Breaking News: Actors Protesting Against Dhar Mann Studios // Citing Wages, and Mistreatment in The Workplace
File Photo: Protesters outside of Dhar Mann Studios in Burbank, CA
Update: Feb. 7 5:14pm
In the hours following the protest, Michael Vacarro, an actor who spoke with RYM earlier today about the injustices shared an exclusive photo with us detailing his removal, being informed he was “no longer needed”. As of right now, no other participants have been confirmed to have been removed as well.
BURBANK, CA -(RYM)- Talk about a total shocker!
In a real twist to the norm, The Actors behind the notable Dhar Mann Studios [Known For their motivational viral videos] are protesting against the production company.
Earlier today, outside the Dhar Mann Studio Location in Burbank, CA many of the actors known for the roles they have played in a multitude of these videos were seen outside the gates gathering in protest.
During the protest itself, the group marched throughout the area, even disrupting a production being done on the studio lot.
Representatives, Colin A Borden (Contracted for 3 years) & Chas (Charles) Laughlin (Contracted for 2 years), spoke with RYM as to why they feel this protest is necessary.
“Essentially a lot of us who are here have worked with the studio for years, and we DO NOT MAKE A LIVING WAGE. There is no security in the job that we do. [It started as a punk rock scene] Our videos get millions of views, then repackaged, and reposted for millions more views, and we see no compensation for any of it. We are only paid hourly wages. We are the faces of this brand; we built this brand. … We asked to speak to Dhar specifically [our boss] for a meeting that was never had.” - Colin A Borden
According to Borden, and Laughlin initially they went through a process in which they requested a meeting with Mann to sit down [via the HR department] and discuss what can be done in order to assist the actors who have been working under these unlivable wages. The meeting was allegedly moved multiple times, but inevitably it never occurred.
“All we want to do is talk to our boss about an issue we are having at work. That is not an unusual thing to do.” - Colin A Borden
A rumor with regard to said meeting added that at the time of the meeting, Mann was allegedly on a trip to Aspen, CO. Witnesses at the protest confirmed the rumor via videos they found on Mann’s Instagram Stories.
“I don’t want to say anything besides that it is ironic. … You probably haven’t heard about it before because people are afraid, … unless we all come together, we get crushed individually. … it is pretty shocking.” … There are certain moments where it feels intentional, almost disrespectful to the actors specifically.” - Charles Laughlin
Laughlin went further into detail citing an event that occurred last December in which the actors were required to attend. During the said event, he states merchandise was sold, as well as tickets reaching $100 per person selling out for the event. None of the actors who attended were compensated, in fact, they were required to pay for their own parking
“He's using our faces, and that was the final insult” - Laughlin
While continuing to speak with us, Both actors reiterated their claim of using their likeness without compensation citing, a lack of credits and recognition.
“We built the brand. We started in an apartment building, and now there are 3 sound stages seen here. It’s true we still don’t have official credits, Our faces are on ads, commercials, and t-shirts, not our names. It’s a very unusual thing to show up to work, and not have anyone know who you are.” - Colin A Borden
“People come up to us on the streets daily, and say HEY I SAW YOU FROM DHAR MANN.” They know our faces, but not our names.” - Charles Laughlin
RYM reached out to Ruben Ortiz, the Head of Production at Dhar Mann Studios, and he sent us a written statement:
“In the few short years of our start, we're proud to have given thousands of actors job opportunities and Millions of Dollars in collective compensation. In many instances, we've compensated them more than our peers and have continued to increase their compensation year over year. We do not have any full-time actors, they are free to take the opportunities they desire, and we remain committed to pursuing our mission of telling inspiring stories that help people all around the world.”
As of right now, there has not been any confirmation of a meeting between the production company. Borden has confirmed as of right now that the protests will continue.
Another actor, and member of the protesting group on site Michael Vacarro issued a statement as well.
“I’m so sorry that all of this had to happen. I’ve worked with Dhar Mann for over three years now, and I expected fair behavior. All we did was ask for a meeting, so that we could discuss our concerns. But, Dhar wouldn’t have it. He left us no choice. I know the fans are very disappointed, but it couldn’t be helped. I am tremendously grateful for the fan support.