Billy Zane, known for his roles in films like “Titanic” and “The Phantom,” is advocating for a new form of compensation for actors who take on emotionally taxing roles. Zane has coined the term “emotional stunt pay” to highlight the psychological toll that dark and intense characters can have on performers.
In a recent interview, Zane discussed the mental and emotional challenges actors face when portraying characters involved in traumatic or disturbing storylines. He emphasized that just as stunt performers receive hazard pay for physical risks, actors should be compensated for the emotional and psychological risks they undertake.
Zane’s proposal comes at a time when the entertainment industry is increasingly recognizing the importance of mental health. The actor pointed out that while physical injuries are visible and often immediate, emotional and psychological impacts can be long-lasting and less apparent. He believes that acknowledging these risks through additional compensation could lead to better mental health support for actors.
The concept of “emotional stunt pay” is gaining traction among industry professionals, with many agreeing that the mental well-being of actors should be prioritized. Zane hopes that his advocacy will lead to concrete changes in how actors are supported and compensated for their work, particularly in roles that demand significant emotional investment.
Source: IndieWire, The Daily Beast
