Social Media Campaign Urges Crew To Boycott ‘Midnight Rider’ After Sarah Jones’ Death
Following word that “Midnight Rider” would resume production after the tragic on-set accident that killed assistant camera operator Sarah Jones in February, a social media campaign has gotten underway to urge crew to boycott work on the film.
“This group is for people who REFUSE to work for those that shot illegally, directly causing the death of Sarah Jones. Midnight Rider is coming to LA to shoot. Let’s continue to stand up for Sarah and for Sarah’s parents. REFUSE to work on this show. Lets shut it down,” reads the description of the Facebook group created to boycott production of the film. More than 5,000 people have joined so far to support the cause.
A producer from Unclaimed Freight Productions, the production company behind “Midnight Rider,” recently informed the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees of plans to resume the film, a biopic of musician Gregg Allman.
Read More: Sarah Jones’ Death Highlights Dangers Crew Members Face on Set
“We have expressed our obvious concerns regarding this production starting again. We have demanded that they provide clearances from any and all governmental agencies and/or police agencies that are investigating this company and the individuals involved,” said IATSE international vice president/department director, motion picture & TV production Michael F. Miller, Jr. in a message to members, which informed them that production was set to resume in mid-June.
“The company did not ask for permission and was not granted permission to restart production. As uncomfortable as this is, we cannot prevent them from starting up again. Whether or not they can get people to work for them is a decision that those people will have to make for themselves,” wrote Miller.
Separately, Deadline reports that the Wayne County Sheriff’s office in Georgia has turned over the investigation into Jones’ death over to the District Attorney’s office, who will discuss the case with state authorities before deciding whether to pursue criminal charges.
