SAG-AFTRA has responded to allegations that “Tulsa King” star Sylvester Stallone created a “poisonous scenario” for background actors on the Atlanta set of the Paramount+ series.
“There is no room on any set for derogatory comments toward background actors or any performers,” a SAG-AFTRA spokesperson said in a statement. “While we were not immediately contacted about the incident on the set of ‘Tulsa King,’ in Atlanta, SAG-AFTRA is dedicated to the safety and well-being of cast members in all productions.”
The statement also noted that SAG-AFTRA’s “TV/theatre agreements do not cover supporting actors in Atlanta,” but the union is “here to help with guidance if asked.”
A source close to manufacturing says the issue was addressed on set by division heads, with an emphasis on the need for a respectful position. Stallone did not comment and a Paramount spokesperson did not respond. Selectionrequest for comment regarding SAG-AFTRA’s statement.
On Monday, TV author Julie Benson, who is not affiliated with “Tulsa King,” posted screenshots on X/Twitter and wrote: “I got this disturbing news from my friend in Atlanta who has experience with Tulsa King this week. The casting agent backed out because he was so disgusted. My good friend is looking forward to work now.@TheSlyStallone what should you say about yourself, sir? Past disillusioned, I’m furious.”
One screenshot contained a Facebook post with a blurred user title that read: “While working on TK this week, Sylvester Stallone was seen calling the director and saying ‘what the hell is going on with these ugly backgrounds (actors?) ).’ He and the director started naming some horrible names and laughed at them. ‘Band of lard’, ‘fat with a cane’ and made fun of his weight and shortcomings. Sly mentioned, ‘Hire much younger women to be around me.’”
The other screenshot showed what appeared to be an email message from “Tulsa King” casting director Rose Locke, who wrote that she had visited the set after “knowing certain things.” She ultimately resigned because it was a “clearly toxic environment that I did not feel comfortable placing myself or background artists in.”
“Tulsa King,” created by “Yellowstone” showrunner Taylor Sheridan, is currently filming its second season in Atlanta. The first season of “Tulsa King,” which premiered in November 2022, was filmed in Oklahoma, where the show was created.
The post SAG-AFTRA Responds to Derogatory Allegations of ‘Tulsa King’ Extras appeared first on All celebrities.