It took well over 100 days but SAG-AFTRA has finally reached a tentative agreement with the AMPTP in order to end the strike.
The agreement comes just over a month after the WGA strike came to an end. While the 2023-2024 season is unlikely to be salvaged, many in the industry will be happy to have work again. The strike didn’t just impact actors and crew. Strike rules meant that actors could not do any press during the strike. Many projects were able to sign an interim agreement but it’s the blockbuster titles that generally get the views. Studios couldn’t be happier because awards season is already in full gear and now they can have actors appearing at FYC Q&As and receptions.
Having actors able to promote on social media will certainly make a big difference for the box office. It was one thing when writers could not do any junkets because actors could promote those projects. While both guilds were on strike, it definitely had an impact. Imagine opening a film and not having anyone available to do press other than the director. It’s not easy.
SAG-AFTRA released some details about the new three-year contract.
In a contract valued at over one billion dollars, we have achieved a deal of extraordinary scope that includes “above-pattern” minimum compensation increases, unprecedented provisions for consent and compensation that will protect members from the threat of AI, and for the first time establishes a streaming participation bonus. Our Pension & Health caps have been substantially raised, which will bring much needed value to our plans. In addition, the deal includes numerous improvements for multiple categories including outsize compensation increases for background performers, and critical contract provisions protecting diverse communities.
The guild will not release more contract details until after the SAG-AFTRA National Board reviews it. Hollywood will certainly be celebrating as much as one can right now.
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