Screenwriters in the United States appear to be on the verge of resolving their nearly five-month-long strike, as they announce a tentative deal with studio executives. The Writers Guild of America (WGA) expressed optimism a bout the agreement, emphasizing its significance in securing better terms and protections for writers. However, it’s important to note that WGA members still need to provide their final approval.
This strike has made history as one of the longest work stoppages in Hollywood in many years, significantly disrupting film and TV production across the industry. In addition to the screenwriters, actors are also involved in a separate labor dispute.
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The writers’ walkout commenced on May 2nd and has taken a toll on the US economy, with an estimated cost of approximately $5 billion, according to economist Kevin Klowden from the Milken Institute.
The impact of this dispute has been felt across the entertainment landscape, resulting in the suspension of numerous beloved shows such as “The Last of Us,” “Billions,” “Stranger Things,” “The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Hacks,” “Severance,” “Yellowjackets,” “Abbott Elementary,” and several daytime and late-night talk shows.
Beyond concerns related to compensation, writers have also expressed apprehension about the potential threat of artificial intelligence replacing their creative talents.
Negotiations hit a snag due to disagreements surrounding staffing levels and the royalties that writers receive for successful streaming series. Writers have voiced their dissatisfaction with these residuals, as they are considerably lower compared to what they would earn from a broadcast TV show.
In the past, when their shows were rerun on a broadcast network, writers would typically receive supplementary payments. However, this customary arrangement was disrupted with the emergence of streaming platforms.
Consequently, the compensation writers currently receive includes a certain portion intended to make up for the royalties they no longer receive from broadcast reruns.
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) leadership and its union members are currently in the process of finalizing a three-year contract with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers before they officially end their strike.
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While the proposed deal is still awaiting some final touches, the WGA has made an important announcement, stating that they are not yet calling off the strike, but they are suspending picketing activities starting today.
Variety, a prominent Hollywood trade publication, reported that staff working on late-night talk shows could potentially return to work as early as Tuesday following this announcement, with broadcasts resuming as soon as October.
However, in a message addressed to its members, the union’s negotiating committee has requested patience regarding the specifics of the agreement. They emphasized the need for their staff to ensure that all the agreed-upon terms are properly incorporated into the final contract language.
The union further added, “While we are eager to share the details of what has been achieved with you, we cannot do so until every last detail is thoroughly addressed.”
‘Strength and Resilience’
The strike in the entertainment industry has had a widespread impact, affecting various related sectors such as catering services, costume suppliers, carpentry teams, and camera operators.
Notably, in recent days, top executives from major players like Netflix, Disney, Universal, and Warner Bros Discovery have taken a hands-on approach by personally participating in the negotiations. This direct involvement from industry leaders has injected fresh momentum into the discussions.
Actors have been in the midst of their strike since mid-July, with their interests represented by the formidable 160,000-strong SAG-AFTRA performers’ union.
The performers’ union has extended congratulations to the striking writers for their successful outcome and commended their remarkable display of strength, resilience, and solidarity throughout the grueling 146-day strike.
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In their statement, they also emphasized their unwavering support for the writers by standing with them on the picket lines. It’s important to note that SAG-AFTRA members are still engaged in their own strike regarding the TV/Theatrical contract. They continue to urge CEOs of studios and streaming platforms, as well as the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), to return to the negotiating table and provide the fair deal that their members rightly deserve and demand.
Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, expressed his gratitude for the pivotal role writers play in shaping California’s entertainment industry. He welcomed the news of the two sides reaching an agreement that benefits all parties involved and holds the potential to revitalize a significant segment of California’s economy.
Hollywood Reacts
The news of a successful deal in Hollywood has been met with warm applause from writers and various industry figures.
Renowned US comedian, writer, and chat show host Larry Wilmore couldn’t contain his excitement, expressing it with a simple “Finally!!”
Alex Zaragoza, a writer for Amazon Freevee series “Primo,” shared heartfelt sentiments about the challenging yet necessary strike. She praised the collective effort, saying, “This strike has been so hard. Necessary and invigorating, and really hard. But we did it! We fought together.” Zaragoza also extended her gratitude to strike captains who tirelessly supported the cause during the 146-day strike, ensuring everyone stayed hydrated, informed, protected from the sun, safe from traffic, and most importantly, encouraged. She ended her message with a heartfelt “Love y’all!!”
Caroline Renard, a writer for Disney’s “Secrets Of Sulphur Springs,” also joined in the celebration, announcing, “We got a deal.” She described it as one of the most challenging experiences she’s had in a while and signed off as “Captain,” signifying the end of her role in the strike.
Actors have also expressed their support and enthusiasm for the recent developments. Michael Chiklis, known for his role in “The Shield,” hailed the news as “Phenomenal” and urged everyone to see it through so that they can all return to work.
Sheryl Lee Ralph, who stars in “Abbott Elementary,” congratulated the Writers Guild of America (WGA) for reaching a tentative agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) after a lengthy 146 days on the picket lines. She underscored SAG-AFTRA’s commitment to achieving favorable terms for their members when it’s their turn to negotiate.
Before news of the potential resolution of the writers’ strike emerged, James Norton, known for his role in “Happy Valley,” spoke about the far-reaching impact of both the writers’ and actors’ strikes on the industry’s workforce. During an appearance at the San Sebastian International Film Festival, where he was granted permission by Sag-Aftra to promote an independent film, Norton emphasized the hardship experienced by many crew members. He highlighted that various departments, from caterers to grips and sparks, were all significantly affected. Norton acknowledged the sacrifices these workers were making on behalf of others and expressed concern that their situation might not change much even with the recent developments.
