Sean Astin Elected SAG-AFTRA President with Over 79% Vote Win

Sean Astin has been elected as the National President of SAG-AFTRA, the union that represents approximately 160,000 actors and media professionals worldwide. The announcement came Friday, marking the start of a two-year term for Astin after securing more than 79% of the vote in the recent election.

The actor, renowned for his roles as Samwise Gamgee in the Lord of the Rings trilogy and Mikey Walsh in The Goonies, received 16,143 votes, decisively surpassing his opponent Chuck Slavin, who earned 4,228 votes. This clear win reflects strong confidence from union members in Astin’s leadership.

Background and Endorsements Highlight Astin’s Candidacy

Astin’s victory follows his long-standing involvement with SAG-AFTRA, where he actively contributed in multiple negotiating talks and served on several national and local committees in Los Angeles. His professional experience in the industry and dedication to the union helped establish his credibility among voters.

Adding to his support, former SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher, whose term lasted from 2021 to 2025 and who guided the guild through a major labor strike in 2023, endorsed Astin. Drescher publicly encouraged members to vote for him as her successor, citing his integrity and character. She wrote on Instagram,

“If you’re a sag aftra member like me, your best vote for national President is fellow actor Sean Astin,”

followed by,

“This dude has got the creds to rep us all with heart, brains & experience. I’ve known him since he was 10 and he really cares and has true character. In my humble opinion he is the ONLY candidate to vote for.”

—Fran Drescher, Former SAG-AFTRA President

Astin Reflects on Legacy and Vision for the Union’s Future

Astin, whose mother Patty Duke previously led the Screen Actors Guild from 1985 to 1988, acknowledged the significance of becoming the first second-generation president of the union. In his victory statement, he expressed optimism and commitment, saying,

“Now is a time for optimism and creativity,”

and added,

“I am thrilled that the members have allowed me to lead our storied organization out of this challenging moment and into a future defined by confidence, progress and fierce advocacy.”

—Sean Astin, SAG-AFTRA President

He also praised Michelle Hurd, his running mate, who was elected as the National Secretary-Treasurer, and thanked his family for their support. Astin closed his statement by emphasizing the responsibility he carries, saying,

“Finally, I am the first second generation president of our union,”

and,

“My mother, Patty Duke, modeled for me the awesome responsibility of caring for every member of our union. I’m excited to get to work.”

—Sean Astin, SAG-AFTRA President

Astin’s Career and Influence Beyond the Union

Before stepping into this leadership role, Sean Astin enjoyed a diverse acting career that spans film and television. Recently, he reunited with his longtime friend and co-star Ke Huy Quan in the action-comedy Love Hurts. He also had recurring roles on shows such as the final season of The Conners and appeared in the crime drama Little Lorraine.

Astin’s notable film credits include Encino Man, The War of the Roses, Click, 50 First Dates, and Gloria Bell, alongside guest appearances in popular TV series like The Big Bang Theory, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and Monk. His varied body of work places him well to represent the interests of actors and media professionals across the industry.

Implications for SAG-AFTRA and Its Members Moving Forward

Astin’s election signals a hopeful and determined approach for SAG-AFTRA during a time when the union faces numerous challenges related to contract negotiations and the evolving media landscape. With his personal connection to the union’s history and broad industry experience, he is poised to lead with both care and advocacy for members.

As Astin begins his tenure, union members can expect focused leadership aimed at securing better conditions and greater rights. His victory is a milestone not only for his family legacy but also for SAG-AFTRA as it moves toward a future shaped by progressive action and member-focused policy.