Gabrielle Union isn’t just starring in projects—she’s quietly rewriting the rules behind the scenes. In a heartfelt moment shared on The View (and now going viral via @theviewabc on Instagram), the actress-producer opened up about her fierce commitment to ensuring everyone on her sets gets paid what they’re truly worth, even if it means she takes home less.
As a producer on many of her recent projects, Union explained how she approaches budgets with a simple but powerful philosophy:
“I’m already getting a check—especially if I’m acting in it. Why do I need to hoard all the checks?” She recounted routinely giving back portions of her own producer fee to boost compensation for crew members, supporting actors, and other team players who might otherwise feel undervalued.
“If there’s someone that feels underappreciated in our industry, please respect me, but also respect me financially,” Union said. “I wouldn’t feel comfortable being on set if there’s something I can do about it.”
She explained that fair pay isn’t just the right thing—it delivers better work.
“You’re going to get a better product out of it,” she noted, adding with a warm smile, “and my soul is at peace.”
Her closing line hit home for many in the comments:
“If they feel devalued before we even begin, I’ve already lost.”
It’s a reminder that true leadership, especially in Hollywood, means lifting others up—not just shining the spotlight on yourself.
Union’s words have sparked an outpouring of appreciation online, with fans and industry peers praising her as a rare example of generosity and integrity in an often cutthroat business.
In an era of pay-gap conversations and union battles, her quiet advocacy is a feel-good moment that proves one person really can make a difference—one paycheck at a time.
