The BBC, Sky, ITV, and Channel 4, as well as HBO, Disney, and Apple TV+ are among the 21 organizations that have backed a drive “towards a culture in which everyone working in the TV industry feels able to call out bad behavior and that nobody is above being questioned.”
As part of a move by major TV organizations to “tackle inappropriate behavior” in the industry, actors will receive anti-bullying and harassment training as well as advance nudity warnings.
Performing arts union Equity announced its new “statement of commitment” developed alongside broadcasters including the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Sky, HBO, Disney, and Apple TV+ to help deliver “real and lasting change”.
Allegations of abuse across all aspects of the entertainment industry have come to the fore over the past few years, in the wake of the #MeToo movement.
In total, 21 organisations have backed the move “towards a culture in which everyone working in the TV industry feels able to call out unacceptable behaviour and that nobody is above being challenged: no one is untouchable”, the union said.
Representatives from the organisations have agreed to ensure safe casting and audition spaces, to appoint safeguarding contacts on set, and to put clear policies in place for making and addressing concerns and complaints of bullying and harassment.
Anti-bullying and harassment training will also be completed by cast and crew members before they start work on a production.
The statement of commitment also highlights procedures surrounding nudity and simulated sex acts, saying notification is to be given “in advance and in writing about the scope and extent of nudity and/or simulated sex requested, followed by discussion and agreement with the artist”.