Make-Up and Hair Workers at ESPN Vendor Unionize with IATSE Local 798

Bristol, CT — Hair and Make-Up Artists employed by Distinct Artistry at ESPN have voted overwhelmingly in favor of unionizing with IATSE Local 798 by a 19 to 4 margin. 

The twenty-seven Hair and Make-Up Artists are employed regularly by Distinct Artistry to create, apply, and maintain the on-screen appearances of ESPN’s studio hosts, commentators, and guests at ESPN Headquarters in Bristol as well as at major sporting events, such as the NBA Finals. This all-women workforce seeks to bargain for health insurance, retirement benefits, and workplace protections secured under a union contract.

For nearly two decades, Distinct Artistry has been ESPN Network’s primary contractor for Make-Up and Hair workers. These workers, many of whom are heads of household and parents, work around the clock to ensure on-air talent is ready to deliver ESPN viewers with high quality content - whether it’s 3PM or 3AM.

"Local 798 has stood in solidarity with the Distinct Artistry Hair and Make-Up Artists and is thrilled they have voted for union representation," said IATSE Local 798 President Angela Johnson. "We are optimistic that Distinct Artistry will meet us at the bargaining table and negotiate a contract in good faith."

# # #

ABOUT IATSE LOCAL 798: IATSE Local 798 is a chartered local of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, its Territories and Canada (IATSE). Local 798 represents make-up artists and hairstylists in the entertainment industry in motion picture/film, television, commercials and live theatrical events throughout the Local's jurisdiction.