Actors Celebrate Themselves with a New Name

The Screen Actors Guild Awards is undergoing a significant rebranding, shifting its name to The Actor Awards. This change emphasizes the focus on actors, as the trophy itself is known as "The Actor." The new name aims to clarify the show's purpose for a global audience.

A Clearer Focus for a Global Audience

The rebranding was announced ahead of the 32nd ceremony, scheduled for 1 March 2026. Jon Brockett, the executive producer, explained that the new name helps viewers instantly understand the show's focus. JoBeth Williams, awards committee chair, added that the name change makes it easier for international audiences to recognize the event.

Boosting Visibility Before the Oscars

The Actor Awards trophy enhances its winners' visibility before the Oscars. Similar to the Emmys, Grammys, and Golden Globes, the Oscars are more famous by their trophy names than the organizations behind them.

Reflecting the Merger and Union Representation

The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (Aftra) merged in 2012. The new name reflects this merger and aligns with the trophy's name. The union represents about 160,000 members.

New Leadership for Sag-Aftra

Recently, Sean Astin, known for "The Lord of the Rings," was elected as the new leader of Sag-Aftra. He takes over from Fran Drescher, who led the organization through the Hollywood strikes of 2023.