After 118 days, the longest actors' strike in Hollywood history has ended, as negotiators from SAG-AFTRA and film and TV studios have finally found common ground on higher minimum wages and protections against AI, among others.
The strike, which began over issues ranging from wage increases to protections against the use of AI-generated images, reportedly concluded at midnight on Thursday.
"We have arrived at a contract that will enable SAG-AFTRA members from every category to build sustainable careers. Many thousands of performers now and into the future will benefit from this work," the union said in a statement posted on X.
The union's negotiating committee reached a unanimous decision in favor of the agreement, which will now be presented to the SAG-AFTRA national board for final approval on Friday.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 08: SAG-AFTRA members and supporters chant outside Paramount Studios on day 118 of their strike against the Hollywood studios on November 8, 2023 in Los Angeles, California.
Why SAG-AFTRA is Demanding Protection From AI
Among the key highlights of the agreement is the inclusion of safeguards for actors in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). This provision marks the first-ever protection of its kind in the industry.
Additionally, the deal secures a historic pay increase, with most minimums set to rise by 7%. This figure notably surpasses the raises granted to the Writers Guild of America and the Directors Guild of America, which received two percent lower increases.
In the statement released by SAG-AFTRA, the union expressed their satisfaction with the outcome of the negotiations. The statement also touched on the contract's far-reaching impact, valued at over $1 billion.
It outlined various aspects of the deal, including the "above-pattern" compensation hikes, provisions safeguarding members from AI-related threats, and the introduction of a streaming participation bonus. The agreement also significantly raises the caps for pension and health benefits, providing added value to the plans.
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New Contract
While detailed specifics of the agreement will be made available after the SAG-AFTRA National Board review, the union highlighted the substantial improvements for various categories within the industry.
Background performers, in particular, are set to benefit from sizable compensation increases. The agreement also includes critical provisions aimed at protecting diverse communities.
Ultimately, the new contract is positioned to empower SAG-AFTRA members across all categories, offering them a foundation for sustainable careers.
This development promises to benefit numerous performers, both present and future. The union also extended gratitude to the broader workforce within the industry, acknowledging their solidarity and support during the strike period.
They emphasized the unity between SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America, underlining their commitment to standing together in times of need.
SAG-AFTRA's demands throughout the strike encompassed a range of key issues, including general wage increases, protections against the use of AI-generated actor images, enhanced compensation for successful streaming programs, and improvements in health and retirement benefits.
The negotiation of these terms signifies a significant milestone for the union and the broader entertainment industry after a long-standing strike.
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