SAG-AFTRA Statement on Casting Tapes Auction

LOS ANGELES (April 2, 2013) --  SAG-AFTRA considers the right of performers to control the use of their image to be of utmost importance and we vigorously protect those rights. Our collective bargaining agreements include protections for performers against exploitation of audition and interview tapes, which must be erased upon performers’ request. Failure to comply with such a request will result in formal legal action pursuant to the agreements. Unauthorized use of audition and interview footage may also result in claims against producers and casting directors under right of publicity and/or privacy laws.

"Auditions are not public performances, and under SAG-AFTRA collective bargaining agreements performers are entitled to expect them to remain private. SAG-AFTRA, on behalf of our members, has requested that Julien's Auctions discontinue the sale of these private tapes,  and they have  agreed to do so immediately," said SAG-AFTRA General Counsel Duncan Crabtree-Ireland.