SAG-AFTRA is gearing up for a potential strike next week, and they’re not taking it lightly. In a bold move, the guild took to social media on Friday to declare, “If a strike becomes necessary, we’re ready.” This would be the first strike by actors against the film and TV industry since 1980, when SAG and AFTRA joined forces to fight for fair pay-TV and videocassette contracts. That strike lasted over three months, and now, history may repeat itself.
To ensure they’re fully prepared, SAG-AFTRA sent out a survey to its members, asking for volunteers in the event of a walkout. They want to know who’s willing to stand up and fight for their rights. It’s a powerful message, showing their determination and unity.
But the clock is ticking. The guild and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers have until Wednesday to reach a deal. They extended their current contract, which was set to expire on June 30, until July 12 to allow for negotiations. The pressure is on, and both sides know it.
The guild’s members have already shown their overwhelming support for a strike. In a recent vote, 98% of members authorized a strike if a fair deal couldn’t be reached. And they’re not alone in their fight. Over 1,700 members signed a letter urging SAG-AFTRA leaders to stand strong at the bargaining table and even join the Writers Guild on the picket lines. It’s a call for unity in the face of a major “realignment in our industry.”
So, what are the key issues at stake? SAG-AFTRA has made it clear that economic fairness, residuals, regulating the use of artificial intelligence, and alleviating the burdens of self-taping are their top priorities.
When it comes to economic fairness, the guild wants to ensure that their members are properly compensated for their work. Residual payments, in particular, need to reflect the true value of their contributions. It’s about fairness and making sure performers have a meaningful source of earnings.
Artificial intelligence is another concern. The guild recognizes the threat it poses to their members’ work, as AI can mimic their voices, likenesses, and performances. They’re calling for agreements on acceptable uses, protections against misuse, and fair compensation for the use of their work to train AI systems and create new performances. It’s a battle to protect their basic rights.
And let’s not forget about self-taped auditions. The guild believes they’re out of control and need regulation. Performers are burdened with excessive requirements and unreasonable expectations, all without proper compensation. They’re demanding reasonable rules and limitations to ensure fair access to work opportunities and protect performers from exploitation.
As the deadline approaches, tensions rise. Will SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers find common ground? Or will we witness another strike that could reshape the industry? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – SAG-AFTRA is ready to fight for what they believe in.
