Arrowverse Star Offers A Retrospective About Their SAG-AFTRA Strike Controversy

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Summary

  • Stephen Amell reflects on controversy from SAG-AFTRA strike and learns from experience in handling public statements.
  • Amell’s role in Arrow and Arrowverse paved the way for successful career moves, including upcoming Suits LA.
  • The impact of the Arrowverse cannot be underestimated in the DC franchise, paving the way for new projects like James Gunn’s reboot.

These days, the leading character from “Arrow” on The CW is pursuing new endeavors, and he’s reflecting on one of the scant scandals that fans recall him being involved in while the franchise was active.

The TV series “Arrow,” which was groundbreaking and hugely popular during its time, paved the way for numerous DC universe spin-offs and crossover events that collectively became known as the Arrowverse, a tribute to its origin. This wouldn’t have been achievable without Stephen Amell’s convincing portrayal of Oliver Queen, a performance that has deeply resonated with fans, often being seen as synonymous with the character. The show and brand thrived due to Amell and his co-stars putting in solid work, but Amell faced some criticism when he spoke out against the SAG-AFTRA strike in 2023.

In time, Amell overcame his initial hesitations, and not long after, both supporters and critics largely forgave him for the incident. Recently, in a conversation with Variety about his career and role in the upcoming Suits spin-off/revival, Amell reflected on the past event. Although he maintains a bit of reluctance regarding his stance, it’s clear that he has grown from the experience. “Not every thought should be voiced through a microphone,” he remarks. “I still believe that going on strike is extreme – that was my main point. I realize now that I need to exercise more patience. I don’t agree with the notion of ‘You’re an actor, stay within your boundaries.’ But I acknowledge that I should be more thoughtful about what I share publicly and how it might affect others. It seemed like the world was ending. To be at the center of a digital storm like that – everything appears minuscule, and you feel as though everyone is scrutinizing you. I genuinely believed I was being judged at the gym or while dropping my children off at school.

It’s fortunate that Amell took something valuable from the criticism he faced, given it could have been more severe. Despite his brief entanglement in controversy, he managed to secure roles like working on the series Heelz, which resumed production following the strike and the initial comments. Additionally, he was cast as Green Arrow for the final season of The Flash, a move that thrilled dedicated fans of the franchise as well as those casually familiar with crossover events. The upcoming project, Suits LA, has already generated excitement among viewers who are eager to see his performance and keep an eye out for potential cameos from the original show.

The influence of the Arrowverse is immense, and it seems that the DC franchise is gradually becoming harder for fans to access, which coincides perfectly with James Gunn and Peter Safran’s reboot plans on both streaming platforms and cinema. Although some may lament the passing of the old guard, they should embrace the change and cheer Amell on as he embarks on his thrilling new lead role in Suits LA, especially if that’s the kind of project they enjoy.

Arrow and the rest of the Arrowverse are available to stream on Netflix.

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2025-02-17 16:54