SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher is urging members to consider authorizing a strike against the video game industry, citing a potential risk to LGBTQ progress. The guild, currently on strike against the film and TV industries, could extend its strike to gaming companies if approved by a vote. While voting for a strike authorization does not automatically mean a strike will occur, it grants the board permission to call for a strike if necessary.
Negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and video game companies have been ongoing for almost a year, but the guild claims the companies are unwilling to meet their needs in critical areas. Two key issues in the film and TV strike, wages and the use of artificial intelligence, also feature prominently in the potential gaming industry strike. SAG-AFTRA is seeking identical pay raises of 11% in the first year and 4% in the subsequent years for both contracts to account for inflation. Additionally, the guild argues that unregulated AI usage poses a significant threat to performers in the gaming industry.
The video game companies assert that they seek a fair contract that acknowledges the valuable contributions of SAG-AFTRA-represented performers in an industry that brings entertainment to billions of players worldwide. They claim to be bargaining in good faith and strive to reach a mutually beneficial agreement promptly.
This latest development comes as SAG-AFTRA has been striking against the film and TV sectors since July 14. Back in 2016-17, the guild’s strike against the gaming companies lasted 183 days. Fran Drescher’s call for solidarity aims to emphasize the importance of addressing the concerns of SAG-AFTRA members within the video game industry.
For more details on the strike authorization and Fran Drescher’s message, please watch the video here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to the Above News
Why is SAG-AFTRA considering a strike against the video game industry?
SAG-AFTRA is considering a strike against the video game industry because the guild believes that negotiations with the companies have been ongoing for almost a year without the companies meeting their needs in critical areas.
What are the key issues that SAG-AFTRA wants addressed in the potential gaming industry strike?
The key issues in the potential gaming industry strike are wages and the use of artificial intelligence. SAG-AFTRA is seeking identical pay raises of 11% in the first year and 4% in subsequent years for both contracts to account for inflation. Additionally, the guild argues that unregulated AI usage poses a significant threat to performers in the gaming industry.
How do video game companies respond to SAG-AFTRA's claims?
Video game companies assert that they are seeking a fair contract that acknowledges the valuable contributions of SAG-AFTRA-represented performers in an industry that brings entertainment to billions of players worldwide. They claim to be bargaining in good faith and strive to reach a mutually beneficial agreement promptly.
How long has SAG-AFTRA been striking against the film and TV sectors, and how long did their previous strike against the gaming industry last?
SAG-AFTRA has been striking against the film and TV sectors since July 14. Their previous strike against the gaming industry lasted 183 days from 2016 to 2017.
What is the purpose of Fran Drescher's call for solidarity in the video game industry?
Fran Drescher's call for solidarity aims to emphasize the importance of addressing the concerns of SAG-AFTRA members within the video game industry and to urge members to consider authorizing a strike if necessary.
Please note that the FAQs provided on this page are based on the news article published. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is always recommended to consult relevant authorities or professionals before making any decisions or taking action based on the FAQs or the news article.