%20(1).png)
Stephen Amell reversed his prior remark regarding the SAG-AFTRA strike in the face of rising criticism.
In a long Instagram statement, the Arrow actress stated, "To ensure there is no misunderstanding about my thoughts and intentions, I'm providing what I actually said as well as clarity/context to ensure my feelings aren't unintentionally misinterpreted."
This comes after the CW actor stated on a GalaxyCon panel in North Carolina, "I support my union, I do, and I stand with them," adding, "I do not support striking." I don't."
"My off-the-cuff use of the word'support' is clearly contradictory to my true feelings and my emphatic statement that I stand with my union," he said, explaining his problematic comments, particularly the "striking as a tactic." Of course, I despise striking. No one does. But we must do what must be done."
"I'm an actor, and I was speaking extemporaneously for over an hour," he continued. I emote, but I don't believe these situations are easy. Our leadership has a difficult job, and I appreciate all they do.
Despite some of my poor early acting performances, I promise you that I am not a robot. From an academic standpoint, I understand why we are striking, but it doesn't mean it isn't emotionally draining for everyone involved."
After his lengthy explanation, the 42-year-old wholeheartedly supported the SAG-AFTRA strike.
"However, at least for the foreseeable future, I choose to stand with my union," he says, adding, "When you see me on the picket line, please don't whip any hard fruit."
Prior to Amell's new comment, his Arrowverse co-star Kirk Acevedo called him out on Twitter, writing, "This *** guy."
Matt Letscher, another Arrowverse actor, also chastised him for his allegedly controversial remarks.
"Still waiting for that comprehensive list of totally non-reductive negotiating tactics we get to employ now," he tweeted on Monday. "Thank you, God, for superheroes!" Any moment now..."
Still waiting on that comprehensive list of totally non-reductive negotiating tactics we get to employ now. Thank god for superheroes! Any second now…. #SAGAFTRAstrike #SAGAFTRAstrong
— Matt Letscher (@MattLetscher) August 1, 2023
