Joking aside, it is a sad reflection of the state of the industry.
In the UK, advertising spend is being cut dramatically - less airtime and other media is being bought , and little new is being made.
Firms are just re using what they have .
When something new is made, those involved are expected to work for demeaning rates - below even union recommended rates - which previously had been standard minimum.
Photographers, crews, actors, writers, set caterers etc. are finding it very tough.
Unfortunately, many are accepting these insulting rates - demeaning themselves and their profession. They don't realise it ruins theirs and everyone else's futures.
It is extremely difficult to regain the correct rates, and more importantly, repect, once they have allowed themselves to be exploited.
You don't get that in the U.S. - artists would rather wash cars than accept less than union conditions.
That is why SAG and AFTRA are so powerful - and why the artists are properly treated and respected.
Thankfully, West End producers and the BBC still follow at least the minimum union stipulations.
Dwarf - LOL - thanks for that.