Celebrities Organize Auctions for Dog Walks and Dinner to Support SAG-AFTRA Strike Workers

Celebrities have launched an online auction to raise funds for healthcare support for production crew members who have been affected by the ongoing Hollywood actors' and writers' strikes. The auction offers various meet-and-greets with famous actors and actresses. For instance, Parks and Recreation star Adam Scott is offering to walk someone's dog for an hour, but the dog must be in Los Angeles. The current bid for this experience is $3,050. Girls star Lena Dunham is auctioning off a mural-painting session in the winner's home, with the latest bid at $5,100. Additionally, actor Busy Philipps is offering a pottery class in New York. This auction is organized by the Union Solidarity Coalition, a charity founded by Hollywood writers and directors to provide financial support. Bidding is open until September 22. Other items up for auction include a fedora signed by Tom Waits and a personalized song performance by the cast of Bob's Burgers. Natasha Lyonne from Netflix's Russian Doll is offering to help solve the New York Times crossword puzzle, and John Lithgow is willing to paint a watercolor portrait of the winning bidder's dog. The strikes, which started in May, are due to pay concerns, working conditions, and the industry's use of AI. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers has been accused of not offering a fair deal by the Screen Actors Guild and Writers Guild. Until an agreement is reached, many will remain without healthcare and employment.