Brooke Shields Running for President of Actors’ Equity Association

Brooke Shields, the iconic actress and model, has announced her candidacy for president of the Actors’ Equity Association, the union representing over 51,000 actors and stage managers on Broadway and nationwide. Shields made the decision to run after learning that the current president, Kate Shindle, would not be seeking re-election.

In a video announcement, Shields expressed her desire to lead with strength, intelligence, compassion, passion, and humor. With five Broadway credits to her name, including roles in productions like The Addams Family, Cabaret, and Chicago, Shields brings a wealth of experience to the table.

If elected, Shields plans to use her star power and Broadway background to advocate for change within the community and nationwide. She aims to elevate the status of Equity members and lobby for arts funding at the bargaining table and in government offices.

Shields is running against two other candidates for the presidency, including Wydetta Carter and Erin Maureen Koster. The position requires negotiating union contracts for Broadway and touring theaters, as well as leading unionizing efforts for other groups, such as performers at Disneyland.

With the demands of the position increasing post-pandemic, Equity members have been pushing for higher wages and greater understudy coverage. Shields’ candidacy comes at a crucial time for the theater industry, as theaters across the country seek greater arts funding.

News of Shields’ candidacy was first reported by The Broadway Journal. Shields highlighted her experience lobbying Capitol Hill as a parent and her accomplishments throughout her career as qualifications for the role.

“I’ve never shied away from practically anything and I will work as hard as I possibly can, using the strength that I now know I have. And I have a great deal to offer,” Shields said.

As the election for president of the Actors’ Equity Association approaches, all eyes are on Brooke Shields and her vision for the future of the theater industry.