Blues Brothers pull out of fundraisers amid actors strike. See what happened

Jim Belushi and Dan Aykroyd have canceled performances at Oceana and Los Angeles Regional Food Bank events. They have been replaced by Gladys Knight.

The musical comedy duo, Blues Brothers – Jim Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, have withdrawn from two upcoming fundraisers due to the SAG-AFTRA strike. They were set to headline Oceana’s Rock Under the Stars on August 12 and LA Regional Food Bank’s “A Million Reasons” Celebration on August 13.

Aykroyd explained, “We're saddened to step back as Blues Brothers for Oceana and LA Regional Food Bank causes. SAG-AFTRA rules bar characters from TV and films at concerts and conventions. It's disappointing to miss these worthy events, but we stand with the union.”


In 1978, Blues Brothers started on Saturday Night Live, later becoming a film by John Landis in 1980. As per SAG’s guidelines, the union’s 160,000 affected members can't do on-camera work or promotional activities like conventions, premieres, interviews, festivals, FYC events, award shows and podcasts. Charity events have largely avoided strike issues, but Blues Brothers, appearing as characters, is an exception.

Gladys Knight steps in, headlining both events before her Hollywood Bowl show on August 15. The guests which have been confirmed at Oceana include Ted Danson, Mary Steenburgen, Woody Harrelson and Sam Waterston. The Food Bank event is expected to include Danson, Steenburgen, Waterston, Jeff Goldblum, Dylan McDermott as celebrity sous chefs for the cause.

FAQs

Why did the Blues Brothers withdraw from the fundraisers?
Jim Belushi and Dan Aykroyd pulled out due to the SAG-AFTRA strike's prohibition on TV and film characters at events. They expressed solidarity with the union.

Who will replace the Blues Brothers at the fundraisers?
Gladys Knight will now headline the Oceana and Food Bank events. She's stepping in for the Blues Brothers and will perform before her Hollywood Bowl show.