Brooke Shields has been elected president of the Actors’ Equity Association, the union representing over 51,000 professional stage actors and managers. Shields, known for her iconic roles in film and Broadway, will serve a four-year term.
New Leadership for a New Era
Rashaan James II was elected eastern regional vice president, Sarah LaBarr was elected central regional vice president without opposition, and Jeffrey Landman was elected western regional vice president, also without opposition. This new leadership team brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the union’s mission.
Brooke Shields: A Star on Stage and Screen
Brooke Shields is best known for her roles in the films “Pretty Baby,” “The Blue Lagoon,” and “Endless Love.” Her Broadway credits include “The Addams Family,” “Chicago,” “Cabaret,” and “Grease.” Recently, she starred in and executive produced Netflix’s “Mother of the Bride.” In 2023, she was featured in a two-part Hulu documentary, “Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields,” which delves into her experiences as a child star and her challenges in the entertainment industry.
A Vision for Equity’s Future
Shields won the election over stage manager Erin Maureen Koster, succeeding actor Kate Shindle, who was elected in 2015 and chose not to run for re-election. In April, Shields announced her candidacy with a video expressing her ambitions for the union.
“I want Equity to be in the position to command the respect that we deserve, whether it’s at the bargaining table or in DC or in every state house and city hall across the country, where we want to lobby for arts funding,” Shields said. “I want to use all of the goodwill and the advantages I have built up in my career over the years to grow the value of being an Equity member.”
A New Chapter for Actors’ Equity Association
Shields’ election marks a significant moment for the Actors’ Equity Association. With her extensive experience and star power, she is poised to lead the union toward greater recognition and support for its members. Shields’ commitment to advocacy and her passion for the arts will undoubtedly inspire positive organizational changes.
The new leadership team is ready to tackle the challenges and work towards a brighter future for professional stage actors and managers nationwide.
