Hollywood actors have joined TV and film writers on picket lines as the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) announced a strike order for its actors. The negotiations between the union and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which represents major studios and streaming networks, failed to reach an agreement. The issues at stake include wage increases, residuals in streaming, the use of artificial intelligence (AI), and virtual auditions.
The entertainment industry has undergone fundamental changes with the rise of streaming platforms, and SAG-AFTRA argues that actors should be compensated accordingly. The union pushed for wage increases to account for recent inflation and an additional residuals formula to reward actors for successful shows. They also expressed concerns about the use of AI, particularly the ability for studios to use the likeness of background actors without pay or consent. Virtual auditions have become more prevalent, requiring actors to invest time and money into self-taping auditions.
The strike has had a significant impact on the industry, with productions shutting down and actors barred from their usual duties, including acting and promoting their projects. It is estimated that 80% of production has already been halted. While streaming giants like Netflix may be less affected due to their international reach and lower costs, legacy companies like Paramount may face greater challenges.
The strike by actors adds leverage to the ongoing strike by TV and film writers, as SAG-AFTRA is significantly larger than the Writers Guild. However, there is bitterness and mistrust on both sides, making a swift resolution unlikely. The strikes are expected to continue into the fall, potentially causing further economic consequences. Crew members and the broader ecosystem of the film and TV industry are also affected, leading to a ripple effect on the economy.
Overall, the negotiations and subsequent strike highlight the changing dynamics and challenges faced by actors in the evolving entertainment industry. The outcome of these disputes will have implications not only for the rights and compensation of actors and writers but also for the wider economy.