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Preventing Falling Stars: Exploring the Effectiveness and Enforcement of Entertainment Laws and Union Regulations
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Astor del Valle, Janis A.
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Spring 2025
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2025
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9891_Amanda_Wenner.pdf
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Child entertainers face significant pressures from various stakeholders–agents, parents, industry professionals, and the public–all of whom have conflicting expectations and desires for these children's careers. Despite numerous high-profile cases of child stars facing severe psychological and behavioral consequences, there is little research on the long-term impact of child entertainment careers or the existing legal frameworks intended to protect these young performers. This paper examines the history and limitations of child entertainment laws, focusing on the inconsistencies of state-by-state regulations and the lack of comprehensive federal protections. Additionally, it explores the new challenges posed by in the digital age, where the work of "Kidfluencers" goes completely unregulated. Through case studies, a literature review, analysis of existing laws, and media analysis of interviews with former child stars, this research identifies significant gaps in both legislation and industry practices. The paper proposes recommendations for federal-level legislative reform, the role of unions like AEA and SAG-AFTRA, and the responsibilities of parents and industry professionals in protecting child entertainers. Ultimately, it calls on lawmakers and industry leaders to address these gaps to prevent future harm and ensure the well-being of children in entertainment as the industry continues to evolve.
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