While SAG-AFTRA volunteers spent their weekend preparing for a potential strike this week, union President Fran Drescher jetted off to attend Dolce & Gabbana’s Alta Moda festivities in Puglia, Italy.
The star-studded event was attended by industry figures such as Kim Kardashian, Helen Mirren, and Kerry Washington. Drescher’s presence at the lavish event during a pivotal moment for the union has sparked debate among Hollywood insiders, raising concerns about the optics of her attendance and the timing of the trip.
According to The Hollywood Reporter who broke the story, it remains unclear how many events Drescher attended or the duration of her stay in Italy, but her presence at the closing show was confirmed by Kim Kardashian’s Instagram post. The post featured the two stars in a candid moment, with Kardashian praising Drescher as her “fashion icon.”
Responding to press inquiries, SAG-AFTRA said: “President Drescher is working as a brand ambassador for Dolce and Gabbana on location in Italy. This was a commitment fully known to the negotiating committee. She has been in negotiations every day either in person or via videoconference. President Drescher is managing a physically demanding schedule across three time zones, overseeing negotiations and working on location daily as well as managing her parents’ needs in Florida. She is returning to the States and will be on the ground in LA tomorrow and will continue to chair our negotiations.”
While her commitment as a brand ambassador was known to the negotiating committee, some argue that her attendance still sends a conflicting message, considering the ongoing contract negotiations and recent controversies surrounding Kardashian’s reported crossing of WGA picket lines.
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Maya Dunbar, who’s running against Drescher for president on the anti-vax mandate ticket, told Deadline, “This is a clear example of how out of touch the President is with the majority of the rank-and file-membership. While most members are currently wondering if there’s going to be a strike, and how they’ll pay the rent, their dues and afford to provide for their families during the worst economic stability in recent years, she’s off taking pics with celebrities widely known and shamed for crossing WGA picket lines.”
Drescher’s history with Dolce & Gabbana dates back to her role as Fran Fine in the TV show The Nanny (1993-1999), where her character frequently wore the brand’s ensembles. As the show has gained renewed popularity through streaming, Drescher has been celebrated as an icon and fashion influencer. She has previously worn Dolce & Gabbana for magazine covers and features.
The union president previously assured SAG-AFTRA members that the union was standing strong and aiming for a significant deal. Contract negotiations between SAG-AFTRA, major studios, and streaming platforms were extended until July 12, providing additional time for discussions. Drescher pledged to keep members informed about the progress of events and emphasized unity, solidarity, and strength.
Will she be working the picket line in D&G? That’s our big question.
