Alyssa Milano Defends GoFundMe Campaigns for Late Actors

Following the recent deaths of actors James Van Der Beek and Eric Dane, separate GoFundMe campaigns were established by their families to support their children. The campaigns faced significant backlash, with critics questioning the need for financial assistance for individuals perceived as wealthy. Alyssa Milano, a fellow actor, publicly addressed this criticism, emphasizing the changing financial landscape of the entertainment industry.

NewsNation

In her Substack, Milano expressed her outrage over the negative reactions to the GoFundMe campaigns. She highlighted that many comments accused the families of seeking funds despite their perceived elite status. Milano argued that the traditional financial models that once supported actors—such as syndication checks and long-term contracts—have largely diminished. She noted, “Residuals from streaming platforms are typically fixed payments, not tied to reruns in the way network syndication once was.” This shift has left many actors without the financial stability they once enjoyed.

NewsNation

Milano pointed out that the majority of members of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) do not earn enough from acting to qualify for union health insurance. She stressed that visibility in the industry does not equate to financial security, stating, “Most working actors are middle class at best. Many are working class.” The impact of the pandemic and the rise of artificial intelligence in the industry have further complicated financial prospects for actors.

NewsNation

Milano emphasized that the GoFundMe campaigns are not merely about financial aid but represent a community's response to grief and loss. She noted that families facing sudden illness or death often seek tangible support during unstable times. “That choice does not signal elitism. It signals love,” she stated, reinforcing the notion that the campaigns are a reflection of care and solidarity rather than a plea for charity from the wealthy.

NewsNation

The backlash against the GoFundMe campaigns for James Van Der Beek and Eric Dane has sparked a broader conversation about the financial challenges faced by actors in today's entertainment landscape. Milano's defense highlights the need for empathy and understanding regarding the realities of the industry, where even those who have achieved fame can experience financial vulnerability.

NewsNation