The showbiz industry faced one of its biggest controversies this year after two ‘independent contractors’ of GMA Network were accused of mistreating newbie artist Sandro Muhlach.
Several blind items tagged the suspects, Jojo Nones and Richard Cruz, as ‘executives’ of GMA Network, but the company insisted that they were only independent contractors.
It can be recalled that Sandro had already filed charges against Nones and Cruz, and his family was not considering any settlement between them.
But despite being an independent contractor, how powerful are Nones and Cruz in the network?
What is an Independent Contractor?
This is a term used by television networks to define a talent working for them without having any employer-employee relationship.
An independent contractor has no employment contract with a company, which means that Nones and Cruz were not employees of GMA Network.
They also enjoy independence and freedom from the control and supervision of their principal.
Position of Nones and Cruz
While they’re not directly hired by GMA Network, Nones and Cruz could be considered as powerful in the showbiz industry, handling big positions and shows.
According to his LinkedIn profile, Cruz was a creative head for the Afternoon Prime of GMA Network.
Meanwhile, Nones was a creative consultant and director on some GMA Network shows, including First Yaya.
Their decisions were a big factor in the show’s route and may even have influenced the program’s casting.
This means artists must maintain a good relationship with them to have a bountiful career in showbiz.