John DiMaggio speaks out on his Futurama contract negotiations: "It's about self-respect"

Variety

In a statement posted to Twitter Tuesday evening, the Bender actor explained why he hasn't signed on for Hulu's recently announced revival. DiMaggio said he believed the entire cast should be paid more for the Hulu series, while decrying a "far too corporate" industry that "takes advantage of artist's time & talent." “I’ve been thinking about everything that’s been going on these past months and just to be clear, I don’t think that only I deserve to be paid more. I think the entire cast does,” DiMaggio wrote in his statement. “Negotiations are a natural part of working in show business. Everyone has a different strategy & different boundaries. Their 'price.' Some accept offers, some hold their ground. Bender is part of my soul and nothing about this is meant to be disrespectful to the fans or my Futurama family. It’s about self-respect. And honestly, (it’s about) being tired of an industry that’s become far too corporate and takes advantage of artists’ time and talent… I wish I could give you every detail so you would understand, but it’s not my place. Thanks again for the love everyone. Still hoping for the best.”