The world of television and film production was struck by a heartbreaking loss this past weekend. Rico Priem, a veteran grip working on the popular Fox drama “9-1-1,” died in a car accident early Saturday morning. This incident has reignited concerns about long working hours and crew member safety on sets.
A Dedicated Crew Member Lost
Priem, a member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 80, was reportedly driving home after a grueling 14-hour overnight shift on location in Pomona, California. Details surrounding the accident are still emerging, but the California Highway Patrol is investigating.
Industry Tributes and Calls for Safety
The news of Priem’s passing sent shockwaves through the industry. Both IATSE and 20th Television, the studio behind “9-1-1,” issued statements expressing their condolences to Priem’s family and friends.
- IATSE’s Commitment to Safety: The union emphasized its commitment to crew member safety, stating, “Workers have a reasonable expectation that they can get to work and come home safely. No one should be put in unsafe circumstances while trying to earn a living.”
- A Life Cut Short: Fellow grip Nina Moskol, who knew Priem from previous projects, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. She described him as a “wonderful man, charismatic, vibrant, connected to people on shows everywhere,” lamenting the loss of someone who was “on the cusp of retirement, with his paperwork filed.” Moskol’s words paint a picture of a dedicated professional on the brink of a well-deserved break.
A Pattern of Production-Related Accidents
Priem’s death is not an isolated incident. The entertainment industry has witnessed several crew member accidents in recent months:
- J.C. “Spike” Osorio: In February 2024, a rigger working on Marvel’s “Wonder Man” tragically died after falling from the rafters at Radford Studios.
- The Pickup Crew Injuries: In April 2024, an action sequence on the set of Amazon-MGM Studios’ “The Pickup” went awry, resulting in injuries to multiple crew members. OSHA investigations into both these accidents are ongoing.
Long Hours and Safety Concerns
The extensive length of production schedules and the impact on crew commute home has long been a cause for safety concerns. IATSE members have consistently voiced these concerns, particularly during union negotiations in 2021.
- Focus on Long Workdays: The union prioritized securing financial penalties for production companies exceeding acceptable work hours and failing to provide mandatory rest periods during their recent negotiations with studios and streamers.
A Call to Action
The tragic loss of Rico Priem serves as a stark reminder of the human cost associated with demanding production schedules. This incident necessitates a renewed focus on prioritizing crew member safety:
- Shorter Work Hours: A reduction in production day length can significantly reduce fatigue and minimize the risk of accidents during commutes home.
- Enforced Rest Periods: Adherence to mandatory rest breaks ensures crew members are well-rested and more focused during work hours.
- Improved Safety Protocols: Investing in comprehensive safety protocols and thorough risk assessments for every production can prevent avoidable accidents.
Moving Forward
The entertainment industry thrives on the dedication and talent of its crew members. The tragic loss of Rico Priem underscores the need for a collective effort to ensure safe working environments for everyone involved in bringing our favorite stories to life. Let’s honor Priem’s memory by prioritizing safety and fostering production practices that value crew well-being.
