By now, you’ve probably heard of the strike wave from the WGA and SAG-AFTRA Strike happening in Hollywood. Important discussions have been raised about the value of creative labor and the need for fair compensation in the evolving landscape of media consumption.
You might be wondering what it’s all about or how you can help. Read on as we update you on the full scoop on this momentous and pivotal moment for entertainment as we know it.
The WGA and SAG-AFTRA Strike Timeline
A set of minimum compensation terms is negotiated by the WGA every three years in order to benefit all writers. In February 2023, union members voted on a proposal standardized compensation for writers.
On March 20th, the the WGA met with AMPTP to negotiate this standardized compensation. However, AMPTP was not willing to agree to fair compensation for writers.
The Writer’s Guild of America’s three year contract expired May 1, 2023.
On the evening of May 1, 2023 the WGA announced that it had voted to call a strike effective 12:01 AM, Tuesday May 2, 2023.
Writers took their picket signs to studio buildings like Sony, Paramount, Warner Bros and more. While most of the strikers were TV writers, many actors showed their support as well.
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SAG-AFTRA Joins WGA: “You Do Not Exist Without Us”
In a historic occurrence, Hollywood actors and writers have gone on strike at the same time, which has brought the majority of film and television productions to a standstill. As a result, many productions have come to a halt, and members are refraining from any publicity, stunt work, and voice acting.
This marks the first instance of such a situation in over 60 years. The ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike reflects the actors’ union’s relentless pursuit of a better contract for scripted TV series and movies.
SAG-AFTRA President, Fran Drescher delivered powerful speech addressing the issues. Watch her statement as she tells movie studios and corporations, “you do not exist without us.”
This strike has more than its fair share of fans.
SAG President Fran Drescher’s speech is a must-watch for workers everywhere
https://t.co/WO0voHzkcz
— lawana gilbert-
(@Kaygirl8Lawana) July 20, 2023
actors showing up to the picket lines week 2:#SAGAFTRAstrike #WGAstrike #UnionStrong pic.twitter.com/efE4MqHYKV
—
@burncoryburn.bsky.social (@burncoryburn) July 20, 2023
What Counts as Scabbing and How Can You Help?
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Exceptions to Every Rule: Productions Approved During the Strike Wave
One thing of note is that not every project is affected by the strike. For example, actors are allowed to take on other jobs in solidarity with the strike. These productions are covered by separate SAG-AFTRA agreements. This includes some of the broadcast network’s upcoming shows.
Another example of this is that independent production companies who produce content in compliance with SAG-AFTRA terms from the latest contract negotiations.
Actors received the green light to participate in these approved productions by Duncan Crabtre-Ireland, the SAG-AFTRA union executive director. Currently, 39 independent productions have been approved to shoot during the strike.
In conclusion, the hard work and dedication of both guilds are instrumental in the success of the strike wave. This collaboration is a testament to the power of collective action. While it may be upsetting that your favorite TV show or movie has been delayed, ensuring writers and actors receive a fair wage and safe work conditions means more amazing shows and movies for years to come.
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