On May 2nd, 2023, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) went on strike. About two months later, SAG-AFTRA went on strike. Both guilds are striking against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), which includes studios like Netflix, Paramount, Disney, NBC, Warner Bros and more. To put it plainly, both groups are looking for updated terms for a modern world. Some of the hot button issues are providing livable wages due to inflation and having to compete with artificial intelligence (A.I.).
The strikes are affecting entertainment greatly. No new shows or movies are being filmed or written, and production was halted on everything that was in the process of filming. Advertising has been affected by the strike as well. SAG-AFTRA members are not allowed to promote their work on social media or attend premieres or award shows. This is most likely why the Barbie movie was heavily advertised in anticipation of the strike, which turned out to be majorly successful.
Many people have criticized the strike and demands of these guilds. This is because when people think of movie stars, they think Brad Pitt or Jennifer Aniston. Although those stars are affected by the strike, the majority of SAG members are everyday background actors scraping to get by.
Additionally, most writers and actors want to protect their intellectual property and have jobs available for them. Generative AI is posing a threat to creatives in all fields and there needs to be regulations put in place to protect these occupations. AMPTP seems to have been using AI to their advantage to save a buck here and there, when this multi-billion dollar conglomerate needs to be protecting the little guy.
Both strikes are still ongoing with negotiations happening here and there, but no deal has been made. So, buckle up and rewatch your favorite shows this fall, because there isn't much hope for new television and film for the foreseeable future.
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