Jimmy Shergill Raises Concerns Over 18-Hour Workdays for Film Crew Members
Actor Jimmy Shergill, a veteran with three decades in the Hindi film industry, has drawn attention to the long working hours faced by film crew members. Speaking during promotions for his upcoming Netflix project, Shergill advocated for fairer working conditions, pointing out that crew members often endure shifts extending up to 18 hours daily.
What Happened
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India while promoting his show Operation Safed Sagar, Jimmy Shergill detailed the stark difference between actor schedules and crew work hours. While actors typically work shifts that range from 12 to 15 hours including call preparation, crew members arrive three hours before shooting starts and remain on set three hours after wrap time.
Shergill noted that after accounting for set preparation, wrap-up duties, and commuting, crew members are left with virtually no personal time or adequate rest, creating unsustainable living conditions driven by a lack of employment alternatives.
Key Highlights
- Actors usually work 12-hour shooting schedules that can stretch to 15 hours.
- Film crew members often work 18 hours per day, not including their commute back home.
- Shergill emphasized that long shifts seriously threaten the health and well-being of crew members.
- He highlighted global standards where 12-hour work limits are respected.
- Shergill acknowledged that actors hold privilege, as they can finish shooting in 15 to 20 days and rest, whereas workers cannot.
Why This Matters
Shergill’s comments shed light on the physical and personal toll taken on behind-the-scenes personnel who sustain daily production operations. By comparing local practices with international 12-hour standards, he emphasized that health and personal quality of life must take precedence over relentless work schedules, urging industry leaders to reform set ethics.
What to Watch Next
Jimmy Shergill will be seen next in the upcoming ensemble series Operation Safed Sagar, which features Dia Mirza, Siddharth, Amrita Bagchi, Abhay Verma, and Mihir Ahuja. The show is set to premiere on Netflix on August 7, featuring the tribute song “Aazma Le” by Vishal Dadlani dedicated to the Indian Air Force.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical working hours for film crews according to Jimmy Shergill?
According to Shergill, crew members frequently work 18 hours a day because they arrive three hours prior to call time and stay three hours past the final wrap, plus additional travel time.
When does Jimmy Shergill’s next project premiere?
Shergill’s upcoming show, Operation Safed Sagar, is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on August 7.
Source: Bollywood Hungama / The Hollywood Reporter India