Hollywood Strike Negotiations Continue Amid Disputes Over Streaming Revenue and AI Use
After over 100 days, negotiations between Hollywood studios and the actors’ union, SAG-AFTRA, are still ongoing as both sides grapple with disagreements regarding streaming revenue and the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The strike, which began on July 14 when 1.6L TV and film actors joined screenwriters from the Writers Guild of America (WGA) in protest, marks the first dual strike in Hollywood in 63 years.
Represented by the Alliance of Motion Pictures and Television Producers (AMPTP), the studios and streaming platforms are engaged in talks with SAG-AFTRA to find a resolution. While the writers’ union reached a tentative agreement with the studios, the actors’ union continues to negotiate. SAG-AFTRA presented its latest counteroffer on October 11 and recently met with top studio executives.
At the heart of the negotiations is SAG-AFTRA’s proposal regarding streaming services. The union suggests that platforms should pay 57 cents for each subscriber, with the money being used to establish a fund for SAG-AFTRA members. However, AMPTP sees this proposal as an untenable economic burden. SAG-AFTRA argues that it is necessary to provide additional income to members involved in projects that are streamed online.
In addition to streaming revenues, there is also a lack of agreement on AI safeguards in the entertainment industry and minimum pay rate increases for the next three years. Both sides are under pressure to find a solution as the strike has already caused significant economic damage, with California’s economy reportedly suffering a $6.5B loss and the industry shedding 45,000 jobs.
The ongoing negotiations have seen a continuous exchange of proposals and counteroffers. However, reaching a consensus remains elusive as both parties have differing perspectives and interests. While the studios emphasize the economic impact of the proposed streaming revenue model, SAG-AFTRA prioritizes the financial well-being of its members. With discussions still underway, the industry awaits a breakthrough that will bring an end to the strike and restore stability.
In conclusion, Hollywood strike negotiations between studios and SAG-AFTRA continue as they grapple with disputes over streaming revenue and AI use. Despite the economic damage caused by the strike and the efforts to find common ground, a resolution has yet to be reached. As negotiations persist, the industry hopes for a swift resolution that will benefit all parties involved and restore the normal functioning of the entertainment business.
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