Weeks after the controversial premiere of ‘Rust,’ IATSE has appointed a pair of industry vets as firearms experts for the entertainment labor union.
The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees has named Larry Zanoff, a longtime member of IATSE Local 44, who will serve as the firearms expert representing the Basic Agreement; and Brook Yeaton, prop master, armorer, and president of IATSE Local 478, who will serve in the same capacity but instead representing the Area Standards Agreement.
The appointments follow last month’s controversial premiere of western “Rust,” the film which involved an on-set gun accident that killed “Rust” cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The film, which premiered at Poland’s EnergaCamerimage, placed industrywide attention on the issue of on-set safety, including the use of firearms.
In these newly created advisory roles, Zanoff and Yeaton will work closely with IATSE’s negotiating committees on contract negotiations and proposals, assist in addressing firearm safety issues, and represent IATSE in key industry forums, legislative hearings, and other matters that require expert opinions or testimony relating to firearm use and safety protocols within the entertainment industry.
Zanoff brings a background in law enforcement, combat service, and a degree in gunsmithing. His work as a motion picture armorer, expert witness, and educator has included appearances on programs like “Hollywood Weapons” and “Gun Stories.” He said, “I am honored to be selected by my peers for this position, and look forward to bringing my knowledge and experience to this new role assisting my fellow members and industry colleagues in maintaining the highest level of safety on set.”
An IATSE member for more than three decades, Yeaton has worked as a property master and armorer on productions such as “NCIS: New Orleans” and “The Wire.” As president of Local 478, Yeaton advocates for safety and professionalism on set. Asserted Yeaton,“Weapon safety is everyone’s responsibility.”
“Safety has always been a pillar of the union’s mission,” said IATSE international president Matthew D. Loeb in a released statement. “While our contracts, enforcement, partnerships, and advocacy are designed to address dozens of types of hazards, firearms on set present unique risks that require specialized knowledge and experience to mitigate. Larry Zanoff and Brook Yeaton bring unparalleled expertise and a shared commitment to protecting safety in our industry. Their involvement will ensure safety remains at the forefront of everything we do.”
Following the October 2021 “Rust” accident, star and producer Alec Baldwin, who was handling the prop gun at the time of the accident, was charged with manslaughter but the case was dismissed on the grounds that the prosecution had failed to turn over evidence. “Rust” armorer Hannah Gutierrez Reed is serving an 18-month sentence for Hutchins’ death.
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