Drake Bell has criticized SAG‑AFTRA for denying him eligibility for the union’s health plan.
He posted a screenshot of his SAG‑AFTRA health‑plan account on his Instagram Story, which displayed the notice that he does not qualify for coverage because his reported earnings for July 2025‑June 2026 fell short of the minimum eligibility requirements or other criteria.
The portal indicated that Bell earned $17,480.53, falling $11,452.47 short of the threshold; SAG‑AFTRA mandates a minimum of $28,090 in earnings for health‑plan eligibility as of 2026.
In his post, Bell warned, “Do not become an actor. Do not join SAG‑AFTRA. Even after 35 years in the industry, the union may still respond with a middle‑finger emoji.” He tagged SAG‑AFTRA and its president, Sean Astin, known for roles in Lord of the Rings and The Goonies.
He added, “@SAGAFTRA, @SeanAstin, you’re doing a bang up job. Perhaps the union should stop letting actors run its operations — they only know how to recite lines in front of a camera.”
The Hollywood Reporter reached out to SAG‑AFTRA for comment but received no response at publication.
Earlier this year, Bell turned his attention to music, launching his album *Non‑Stop Flight* in 2024 and embarking on a summer tour across the United States and Mexico. He later announced the postponement of the tour’s concluding dates due to personal circumstances, stating he regretted being unable to perform.
In a public statement, he explained, “For personal reasons and with great sadness, I must postpone the final concerts of this tour. I have done everything possible to be there, but I am currently unable to do so.”
Bell first gained fame in the early 2000s through his roles on Nickelodeon’s The Amanda Show and the hit series Drake & Josh, opposite Josh Peck. He also contributed extensive voice work throughout his career.
In 2024, he disclosed publicly for the first time in the docuseries Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV that he was the unnamed victim of sexual abuse by former dialogue coach Brian Peck.
He joins other performers who have openly discussed challenges securing health insurance, including Atypical star Jack Haven and Princess Diaries actress Heather Matarazzo.
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