Animation in Jeopardy: Bob’s Burgers Future at Risk Amidst Hollywood Strikes
The ongoing strikes by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) have had far-reaching implications in the entertainment industry. While the strikes primarily focus on writers and actors, the world of animation has also been significantly impacted, with shows like Bob’s Burgers facing an uncertain future.
Unlike most animators who are part of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) union and not participating in strikes, animation writers are predominantly members of the WGA. As a result, animated series such as Bob’s Burgers have been hit hard, as there are no new scripts available for production.
A storyboard animator for the popular Fox series shed light on the crisis in a TikTok post, revealing that Bob’s Burgers has exhausted its supply of scripts. The artist, who remains anonymous, explained that her lack of employment was solely due to the strike. She further elaborated on the implications for season 14, which was scheduled to premiere in October.
We are officially out of scripts to work on on Bob’s Burgers, the TikToker revealed. Typically, animated series rely on written scripts that animators bring to life. With the writers on strike, the remaining episodes for the upcoming season are limited. The artist confirmed that only the 17 completed episodes would be available for fans.
While the animator expressed hope for a swift resolution to the strike, concerns about the future of the industry persist. The issue of Artificial Intelligence (AI) looms large, with actors fighting against the unauthorized use of their likeness in AI-generated content. Recent instances, such as WandaVision, where background cast members were scanned without their consent, have raised fears among those in the industry.
The storyboard artist pointed out that if studios can exploit AI technology to replace animators, it may lead to a substantial reduction in the workforce. The strike, therefore, has broader implications beyond the immediate labor disputes, playing a vital role in shaping the future of narrative film and television.
The strike stands as a critical battle for the industry, highlighting the need for fair compensation, protection of intellectual property, and ensuring that workers’ rights are respected. Voices from various corners of Hollywood emphasize the importance of addressing AI-related concerns and safeguarding the livelihoods of all those involved.
As fans eagerly await updates on the strike and the future of Bob’s Burgers, it is essential for the entertainment industry to find a resolution that addresses the concerns of all parties involved. The impact of the strikes on animation demonstrates the interconnectedness of labor disputes and the potential ramifications they have throughout the industry.
Ultimately, the hope remains that a fair agreement will be reached, bringing an end to the strike and allowing artists, writers, and actors to resume their work, creating the content that audiences love. Until then, the animation industry, including beloved shows like Bob’s Burgers, remains at risk, waiting for a resolution that will ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for all involved.
