SAG-AFTRA has elected 54-year-old actor Sean Astin, known for his role in “The Lord of the Rings,” as its new president. He won the election with 79% of the votes, succeeding outgoing president Fran Drescher who led the union during a successful strike last year. The newly elected president promised to secure a fair deal with studios and protect performers’ rights, including AI protections and streaming bonuses based on viewership numbers.
Source: https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2025-09-12/sag-aftra-names-next-national-president