Late Sunday night, the much hoped-for deal between Hollywood’s writers and studios was finally achieved. Negotiators from the WGA and AMPTP held intense discussions for five straight days, resulting in a deal that is seen as favorable for the writers, addressing all the key priorities set out by the WGA at the onset of the strike.
Writers will see significant gains in wages, requirements for minimum staffing levels, protection from AI, and an updated model for calculating residuals on films and series distributed on streaming platforms.
Many were skeptical that the WGA would be successful in gaining studio commitments on these issues, especially minimum staffing and residuals. However, it became clear that studios had become eager to end the strike as they were feeling increasing pressure from the shutdown of production.
Soon after announcing an agreement with the writers, the studios scheduled a new round of talks with the actors to begin on Monday, October 2nd. Most watchers expect similar terms will be agreed to between the AMPTP and SAG-AFTRA. When they do, it will bring to an end a tumultuous period for the entertainment industry.
SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP to Resume Strike Negotiations on Monday (Variety)