the union’s collective bargaining agreements, which include minimum pay standards and protections against workplace exploitation on union sets. However, these protections are not extended to non-union jobs, which may come with fewer safety measures and lower pay.

    Returning to Full Union Status

    Once an actor goes Fi-Core, they have essentially resigned their full membership, and SAG-AFTRA does not make it easy to return. Rejoining the union as a full member can be complicated, and in some cases, it may be impossible, depending on the actor’s individual circumstances.

    Examples of Actors Who Have Gone Fi-Core

    Fi-Core is more common among actors working in commercial markets, regional theater, or non-union indie films. While not many high-profile actors openly discuss their Fi-Core status due to the stigma attached to it, some notable actors have quietly made the switch to balance their work between union and non-union projects.

    Going Fi-Core as an actor is a personal decision that comes with both benefits and risks. Actors considering this option should weigh the potential for increased work against the loss of union protections and community support. While Fi-Core may offer more immediate flexibility, full union membership can provide long-term security and access to higher-quality roles.

    Recommended Posts

  • Ad

  • What is the number one acting school in the world?

    What is the number one acting school in the world? A global look at the most prestigious institution for aspiring actors (By Carmichael Phillip) (Photo: Andrea Piacquadio | Pexels) The Juilliard School: A…

    Is actor gender neutral?

    Is actor gender neutral?   Exploring the evolving language of performance in the entertainment industry   (By Carmichael Phillip) (Photo: Cottonbro | Pexels) The Origins of the Word ‘Actor’ The word “actor” comes…

    What do Broadway actors eat before a show?

    What do Broadway actors eat before a show? Fueling the Spotlight: Meals and Snacks That Power Stage Performers (By Carmichael Phillip) (Photo: Pixabay | Pexels) Why Nutrition Matters on Broadway Performing on Broadway…

    Is SAG-AFTRA Just for Actors?

    Is SAG-AFTRA Just for Actors? Exploring the diverse membership and responsibilities of the powerful entertainment union (By Tonya Tannenbaum) (Photo: Kaboompics.com | Pexels) Understanding What SAG-AFTRA Is SAG-AFTRA, or the Screen Actors Guild…

    Who is the most expensive actor to hire?

    Who is the most expensive actor to hire? Exploring the highest-paid stars in Hollywood and what makes them worth the price (By Jim Webb) (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson) What Makes an Actor “Expensive”…

  • Ad

  • Does it cost money to audition for a movie?

    Does it cost money to audition for a movie? Understanding the realities, scams, and secrets of auditioning in Hollywood and beyond (By Jim Webb) (Photo: Karolina Grabowska | Pexels) The Basic Rule: Legitimate…

    Who pays actors for movies?

    Who pays actors for movies? Unpacking the financial structure behind film acting salaries (By Jim Webb) (Photo: Karolina Grabowski | Pexels) The Role of Film Studios in Actor Compensation When it comes to…

    Why Do Actors Do Short Films?

    Why Do Actors Do Short Films? The Benefits of Short Films for Actors and the Industry (By Javier Guerra) (Photo: Le Minh | Pexels) Introduction: The Rise of Short Films in the Industry…

  • Ad

  • How Do Short Actors Look Tall?

    How Do Short Actors Look Tall? The Tricks, Techniques, and Camera Magic That Create the Illusion of Height (By Javier Guerra) (Photo: Pavel Danilyuk | Pexels)   Why Height Matters in Hollywood In…

    What is a Typical Day for a Broadway Actor?

    What is a Typical Day for a Broadway Actor? An inside look into the demanding schedule and vibrant life on Broadway (By Carmichael Phillip) (Photo: Cottonbro | Pexels) Morning Preparations: Early Wake-Up and…

    What is the salary of a stage actor?

    What is the salary of a stage actor? Breaking down pay scales, unions, and income challenges in the world of live theatre (By Jim Webb) (Photo: Pitt Rom | Pexels) Understanding the Broad…

    Do Actors Pay for Flights?

    Do Actors Pay for Flights? An Insight into the Travel Arrangements for Actors During Filming (By Ray Reese) (Photo: Adrienn | Pexels) How Do Travel Costs Work for Actors? When it comes to…

    How do I know if I’m a good actor?

    How do I know if I’m a good actor? Is your performance leaving a lasting impact on your audience? (By Tonya Tannenbaum) (Photo: Andrea Piacquadio | Pexels) What is the Measure of a…

  • Ad

  • Do actors still get paid for deleted scenes?

    Do actors still get paid for deleted scenes? Exploring the world of compensation for scenes that never make the final cut (By Ray Reese) (Photo: Cottonbro Studio | Pexels) Yes, Actors Still Get…

    Can an Actor Be Fired?

    Can an Actor Be Fired? Exploring Termination in the World of Entertainment (By Ray Reese) (Liza Summer | Pexels) Yes, Actors Can Be Fired — Here’s Why In the high-stakes world of film…

    Am I Too Old to Be an Actress?

    Am I Too Old to Be an Actress? Exploring the Opportunities and Realities of Starting an Acting Career Later in Life (By Jim Webb) (Photo: The Pham | Pexels) The Age Question: A…

  • Ad

  • Do Actors Work on Sundays?

    Do Actors Work on Sundays? Exploring the Demands of an Actor’s Schedule in Theater, Film, and TV (By Jim Webb) (Photo: Joel Filipe | Unsplash) The Short Answer: Yes, Actors Often Work on…

    How Much Do Actors Make for Commercials?

    How Much Do Actors Make for Commercials? (By Carmichael Phillip) (Photo: Cottonbro Studios | Pexels) RELATED TOPICS: How Much Do Actors in Super Bowl Commercials Make? Actors have long been known to earn…

    How Much Do Guest Stars Get Paid?

    How Much Do Guest Stars Get Paid? (By Jim Webb) (Photo: Sharon McCutcheon/Unsplash) RELATED TOPICS: How Much Do Actors Get Paid? Are Actors Paid for Table Reads? Do Actors Get Paid for Rehearsals?…

    What Are the 17 Comedies Shakespeare Wrote?

    What Are the 17 Comedies Shakespeare Wrote? (By Carmichael Phillips) (William Shakespeare) RELATED TOPICS: 10 Facts About Shakespeare William Shakespeare, widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language, has…

    Do Actors Get Paid Every Time Their Movie Is on TV?

    Do Actors Get Paid Every Time Their Movie Is on TV? (By Daniel Suttice) (Photo: Andrea Piacquadio | Pexels) RELATED TOPICS: Do Equity Actors Get Paid for Rehearsals? Do Parents of Child Actors…

  • Ad