Hollywood Strikes: Actors and Writers Demand Better Pay and Conditions
The Hollywood film industry is in turmoil as actors and writers join forces to demand better pay and working conditions. For the first time in over 60 years, both the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the Writers Guild of America (WGA) have initiated strikes simultaneously.
The Writers Guild of America called for a strike back in May, followed by the SAG-AFTRA strikes in July. The combined impact of these strikes has been significant, causing disruptions to production schedules, financial decline for businesses, and even the rescheduling of major events like the Emmy Awards, which have been postponed.
While strikes are not uncommon in Hollywood, the current wave of action is garnering significant attention. The Barbenheimer buzz intensified last month when A-list casts from blockbuster films stood in solidarity with the striking workers, walking off the red carpet. Now, with actors and writers joining forces on picket lines, the demonstrations are making headlines like never before.
The SAG-AFTRA strike, initiated in July, primarily focuses on achieving better pay and working conditions for actors. The strikers are picketing film and television production companies, particularly highlighting contract provisions concerning artificial intelligence and residual payments tied to streaming service viewership.
According to CBS News, a staggering 50% of SAG-AFTRA members earn less than $26,000 (£20k) per year from acting, making them ineligible for guild health insurance. In response, actors from all income brackets are banding together to call for better compensation.
While the SAG-AFTRA strike may be relatively new, the WGA strike has been ongoing for three months, with members picketing since May. The WGA strike stems from a labor dispute regarding a new contract between the WGA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. Despite the lengthy duration of the strike, an agreement has yet to be reached.
The Writers Guild of America is demanding increased funding, job security, and protection from the impact of artificial intelligence. They aim to limit the use of AI in the writing process to safeguard writers’ creativity and contributions.
A-list celebrities have played a prominent role in supporting the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Cast members from high-profile films like Barbie and Oppenheimer made headlines when they walked off the red carpet during their premieres. Since then, countless celebrities, including Jessica Chastain, Olivia Wilde, America Ferrera, Jameela Jamil, and Susan Sarandon, have been actively participating in picketing and demonstrating in Los Angeles and London.
The united front of actors and writers in the industry has garnered support and solidarity from privileged individuals who recognize their good fortune. Actress Jessica Chastain emphasized the importance of standing alongside those fighting for a living wage, while actor Zac Braff highlighted that only 12% of SAG-AFTRA members make the minimum $26,000 required for health insurance. These stars and many more are leveraging their positions to advocate for fair contracts and better treatment for their fellow professionals.
As the strikes continue, there is a long road ahead. However, the resolve and determination displayed by the protesters, along with the widespread support from within the industry, convey a message that change must come. The Hollywood film industry stands at a crossroads, and with both actors and writers united, their voices are resonating louder than ever.
