November 21, 2025

Dear ACTRA Toronto members,

Many of you have reached out about reports that Spin Master intends to cast the third iteration of Unicorn Academy Shorts with a non-union ensemble. Thank you for bringing your concerns forward. I want to assure you that we are fully aware of the situation and have been engaging with the Producer since receiving notice.

ACTRA Toronto first learned on November 6 that performers featured in Unicorn Academy Shorts were given what was described as “respectful notice” that the third iteration would move ahead with non-union casting. Our team followed up with the Producer to explore every possible union path forward. While we have been clear with the Producer that the strength and success of this show come from the talented union performers who have brought these characters to life, they have made the disappointing decision to continue in their pursuit for non-union voices to work on the Unicorn Academy Shorts.  

These performances have been recognized in a major way. Unicorn Academy received five Outstanding Performance Voice nominations at the 2025 ACTRA Awards in Toronto and six additional Canadian Screen Award nominations. The artistry of our members is not only cherished by fans but honoured by their peers.

We encourage members and fans of the series to stand with the union voices who made the Unicorn Academy brand what it is. Your performances set the tone. They define the world. They are the heart of the show.

We will remain in active pursuit of organizing this new production and will update you as soon as we have more information. In the meantime, please know this: ACTRA Toronto stands with every performer affected and will continue working to keep this production union through all avenues open to us.

We encourage members to use your voice and platforms to share this message with other members, non-union talent, industry allies and fans of the show.

In solidarity,
Kate Ziegler
President of ACTRA Toronto