Degrassi co-creator Linda Schuyler has reached a resolution with WildBrain and Peacock Alley, the producers and production companies involved in the new Degrassi documentary. Initially, Schuyler filed a lawsuit to stop the premiere of “Degrassi: Whatever It Takes” at the Toronto International Film Festival, citing defamatory content that portrayed her as profiting at the expense of the show’s young actors.
All scheduled screenings at TIFF, including the world premiere, will proceed as planned, as per a joint statement from WildBrain, Peacock Alley, and Schuyler. The parties have agreed to incorporate additional context regarding the payment structure for actors in Degrassi in the film’s future distribution.
The legal action was initiated on Monday in Ontario, naming WildBrain and Peacock Alley Entertainment as defendants. The documentary provided to the media featured early cast members expressing dissatisfaction with their compensation despite the show’s success. Actor Dayo Ade, known for his role as B.L.T. on Degrassi High, shared his post-Degrassi struggles, emphasizing the financial challenges faced by the cast.
Amanda Stepto, who portrayed Spike, also highlighted the modest pay she received during her time on Degrassi Junior High. She mentioned the lack of professional representation due to the non-union status of the set, affecting payment negotiations and residuals.
Schuyler responded to these claims in the joint statement, asserting that the Degrassi team aimed to support young performers for future success. She refuted the notion of meager daily payments, mentioning additional benefits such as a retirement fund and scholarship foundation established for the cast’s well-being.
Having sold her production company Epitome Pictures to WildBrain, along with Degrassi rights, 11 years ago, Schuyler features in the documentary recounting her experiences creating the acclaimed series. While she acknowledges the challenges faced by some former cast members, she expresses regret for any disappointment they may have experienced.
The documentary, praised by TIFF programmer Jason Anderson for addressing complex issues around actor compensation and show demands, offers a retrospective look at the realities of the 1980s Degrassi era.