Quinta Brunson On The Writer’s Strike And The Meaningful Fight For Fair Pay

Quinta Brunson, the creator and star of “Abbott Elementary,” is actively supporting WGA members in their ongoing battle against the AMPTP. As the strike enters its fourth week and the consequences start affecting writers, Brunson emphasizes the importance of staying resilient.

While joining the picket lines, Brunson acknowledges the impact of the strike on people’s livelihoods, stating in a video from WGA, “We’re able to bring a lot of joy to this strike, but it would be ignorant not to acknowledge that people are out of work.” She refers to the various themed pickets, mixers, and impromptu concerts organized to uplift spirits during the strike.

Brunson urges guild members to remember the collective goals they are striving for and emphasizes the significance of unity. She highlights the potential for other unions, such as SAG-AFTRA, to join the cause, as they recently voted to authorize a strike if a new deal is not reached with the studios by June 30, when the current contract expires.

Brunson, who plays Janine Teagues on the sitcom, stresses the need for better pay and improved living conditions, expressing concerns about people’s ability to afford rent and food. She believes that by remaining strong and resolute, the strike can be resolved more quickly, ultimately leading to the attainment of their demands. She reinforces the idea that the fight is worthwhile and they will not walk away empty-handed.

“Abbott Elementary” is just one among many TV shows and projects impacted by the strike. The writers’ room for the ABC comedy was scheduled to reconvene in early May for the show’s third season, which Brunson also contributes to as a writer.