Writers Guild of America Approves New Contract with Major Studios
Members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) have voted in favor of a new three-year contract with major studios, bringing an end to a five-month strike that disrupted Hollywood’s film and television production. The deal, which received overwhelming support from 99% of the approximately 8,500 votes, includes pay raises, protections regarding the use of artificial intelligence, and other benefits.
The approval of this contract is a significant achievement for the WGA, as it demonstrates the ability to accomplish what many thought was impossible just six months ago. According to WGA West President Meredith Stiehm, the union and its members stood together and secured important gains for writers.
The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), which represents major media companies such as Disney and Netflix, has acknowledged the contract as a positive step forward for the industry. In a statement, the AMPTP expressed satisfaction with the agreement, emphasizing the importance of writers returning to work.
The strike, which began on May 2, resulted in the shutdown of numerous film and TV sets and caused delays in the production of shows scheduled for the fall broadcast season. However, negotiations between the WGA and the AMPTP led to a tentative agreement, allowing writers to resume work on September 27.
While late-night talk shows such as “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and “Real Time with Bill Maher” have already returned with new episodes, the strike by actors, which started in July, has left many film and TV productions in limbo. Actors are also seeking pay increases, AI protections, and improvements to working conditions. Negotiations between the SAG-AFTRA actors union and studios are ongoing.
The dual strikes have had a significant economic impact, with the California economy estimated to have lost close to $6 billion in output, according to the Milken Institute. Additionally, many crew members have faced financial hardships during this period.
Now, the focus shifts to the negotiations between the AMPTP and the SAG-AFTRA actors union. As WGA East President Lisa Takeuchi Cullen stated, it is crucial for the AMPTP to negotiate a fair contract with the actors to ensure the rest of the industry can return to work.
