SAG-AFTRA Introduces 'I Am An Actor' Podcast Featuring Star-Studded Guests

by : John Lasseter

The Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is debuting an original podcast series titled 'I Am An Actor,' scheduled for release on May 7. This new audio experience, hosted by Actor Awards producer Jon Brockett and accomplished performer Jamie Chung, aims to provide an intimate look into the lives and careers of prominent figures in the acting world. The podcast will feature a diverse lineup of guests, including celebrated names such as Quinta Brunson, Kate Hudson, Mariska Hargitay, and Kerry Washington, offering listeners unique perspectives on their professional journeys and personal growth within the entertainment industry.

Inspired by the traditional opening remarks at the Actor Awards—formerly known as the SAG Awards—where actors recount their career beginnings and the moment they received their SAG-AFTRA membership, each episode of 'I Am An Actor' will commence with the guest sharing their foundational story. These narratives often explore pivotal moments, from significant career breakthroughs to the initial spark that ignited their passion for acting. The podcast seeks to capture the essence of these impactful declarations, providing a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be an actor in today's landscape.

The inaugural season promises a rich tapestry of conversations, delving into the full spectrum of an actor's profession. Episodes will navigate guests' early aspirations, the roles that defined their careers, personal milestones achieved, and their latest endeavors. This comprehensive approach allows for an exploration of the evolving nature of acting and the persistent dedication required to thrive in a demanding industry. Each segment, typically ranging from 40 to 60 minutes, is designed to be a focused, in-depth dialogue with a single guest, ensuring a rich and uninterrupted narrative flow.

The podcast production is a collaborative effort between SAG-AFTRA and the digital content creators at SickBird Productions. New episodes will be made available every Thursday across major podcast platforms, including YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. This accessibility ensures a wide audience can engage with the compelling stories and insights shared by their favorite actors. The production team, including executive producers Jon Brockett, Jade Watson, and Diona DaCosta, along with talent producer Sarah Cowperthwaite and producer Sarah Stoecker, have meticulously crafted a series that aims to resonate with both aspiring and established professionals, as well as general audiences fascinated by the world of acting.

The upcoming 'I Am An Actor' podcast from SAG-AFTRA is poised to become a significant platform for candid discussions with leading talents from film and television. It will offer an unprecedented opportunity to hear directly from actors about their craft, challenges, and triumphs, echoing the profound and often personal testimonies traditionally shared at the Actor Awards. Through these intimate conversations, the series aims to illuminate the varied experiences that shape an actor's life and career, enriching public understanding of the dedication and passion inherent in their work.