SAG-AFTRA has responded to allegations that “Tulsa King” star Sylvester Stallone created a “toxic environment” for background actors on the Atlanta set of the Paramount+ series.
“There is no place on any set for derogatory comments about background actors or performers,” a SAG-AFTRA spokesperson said in a statement. “Although we have not been contacted directly regarding the incident on the set of ‘Tulsa King’ in Atlanta, SAG-AFTRA is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of cast members in all productions.
The release also notes that “SAG-AFTRA TV/theater agreements do not cover background actors in Atlanta,” but that the union is “here to provide support when requested.”
A source close to production says the topic was discussed on set by department heads, with emphasis placed on the need for a respectful workplace. Stallone has not commented and a Paramount spokesperson has not responded. Varietyrequest for comments on SAG-AFTRA’s statement.
On Monday, television writer Julie Benson, who is not affiliated with “Tulsa King,” posted screenshots to X/Twitter and wrote, “I received this disturbing news from my friend in Atlanta who focuses on Tulsa King this week. The casting agent quit because she was so disgusted. My friend is anxious about working now.@TheSlyStallone what do you have to say for yourself, sir? Beyond disappointment, I am furious.
One screenshot contained a Facebook post with a blurred username that stated: “While working on TK this week, Sylvester Stallone was observed calling the director and saying ‘What? is this going on with these F**** ugly background (actors)?.’ He and the director called some people terrible names and made fun of them. “Bag of lard,” “fat guy with a cane” and made fun of their weight and disabilities. Sly said, “Bring some pretty young girls at my side.”
The other screenshot featured what appeared to be an email message from “Tulsa King” casting director Rose Locke, who wrote that she visited the set after being “informed of certain things.” She ultimately quit because it was a “clearly toxic environment that I wasn’t comfortable putting myself or background artists in.”
“Tulsa King,” created by “Yellowstone” showrunner Taylor Sheridan, is currently filming its second season in Atlanta. Season 1 of “Tulsa King,” which premiered in November 2022, was filmed in Oklahoma, where the series is set.
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News Source : variety.com
