Hollywood Strikes: Workers Turn to Flea Markets and Bake Sales as Unions Face Uncertain Future

Hollywood workers, including crew members and prop makers, are resorting to flea markets and bake sales to make ends meet as strikes by writers and actors have shut down most scripted production in Los Angeles. The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) estimates that its members have lost close to $2 billion in wages, with some pulling from their retirement plans to cover expenses. The strikes have resulted in the loss of 17,000 jobs in the motion picture and sound recording industries. The estimated lost output from the strikes is around $5 billion across California and other production-heavy states. Many workers are struggling to cover basic costs of living and are taking on part-time jobs or selling personal belongings to make ends meet.