Christopher D. Baker

With a mix of emotions, I wanted to share some news with you. It has been an absolute honor and privilege to work with a team that became more than colleagues – they became family. The journey with The Advot Project has been a profound blessing, allowing me to use theater not only as a healing tool for my own traumas but as a source of hope for black and brown kids across Los Angeles.

From probation centers to high schools, boys and girls clubs to institutions like USC and NVGA, it's been magical to share the transformative power of theater with those who look like me. The passion for storytelling has been a guiding light, and the experiences we've shared are etched in my heart.

Thank you to the incredible Advot team for fostering an environment where growth was not just encouraged but celebrated. Your support has been instrumental in my personal and professional journey. As I bid farewell on my official last day, December 21, 2023, I'm filled with gratitude for a wonderful four years of creativity, collaboration, and community.

I can't wait for what the future holds and the new stories waiting to be written. Thank you all for being a part of this incredible chapter.

With heartfelt appreciation.

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December 24th, 2023

Hey Y'all,

I'm thrilled to share some fantastic news for the entertainment industry, particularly for actors like myself! Recently, a groundbreaking deal was struck between SAG-AFTRA and studio heads, bringing about a wave of positive changes and addressing crucial concerns for working actors.

As reported in The Washington Post, the terms of the deal are nothing short of remarkable. With "more than $1 billion" earmarked for new wages and benefit plans over the next three years, it's being hailed as the most significant deal in industry history. This infusion of funds is a testament to the gains achieved in this contract over the existing one, signaling a substantial victory for actors' compensation and well-being.

One key highlight is the creation of a new fund dedicated to compensating performers for their work on streaming shows. While the exact contribution from studios remains unspecified, the initial demand for 2 percent of streaming revenue was eventually settled for about $40 million a year. This move acknowledges the evolving landscape of the industry and ensures fair compensation for actors in the realm of digital content.

In addition to the financial gains, the deal brings immediate benefits with a 7 percent wage increase for many performers and an impressive 11 percent increase for background actors. What's more, these wages are set to rise incrementally in 2024 and 2025, providing a sustained improvement in compensation over the contract's duration.

Crucially, the agreement also introduces new terms to guarantee proper hair and makeup services for all performers, addressing the diverse needs of actors with various hair textures and complexions. This inclusive approach reflects a commitment to creating environments that cater to the unique requirements of every performer.

Furthermore, the stipulation mandating the hiring of intimacy coordinators for scenes involving nudity or simulated sex is a significant step forward. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring a safe and respectful working environment, addressing concerns that have often been overlooked in the past.

In conclusion, this historic deal marks a turning point for actors in the industry. It not only secures better compensation and benefits but also lays the groundwork for a more inclusive and respectful working environment. As we celebrate this achievement, it's a testament to the power of collective bargaining and the tireless efforts of those who worked towards this transformative agreement. Here's to a brighter, fairer future for all working actors!

November 12, 2023 

Standing Strong in Solidarity with SAG-AFTRA

Hey everyone,

I wanted to take a moment to share something close to my heart. As a working actor here in Los Angeles, I've seen firsthand the passion, dedication, and hard work that my fellow actors pour into their craft. It's not just a job; it's a way of life.

Right now, our friends and colleagues at SAG-AFTRA are taking a stand, and I stand with them wholeheartedly. Their strike is about more than just wage increases or better healthcare coverage. It's about ensuring that actors like us can not only live but also thrive in this city while pursuing our dreams in TV and film.

As I transition into more television and film work myself, I recognize the importance of supporting initiatives that benefit all of us in the industry. It's not just about our individual careers; it's about coming together to create a better environment for actors across the board.

The Workers' Demands: Let's take a moment to understand what SAG-AFTRA members are asking for:

• Wage Increases: It's about time that those who captivate us on the screen receive fair compensation for their dedication and hard work.

• Improved Health Care Coverage: Ensuring the health and well-being of these professionals should be a top priority.

• Compensation for Virtual Auditions: In an industry where auditions are often held virtually, acknowledging the value of their time and talent is only fair.

• Protection from AI Exploitation: As technology advances, it's essential that their likeness and talent are safeguarded from unethical use in artificial intelligence.

The Power of Solidarity: The struggle faced by SAG-AFTRA members isn't just their battle—it's a fight for fairness and justice that resonates with all of us. As consumers of entertainment, we have a stake in ensuring that those who bring our favorite characters to life are treated with respect and fairness.

Streaming giants like Amazon, Apple, Disney, NBCUniversal, Netflix, Paramount, Sony, and Warner Bros. Discovery have a significant influence on the entertainment industry. It's imperative that they listen to the legitimate concerns of the people who drive their success.

Why We Support: Supporting SAG-AFTRA and their members isn't just about endorsing their demands; it's about standing up for the principles of fairness and equity. It's about recognizing that every worker, regardless of their industry, deserves to be treated with dignity, compensated fairly, and protected from exploitation.

What You Can Do:

• Spread the Word: Share this post and the information about the SAG-AFTRA negotiations on your social media platforms. Use your voice to raise awareness.

• Contact the Studios and Streaming Services: Reach out to the major Hollywood studios and streaming services mentioned earlier and express your support for the workers' demands.

• Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest developments in the negotiations and continue to show your solidarity.

So, I want to make it clear that I stand in solidarity with SAG-AFTRA and all the talented actors who are part of this strike. Your fight is our fight, and together, we can make a difference.

Let's keep pushing for a fair and equitable future for all working actors in Los Angeles and beyond. 💪🎬 #SupportSAGAFTRA #ActorsU

September 9, 2023 

Hello, everyone! I am thrilled to announce that I have partnered with a new company called "Improv it Up." Their mission is to create an environment where mistakes are welcomed and wrong answers don't exist through the power of Improv. Improv allows people to express themselves without inhibition, which is a skill that many people never experience. I believe that this aligns with my personal goals and the skills I want to foster in my students' lives and my own. I am excited to embark on this new journey and to see what we can all learn and achieve together.

April 29, 2023