Porsha Williams Echoes Bethenny Frankel's Call On Reality Stars To Join SAG Strike
By Afouda Bamidele on July 27, 2023 at 10:00 AM EDT
Porsha Williams is throwing her support behind Bethenny Frankel's call to action.
The "Dish Nation" co-host is the latest reality star to join the "Bethenny Ever After" alum in calling on her fellow performers to join the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) strike. The movement, still in its early stages, can significantly impact the reality TV industry and, if successful, could lead to significant changes in how shows are produced and distributed.
Porsha Williams Joins Bethenny Frankel's Rallying Cry
The mother-of-one discussed her new show, "Stars on Mars," and addressed the idea of reality stars forming a union and participating in a strike inspired by Frankel's recent comments.
Williams shared her thoughts on the possibility of demanding better contracts and standing in solidarity with ongoing strikes within the entertainment industry led by SAG-AFTRA and WGA. She told ET:
"I can respect a lot of what Bethenny had to say, actually. I mean, why would I have any problem with her speaking up for reality stars? I just would want some of the reality stars who are currently doing that job to speak up."
The 42-year-old emphasized the challenge of breaking free from specific contracts that may exploit their likeness and focus on drama for entertainment. Williams also mentioned how some brilliant individuals, like herself and Frankel, try to build their brands despite the obstacles presented by these contracts.
The "Daily Pop" guest star highlighted the significant influence that editors of reality shows have on a cast member's narrative, especially in franchises like "The Real Housewives." She mentioned how producers can manipulate the portrayal of individuals, potentially damaging the brands they are trying to build.
The "CarGo" voice star expressed reality stars' dilemma, as their on-screen image may not align with the persona they want to present to their audience, leading fans to question their authenticity and likability.
In a recent Instagram post, Frankel raised an essential question regarding the absence of reality TV stars in the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strike. The 52-year-old expressed her thoughts on the movement, which has caused significant disruptions in Hollywood, leading to the halt of production on numerous films and TV shows.
"The Apprentice: Martha Stewart" runner-up wrote, "Hollywood is on strike. Entertainers are fighting for residuals, and no one will promote anything. Why isn't reality TV on strike?"
Frankel used her experience on "Real Housewives of New York" as an example, revealing, "I have generated millions and millions of dollars in advertising and online impressions being on reality TV and have never made a single residual. So, either I'm missing something, or we're getting screwed too."
The actress noted that they often face negative perceptions despite their significant impact on the entertainment industry, expressing frustration that reality stars are sometimes viewed as the "losers" compared to other entertainers.
She also highlighted how reality TV stars provided entertainment during the writers' strike in 2007/2008, yet they seem to be overlooked when receiving fair treatment. She then called on her co-stars to unite and demand better pay and recognition for their contributions to the entertainment industry.
The 'Porsha's Family Matters' Star Celebrated Her 42nd Birthday In Paris With Fiancé And Daughter
Fans will recall that the television personality's relationship with Simon Guobadia was met with a lot of skepticism. This is probably because, when they announced their engagement, the businessman's divorce from her former RHOA co-star, Falynn, was still playing out in court.
Despite all the drama, there was no sign of it as the lovebirds celebrated her birthday in the romantic city of Paris alongside her daughter, Pilar Jhena. The "Stars on Mars" actress gave her followers a peek of the trip when she uploaded an Instagram reel that started with the trio arriving at the airport before heading to dinner. After which, they hit a club and partied the night away.
The "Bravo's Chat Room" co-host rocked a short green dress that accentuated her curves and legs, sandals on her feet, and a gold bag. The celebrant wished herself a happy birthday in the caption and assured her followers that more pictures would be coming. The footage garnered over 50k likes and heartfelt comments filled with birthday wishes and prayers for the entrepreneur.
