The day after the 2023 Emmy Awards nominations were revealed, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) announced an official strike, set to begin just after midnight on Friday, July 14th.

This strike marks the first time film and television performers have initiated a work stoppage since 1980. The strike happened when the entertainment industry’s top studios, represented by a trade association, and SAG-AFTRA could not reach an agreement on a new contract addressing issues such as pay, residuals, and health benefits. Moreover, industry experts estimate that the strike could cost billions of dollars and potentially harm the economy.

Who are the players?

SAG-AFTRA is in a dispute with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). AMPTP represents entertainment giants such as Disney, Netflix, Paramount, Warner Bros. Discovery, and NBCUniversal, the parent company of NBC News.

SAG-AFTRA formed in 2012 through the merger of the Screen Actors Guild (founded in 1933) and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. The combined guild represents approximately 160,000 performers, ranging from Oscar-winning A-list stars like Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep to radio personalities and television presenters.

What do the actors want?

• SAG-AFTRA wants a new contract with AMPTP that addresses the economic realities of streaming and emerging digital technologies.
• The guild wants increased base compensation for performers, which has declined due to the decline of residuals.

• SAG-AFTRA is also concerned about AI, which could be used to create digital composites of popular stars.
• The guild wants to protect actors from unauthorized use of their voices, likenesses, and performances.
• Drescher said her team is fighting for performers who are “severely eroded” by streaming and AI. Writers’ complaints are similar to those of screenwriters, who fear AI could replace their human labor.

What do the studios say?

Late Wednesday, negotiations stalled, and a strike became more likely. The AMPTP expressed “deep disappointment,” accusing SAG-AFTRA of walking away from talks. They offered various concessions, but SAG-AFTRA decided to discontinue negotiations, potentially causing financial hardships for industry workers.

Disney CEO Bob Iger criticized actors and writers for unrealistic expectations during ongoing Covid recovery. An anonymous studio executive’s quote, reported by Deadline, caused dismay among entertainment workers on social media. The executive mentioned an “endgame” to prolong the situation until union members face housing losses.