<p>Hollywood was under the shadow of a historic labour strike since May 2. This protracted standoff pitted the Writers Guild of America (WGA) against the influential Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), representing major film and television studios. Later, in July, actors' union SAG-AFTRA also kicked off a strike of their own, making it the first 'double strike' since 1960s. The WGA strike meanwhile was marked by its duration and far-reaching implications, and also cast a spotlight on critical issues such as wage disparities and apprehensions surrounding the burgeoning role of artificial intelligence (AI) in creative processes. Now, an agreement brokered by the writers with Hollywood holds the potential to serve as a guiding model for &nbsp;SAG-AFTRA's ongoing negotiations with AMPTP.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-hollywood-writers-guild-officially-calls-off-months-long-strike-639986">Hollywood writers' guild officially calls off months-long strike</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>WGA's deal and its implications for SAG-AFTRA strike</strong></h2>

<p>WGA achieved a significant breakthrough when they reached an agreement with the studios on September 24. The agreement includes provisions for improved minimum pay, augmented streaming residuals, and essential safeguards to ensure that AI cannot undermine a writer's credit. This development has sparked optimism among the striking actors, hinting at the possibility of resolving their differences with the studios.</p>

<p>Historically, deals struck by one union within the entertainment industry have often set a template for subsequent negotiations with other unions. This practice has evolved from the desire for equitable treatment and fair compensation for all industry professionals. As writer and actor Mel Shimkovitz stated to Reuters while picketing outside Netflix, "I hear it's an exceptional deal and historically, whatever deal they give to one union, the next union uses as a template for their own deal."</p>

<h2><strong>Writers' potential return to work</strong></h2>

<p>With the agreement in place, the WGA has indicated that writers could potentially return to work as early as the following Wednesday, pending a final vote to ratify the contract. This development would signal the resumption of talk shows and writing activities. However, the resumption of filming remains contingent on the actors reaching their own labour agreement.</p>

<p>Negotiators for the SAG-AFTRA have not engaged in talks with AMPTP. Nonetheless, entertainment industry executives remain hopeful that negotiations will resume soon, possibly within the coming week.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/writers-strike-could-soon-end-as-both-sides-reach-agreement-639381/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Shared concerns between writers and actors</strong></h2>

<p>Actors and writers have been vocal about shared concerns during these labour disputes. A prominent issue revolves around safeguarding their contributions from being supplanted by "digital replicas" generated through AI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both groups are also seeking compensation that accurately reflects their value in the era of streaming, with a focus on revenue sharing. The rise of streaming platforms has fundamentally transformed the entertainment landscape. While it has brought new opportunities and a vast array of content to audiences worldwide, it has also posed challenges regarding compensation and job security for those who create this content. Writers and actors alike are grappling with the question of how to fairly distribute the revenues generated in this digital era.</p>

<p>One of the other core issues at the heart of these labour disputes is residuals — the additional payments made to writers and actors when their work is reused or streamed. Residuals have been a traditional source of income for industry professionals, but the shift to streaming platforms has raised questions about the adequacy of these payments. Both writers and actors are seeking a more equitable share of the revenue generated by their content on streaming services.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hollywood-writers-strike-officially-ends-after-148-days-640045/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Another pressing concern that writers and actors share is the encroachment of AI in the creative process. While AI has the potential to streamline certain aspects of content creation, it also raises fears of job displacement and the erosion of creative autonomy. Both groups are keen to ensure that AI remains a tool to assist human creativity rather than a replacement for it.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained--hollywood-writers-strike-nears-its-end-what-happens-now-639896">Explained | Hollywood writers' strike nears its end: What happens now?</a></strong></p>

<h2>Additional actor demands</h2>

<p>In addition to these shared concerns, SAG-AFTRA has articulated other demands. Actors are pushing for limitations on self-taped auditions in casting, asserting that these are more costly than in-person readings. They are also advocating for increased diversity and inclusivity in the industry, specifically by seeking hair and makeup artists capable of working with various hair textures and skin tones to ensure equitable treatment. Moreover, actors are striving for greater flexibility in working during extended breaks between TV show seasons.</p>

<p>Within SAG-AFTRA, there are various categories of performers, each with its unique demands. Dancers, singers, background actors, and stunt performers, for instance, have their specific requirements, adding complexity to the negotiations.</p>

<h2><strong>A unified resolve</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the challenges and diverse demands, SAG-AFTRA remains unified in its pursuit of a fair contract. As they posted on Tuesday night, accompanied by pictures of Pedro Pascal, Bob Odenkirk, and others on the picket lines, "Our fight isn't over — it's just heating up! We're committed to securing a fair contract because we deserve nothing less. Let's keep pushing, keep fighting, and show the world our determination!"</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-writers-and-studies-reach-tentative-deal-to-end-months-long-strike-639285">Hollywood writers and studios reach tentative deal to end months-long strike</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>A blueprint for future negotiations</strong></h2>

<p>As the writers' tentative agreement now stands as a potential blueprint for future negotiations, its terms and provisions will be scrutinised closely by both actors and industry insiders. The implications of the deal, especially in the context of the streaming era and the evolving role of AI, will reverberate throughout Hollywood.</p>

<h2><strong>What does the future hold?</strong></h2>

<p>As the writers' strike approaches resolution, the entertainment industry watches closely, anticipating how this milestone may shape the future for actors and all stakeholders in Hollywood. These developments mark not just a chapter in Hollywood's history but a critical juncture in the ongoing evolution of the entertainment industry in the digital age.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Hollywood was under the shadow of a historic labour strike since May 2. This protracted standoff pitted the Writers Guild of America (WGA) against the influential Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), representing major film and television studios.

Hollywood was under the shadow of a historic labour strike since May 2. This protracted standoff pitted the Writers Guild of America (WGA) against the influential Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), representing major film and television studios. Later, in July, actors' union SAG-AFTRA also kicked off a strike of their own, making it the first 'double strike' since 1960s. The WGA strike meanwhile was marked by its duration and far-reaching implications, and also cast a spotlight on critical issues such as wage disparities and apprehensions surrounding the burgeoning role of artificial intelligence (AI) in creative processes. Now, an agreement brokered by the writers with Hollywood holds the potential to serve as a guiding model for SAG-AFTRA's ongoing negotiations with AMPTP. Also Read | Hollywood writers' guild officially calls off months-long strike WGA's deal and its implications for SAG-AFTRA strike WGA achieved a significant breakthrough when they reached an agreement with the studios on September 24. The agreement includes provisions for improved minimum pay, augmented streaming residuals, and essential safeguards to ensure that AI cannot undermine a writer's credit. This development has sparked optimism among the striking actors, hinting at the possibility of resolving their differences with the studios. Historically, deals struck by one union within the entertainment industry have often set a template for subsequent negotiations with other unions. This practice has evolved from the desire for equitable treatment and fair compensation for all industry professionals. As writer and actor Mel Shimkovitz stated to Reuters while picketing outside Netflix, "I hear it's an exceptional deal and historically, whatever deal they give to one union, the next union uses as a template for their own deal." Writers' potential return to work With the agreement in place, the WGA has indicated that writers could potentially return to work as early as the following Wednesday, pending a final vote to ratify the contract. This development would signal the resumption of talk shows and writing activities. However, the resumption of filming remains contingent on the actors reaching their own labour agreement. Negotiators for the SAG-AFTRA have not engaged in talks with AMPTP. Nonetheless, entertainment industry executives remain hopeful that negotiations will resume soon, possibly within the coming week. Shared concerns between writers and actors Actors and writers have been vocal about shared concerns during these labour disputes. A prominent issue revolves around safeguarding their contributions from being supplanted by "digital replicas" generated through AI. Both groups are also seeking compensation that accurately reflects their value in the era of streaming, with a focus on revenue sharing. The rise of streaming platforms has fundamentally transformed the entertainment landscape. While it has brought new opportunities and a vast array of content to audiences worldwide, it has also posed challenges regarding compensation and job security for those who create this content. Writers and actors alike are grappling with the question of how to fairly distribute the revenues generated in this digital era. One of the other core issues at the heart of these labour disputes is residuals — the additional payments made to writers and actors when their work is reused or streamed. Residuals have been a traditional source of income for industry professionals, but the shift to streaming platforms has raised questions about the adequacy of these payments. Both writers and actors are seeking a more equitable share of the revenue generated by their content on streaming services. Another pressing concern that writers and actors share is the encroachment of AI in the creative process. While AI has the potential to streamline certain aspects of content creation, it also raises fears of job displacement and the erosion of creative autonomy. Both groups are keen to ensure that AI remains a tool to assist human creativity rather than a replacement for it. Also Read | Explained | Hollywood writers' strike nears its end: What happens now? Additional actor demands In addition to these shared concerns, SAG-AFTRA has articulated other demands. Actors are pushing for limitations on self-taped auditions in casting, asserting that these are more costly than in-person readings. They are also advocating for increased diversity and inclusivity in the industry, specifically by seeking hair and makeup artists capable of working with various hair textures and skin tones to ensure equitable treatment. Moreover, actors are striving for greater flexibility in working during extended breaks between TV show seasons. Within SAG-AFTRA, there are various categories of performers, each with its unique demands. Dancers, singers, background actors, and stunt performers, for instance, have their specific requirements, adding complexity to the negotiations. A unified resolve Despite the challenges and diverse demands, SAG-AFTRA remains unified in its pursuit of a fair contract. As they posted on Tuesday night, accompanied by pictures of Pedro Pascal, Bob Odenkirk, and others on the picket lines, "Our fight isn't over — it's just heating up! We're committed to securing a fair contract because we deserve nothing less. Let's keep pushing, keep fighting, and show the world our determination!" Also Read | Hollywood writers and studios reach tentative deal to end months-long strike A blueprint for future negotiations As the writers' tentative agreement now stands as a potential blueprint for future negotiations, its terms and provisions will be scrutinised closely by both actors and industry insiders. The implications of the deal, especially in the context of the streaming era and the evolving role of AI, will reverberate throughout Hollywood. What does the future hold? As the writers' strike approaches resolution, the entertainment industry watches closely, anticipating how this milestone may shape the future for actors and all stakeholders in Hollywood. These developments mark not just a chapter in Hollywood's history but a critical juncture in the ongoing evolution of the entertainment industry in the digital age. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | WGA deal — a blueprint for Hollywood actors' strike resolution?

<p>Artificial intelligence is currently gaining a lot of attention worldwide, particularly in Hollywood, where thousands of actors and writers are on strike, demanding regulations concerning AI. In the midst of this, actress Whoopi Goldberg shared her thoughts on the growing use of modern technology.<br />
<br />
During a Hot Topics chat on the recent episode of <em>The View</em> with Neil deGrasse Tyson, the actress had a very deep discussion on AI as she went on to share that she doesn't want to be recreated by AI.<br />
<br />
Goldberg said, "I don't want AI duplicating me. That's what I don't want,".</p>

<p>Reacting to the actress's view, Sara Haines joked, "Oh, we could never get two of you, Whoops." Cohost Joy Behar added, "One is enough" with a laugh.</p>

<p>Further referencing to the SAG-AFTRA strike, Goldberg said, "But, think about what they're doing in cinema."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added, "They can duplicate folks, and you don't know who's who or which one is real."<br />
<br />
Last month, Goldberg shared that she doesn't want a hologram of herself after her death.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
She has mandated in her will that nobody ever make a digital hologram featuring her likeness following her death.</p>

<p>On <em>The View </em>episode, Goldberg, 67, said, "Yeah, no, I don't want to be a hologram, but that's been in my will for 15 years."</p>

<h2><strong>SAG-AFTRA strike&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The SAG-AFTRA strike began last month. Thousands of actors have joined the ongoing writer's strike, which started two months ago. The union of actors began the strike after SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) and AMPTP (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers), failed to reach a deal. The union of actors is demanding fair pay and a guarantee from the studios that they will not replace them with the help of artificial intelligence (AI).<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Artificial intelligence is currently gaining a lot of attention worldwide, particularly in Hollywood, where thousands of actors and writers are on strike, demanding regulations concerning AI.

Artificial intelligence is currently gaining a lot of attention worldwide, particularly in Hollywood, where thousands of actors and writers are on strike, demanding regulations concerning AI. In the midst of this, actress Whoopi Goldberg shared her thoughts on the growing use of modern technology. During a Hot Topics chat on the recent episode of The View with Neil deGrasse Tyson, the actress had a very deep discussion on AI as she went on to share that she doesn't want to be recreated by AI. Goldberg said, "I don't want AI duplicating me. That's what I don't want,". Reacting to the actress's view, Sara Haines joked, "Oh, we could never get two of you, Whoops." Cohost Joy Behar added, "One is enough" with a laugh. Further referencing to the SAG-AFTRA strike, Goldberg said, "But, think about what they're doing in cinema." She added, "They can duplicate folks, and you don't know who's who or which one is real." Last month, Goldberg shared that she doesn't want a hologram of herself after her death. She has mandated in her will that nobody ever make a digital hologram featuring her likeness following her death. On The View episode, Goldberg, 67, said, "Yeah, no, I don't want to be a hologram, but that's been in my will for 15 years." SAG-AFTRA strike The SAG-AFTRA strike began last month. Thousands of actors have joined the ongoing writer's strike, which started two months ago. The union of actors began the strike after SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) and AMPTP (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers), failed to reach a deal. The union of actors is demanding fair pay and a guarantee from the studios that they will not replace them with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Actress Whoopi Goldberg says she doesn't want AI to duplicate her ever

<p>Artificial intelligence has surged to the forefront of Hollywood’s labour fights. Standing alongside more traditional disputes over pay models, benefits and job protections, AI technology is the wild card in the contract breakdowns that have led actors and writers' unions to go on strike.</p>

<p>Technology has pushed negotiations into unknown territory, and the language used can sound utopian or dystopian depending on the side of the table. Here’s a look at what the unions and their employers each say they want.</p>

<p><strong>WHY IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SUCH A HOT-BUTTON ISSUE?</strong></p>

<p>As the technology to create without creators emerges, star actors fear they will lose control of their lucrative likenesses. Unknown actors fear they’ll be replaced altogether. Writers fear they’ll have to share credit or lose credit to machines.</p>

<p>The proposed contracts that led to both strikes lasted only three years. Even at the seeming breakneck pace at which AI is moving, it’s doubtful there would be any widespread displacement of writers or actors in that time. But unions and employers know that ground given on an issue in one contract can be hard to reclaim in the next.</p>

<p>Emerging versions of the tech have already filtered into nearly every part of filmmaking, used to de-age actors like Harrison Ford in the latest <em>Indiana Jones</em>&nbsp;film or Mark Hamill in <em>The Mandalorian</em>, to generate the abstracted animated images of Samuel L. Jackson and swirl of several aliens in the intro to <em>Secret Invasion</em>&nbsp;on Disney+, and to give recommendations on Netflix.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-vivek-oberoi-duped-of-rs-15-crore-by-business-partners-fir-registered-618277">Actor Vivek Oberoi duped of Rs 1.55 crore by business partners, FIR registered</a></strong></p>

<p>All sides in the strikes acknowledge that the use of the technology even more broadly is inevitable. That’s why all are looking now to establish legal and creative control.</p>

<p>Actor and writer Johnathan McClain said the battle echoes fights over automation across other industries, but foretells many more to come as tech becomes better.</p>

<p>“It’s easy to marginalize what we do because it’s entertainment,” McClain said on the picket lines outside Warner Bros. Studios. “And I get it. But I feel on some level we are, as far as this tech conversation is concerned, a little bit of a canary in a coal mine. This is an important moment and we’ve got to really make a decisive stand.”</p>

<p><strong>THE ACTORS’ TAKE</strong></p>

<p>AI discussions between the Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which represents employers, went from a theoretical framework to a bitter battle that spilled into the public when the strike broke out on July 13.</p>

<p>In a description widely shared by outraged actors on social media, SAG-AFTRA released this characterization of the studios’ AI position, which the AMPTP called a deliberate distortion:</p>

<p>“We want to be able to scan a background performer’s image, pay them for half a day’s labour, and then use an individual’s likeness for any purpose forever without their consent,” the union said. “We also want to be able to make changes to principal performers’ dialogue, and even create new scenes, without informed consent. And we want to be able to use someone’s images, likenesses, and performances to train new generative AI systems without consent or compensation.”</p>

<p>The AMPTP said in a statement in response that its offers included an “AI proposal which protects performers’ digital likenesses, including a requirement for performers’ consent for the creation and use of digital replicas or for digital alterations of a performance.”</p>

<p>SAG-AFTRA used similar language in describing what they wanted, emphasizing the need to protect “human-created work” including alterations to the “voice, likeness or performance” of an actor.</p>

<p>It may be fitting that “voice” comes first on that list. While many viewers still cringe at the visual avatars of actors like Hamill and Jackson, the aural tech feels further along.</p>

<p>The voices of the late Anthony Bourdain and the late Andy Warhol have both been recreated for recent documentaries.</p>

<p>Union members who make a living doing voiceovers have taken note.</p>

<p><strong>WRITERS WANT THEIR LINE OF CREDIT</strong></p>

<p>In screenwriters’ contract talks, which broke down in early May, the Writers Guild of America said it would allow for the use of AI — but only insofar as it was a tool for them to use in their own work.</p>

<p>They would be willing, potentially, to shape stories with help from AI software. But they do not want it to affect the credits that are essential to their prestige and pay.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-the-boys-spinoff-series-gen-v-gets-premiere-date-everything-to-know-618228">The Boys spinoff series Gen V gets premiere date: Everything to know</a></strong></p>

<p>The guild wants to prevent raw, AI-generated storylines or dialogue from being regarded as “literary material” — a term in their contracts for scripts and other story forms a screenwriter produces. This means they wouldn’t be competing with computers for credit — or for an original screenplay Oscar.</p>

<p>The writers also don’t want those storylines or dialogue to be considered “source material” — their contractual language for the novels, video games or other works that writers may develop into scripts.</p>

<p>The AMPTP said in a document outlining its position that writers “want to be able to use this technology as part of their creative process, without changing how credits are determined, which is complicated given AI material can’t be copyrighted.”</p>

<p>The studios also emphasised that previous writers’ contracts established that any “corporate or impersonal purveyor” of literature is not a screenwriter.</p>

<p>“Only a ‘person’ can be considered a writer,” the AMPTP said. “AI-generated material would not be eligible for writing credit.”</p>

<p>While this position could assuage writers’ worries about sharing credit with AI, it could also lead to no one getting credit when they “collaborate” with AI.</p>

<p>Modern screenwriting contracts, and who gets what credit, are already a bramble that the guild often has to step in and sort out. Detailed legal language is pulled out to determine whose name is preceded by “written by,” whose name comes before “story by” or whose name follows “from characters created by.”</p>

<p>Putting artificial intelligence into the mix threatens to turn each of those terms into an even stickier thicket.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Artificial intelligence has surged to the forefront of Hollywood’s labour fights. Standing alongside more traditional disputes over pay models, benefits and job protections, AI technology is the wild card in the contract breakdowns that have led actors and writers' unions to go on strike.

Artificial intelligence has surged to the forefront of Hollywood’s labour fights. Standing alongside more traditional disputes over pay models, benefits and job protections, AI technology is the wild card in the contract breakdowns that have led actors and writers' unions to go on strike. Technology has pushed negotiations into unknown territory, and the language used can sound utopian or dystopian depending on the side of the table. Here’s a look at what the unions and their employers each say they want. WHY IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SUCH A HOT-BUTTON ISSUE? As the technology to create without creators emerges, star actors fear they will lose control of their lucrative likenesses. Unknown actors fear they’ll be replaced altogether. Writers fear they’ll have to share credit or lose credit to machines. The proposed contracts that led to both strikes lasted only three years. Even at the seeming breakneck pace at which AI is moving, it’s doubtful there would be any widespread displacement of writers or actors in that time. But unions and employers know that ground given on an issue in one contract can be hard to reclaim in the next. Emerging versions of the tech have already filtered into nearly every part of filmmaking, used to de-age actors like Harrison Ford in the latest Indiana Jones film or Mark Hamill in The Mandalorian, to generate the abstracted animated images of Samuel L. Jackson and swirl of several aliens in the intro to Secret Invasion on Disney+, and to give recommendations on Netflix. Also read: Actor Vivek Oberoi duped of Rs 1.55 crore by business partners, FIR registered All sides in the strikes acknowledge that the use of the technology even more broadly is inevitable. That’s why all are looking now to establish legal and creative control. Actor and writer Johnathan McClain said the battle echoes fights over automation across other industries, but foretells many more to come as tech becomes better. “It’s easy to marginalize what we do because it’s entertainment,” McClain said on the picket lines outside Warner Bros. Studios. “And I get it. But I feel on some level we are, as far as this tech conversation is concerned, a little bit of a canary in a coal mine. This is an important moment and we’ve got to really make a decisive stand.” THE ACTORS’ TAKE AI discussions between the Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which represents employers, went from a theoretical framework to a bitter battle that spilled into the public when the strike broke out on July 13. In a description widely shared by outraged actors on social media, SAG-AFTRA released this characterization of the studios’ AI position, which the AMPTP called a deliberate distortion: “We want to be able to scan a background performer’s image, pay them for half a day’s labour, and then use an individual’s likeness for any purpose forever without their consent,” the union said. “We also want to be able to make changes to principal performers’ dialogue, and even create new scenes, without informed consent. And we want to be able to use someone’s images, likenesses, and performances to train new generative AI systems without consent or compensation.” The AMPTP said in a statement in response that its offers included an “AI proposal which protects performers’ digital likenesses, including a requirement for performers’ consent for the creation and use of digital replicas or for digital alterations of a performance.” SAG-AFTRA used similar language in describing what they wanted, emphasizing the need to protect “human-created work” including alterations to the “voice, likeness or performance” of an actor. It may be fitting that “voice” comes first on that list. While many viewers still cringe at the visual avatars of actors like Hamill and Jackson, the aural tech feels further along. The voices of the late Anthony Bourdain and the late Andy Warhol have both been recreated for recent documentaries. Union members who make a living doing voiceovers have taken note. WRITERS WANT THEIR LINE OF CREDIT In screenwriters’ contract talks, which broke down in early May, the Writers Guild of America said it would allow for the use of AI — but only insofar as it was a tool for them to use in their own work. They would be willing, potentially, to shape stories with help from AI software. But they do not want it to affect the credits that are essential to their prestige and pay. Also read: The Boys spinoff series Gen V gets premiere date: Everything to know The guild wants to prevent raw, AI-generated storylines or dialogue from being regarded as “literary material” — a term in their contracts for scripts and other story forms a screenwriter produces. This means they wouldn’t be competing with computers for credit — or for an original screenplay Oscar. The writers also don’t want those storylines or dialogue to be considered “source material” — their contractual language for the novels, video games or other works that writers may develop into scripts. The AMPTP said in a document outlining its position that writers “want to be able to use this technology as part of their creative process, without changing how credits are determined, which is complicated given AI material can’t be copyrighted.” The studios also emphasised that previous writers’ contracts established that any “corporate or impersonal purveyor” of literature is not a screenwriter. “Only a ‘person’ can be considered a writer,” the AMPTP said. “AI-generated material would not be eligible for writing credit.” While this position could assuage writers’ worries about sharing credit with AI, it could also lead to no one getting credit when they “collaborate” with AI. Modern screenwriting contracts, and who gets what credit, are already a bramble that the guild often has to step in and sort out. Detailed legal language is pulled out to determine whose name is preceded by “written by,” whose name comes before “story by” or whose name follows “from characters created by.” Putting artificial intelligence into the mix threatens to turn each of those terms into an even stickier thicket. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

AI is the wild card in Hollywood’s strikes. Here’s an explanation of its unsettling role

<p>It's a showbiz showdown unlike anything seen in more than 40 years. After SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP failed to reach an agreement in the negotiations, the former had declared a historic strike on May 14. Now, Hollywood faced strikes from two major labour unions. A couple of months before, on May 2, Writers Guild of America (WGA) had also initiated a strike against AMPTP on similar issues like lack of adequate compensation and artificial intelligence. Now, SAG-AFTRA has revealed some of the issues on which it clashed with AMPTP. As per The Hollywood Reporter, during the five weeks of negotiations, some progress was made on certain matters such as schedule breaks, compensation for script translation, and self-taped audition restrictions.</p>

<p>However, both sides remained far apart from reaching a deal, as indicated in a press release from SAG-AFTRA to its members on Monday. The message provided an extensive chart of proposals from both sides, though it lacked specific details on SAG-AFTRA's proposals and the responses from the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), which represents studios and streamers.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained--why-netflix-might-survive-hollywood-strikes-of-actors-writers-617032"><strong>Explained | Why Netflix might survive Hollywood strikes of actors, writers</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>AMPTP's counter</strong></h2>

<p>AMPTPT has hit back after the SAG-AFTRA document came to light. A statement read, “Not only does its press release deliberately distort the offers made by AMPTP, it also fails to include the proposals offered verbally to SAG-AFTRA leadership on July 12. According to the AMPTP, their offer included improvements in wages, residuals, and contributions to pensions and health plans, valued at over $1 billion.</p>

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<h2>Major issues on which&nbsp;SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP were at odds</h2>

<p>One major point of contention was the general minimum rate increases sought by SAG-AFTRA. The union aimed for an 11 per cent wage boost in the first year of the new contract, followed by 4 per cent in the second and third years. However, the studios and streamers were only willing to offer 5, 4, and 3.5 per cent increases for the three-year agreement.</p>

<p>Another significant disagreement related to regulating generative artificial intelligence. SAG-AFTRA sought comprehensive provisions to protect human-created work and ensure fair compensation for performers when digital replicas or alterations were made using AI. The AMPTP claimed their offer was groundbreaking and protected performers' digital likenesses, requiring their consent for such use.</p>

<p>Other contentious issues included increasing "span" figures, boosting pension and health plan contribution "caps," relocation allowances, meal break penalties, and coverage for performance-capture work under a SAG-AFTRA contract.</p>

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<h2><strong>Where did SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP agree?</strong></h2>

<p>The two sides did reach some provisionary agreements in certain areas, such as self-taped auditions and translation of scripts, but these agreements were subject to change during further negotiations.</p>

<h2><strong>SAG-AFTRA strike</strong></h2>

<p>SAG-AFTRA initiated a strike on July 14 after the film and television contract expired without reaching a new three-year pact with the AMPTP. The studios and streamers' offer was considered insulting by SAG-AFTRA, while the AMPTP claimed that the union rejected a favourable package offer.</p>

<p>Since the strike began, SAG-AFTRA members have been picketing outside studio lots and corporate sites in Los Angeles and New York, leading to the shutdown or delay of major productions. The two parties have not yet announced a date for returning to the bargaining table.</p>

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It's a showbiz showdown unlike anything seen in more than 40 years. After SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP failed to reach an agreement in the negotiations, the former had declared a historic strike on May 14.

It's a showbiz showdown unlike anything seen in more than 40 years. After SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP failed to reach an agreement in the negotiations, the former had declared a historic strike on May 14. Now, Hollywood faced strikes from two major labour unions. A couple of months before, on May 2, Writers Guild of America (WGA) had also initiated a strike against AMPTP on similar issues like lack of adequate compensation and artificial intelligence. Now, SAG-AFTRA has revealed some of the issues on which it clashed with AMPTP. As per The Hollywood Reporter, during the five weeks of negotiations, some progress was made on certain matters such as schedule breaks, compensation for script translation, and self-taped audition restrictions. However, both sides remained far apart from reaching a deal, as indicated in a press release from SAG-AFTRA to its members on Monday. The message provided an extensive chart of proposals from both sides, though it lacked specific details on SAG-AFTRA's proposals and the responses from the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), which represents studios and streamers. Also Read: Explained | Why Netflix might survive Hollywood strikes of actors, writers AMPTP's counter AMPTPT has hit back after the SAG-AFTRA document came to light. A statement read, “Not only does its press release deliberately distort the offers made by AMPTP, it also fails to include the proposals offered verbally to SAG-AFTRA leadership on July 12. According to the AMPTP, their offer included improvements in wages, residuals, and contributions to pensions and health plans, valued at over $1 billion. Major issues on which SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP were at odds One major point of contention was the general minimum rate increases sought by SAG-AFTRA. The union aimed for an 11 per cent wage boost in the first year of the new contract, followed by 4 per cent in the second and third years. However, the studios and streamers were only willing to offer 5, 4, and 3.5 per cent increases for the three-year agreement. Another significant disagreement related to regulating generative artificial intelligence. SAG-AFTRA sought comprehensive provisions to protect human-created work and ensure fair compensation for performers when digital replicas or alterations were made using AI. The AMPTP claimed their offer was groundbreaking and protected performers' digital likenesses, requiring their consent for such use. Other contentious issues included increasing "span" figures, boosting pension and health plan contribution "caps," relocation allowances, meal break penalties, and coverage for performance-capture work under a SAG-AFTRA contract. Where did SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP agree? The two sides did reach some provisionary agreements in certain areas, such as self-taped auditions and translation of scripts, but these agreements were subject to change during further negotiations. SAG-AFTRA strike SAG-AFTRA initiated a strike on July 14 after the film and television contract expired without reaching a new three-year pact with the AMPTP. The studios and streamers' offer was considered insulting by SAG-AFTRA, while the AMPTP claimed that the union rejected a favourable package offer. Since the strike began, SAG-AFTRA members have been picketing outside studio lots and corporate sites in Los Angeles and New York, leading to the shutdown or delay of major productions. The two parties have not yet announced a date for returning to the bargaining table. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hollywood actors' strike: SAG-AFTRA exposes unresolved issues with studios

<p>In the wake of the SAG AFTRA strike, Universal Pictures has cancelled the red carpet at the US premiere of <em>Oppenheimer.</em>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Extending their support to the actor's strike, Universal Pictures said in a statement, "In support of the ongoing SAG strike, the filmmakers of <em>Oppenheimer</em>&nbsp;will not be proceeding with the NY premiere as originally planned, and will instead screen the movie to celebrate the crew and craftspeople who contributed to making this landmark film.''</p>

<p>The premiere of the most-anticipated film will take place on Monday, July 17, in New York City at the AMC Loews Lincoln Square Theatre.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Oppenheimer cast walks out during UK premiere</strong></h2>

<p>The decision to scrap the red carpet comes a few days after the entire cast of the movie walked out during the UK premiere of the movie, showing their solidarity for their fellow actors and the strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Explaining the absence of the actors, the director told the audience, "I have to acknowledge the work of our incredible cast, led by Cillian Murphy."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "The list is enormous. Robert Downey Jr., Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Florence Pugh, Kenneth Branagh, Rami Malek, and so many more. And we have to acknowledge, you've seen them here earlier on the red carpet, unfortunately, they're off to write their picket signs for what we believe to be an imminent strike by SAG, joining my guild, one of my guilds, the writers' guild, in the struggle for fair wages for working members of their union, and we support them."</p>

<p>The UK premiere of the movie was held on July 13 just a few hours before the SAG AFTRA strike began.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>More about Oppenheimer</strong></h2>

<p>Christopher Nolan's atomic bomb thriller is set to leave a lasting impression on fans. The thriller is based on a biography titled, <em>American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer</em>, written by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin.<br />
<br />
The movie also stars Emily Blunt as the wife of Murphy and biologist Katherine Oppenheimer, Matt Damon as director of the Manhattan Project General Leslie Groves Jr., Robert Downey Jr. as Lewis Strauss, the founding commissioner of the US Atomic Energy Commission, and Florence Pugh as Jean Tatlock. Jr.&nbsp;Robert Downey Jr. as Lewis Strauss, the founding commissioner of the US Atomic Energy Commission, and Florence Pugh as Jean Tatlock&nbsp;as Lewis Strauss, the founding commissioner of the US Atomic Energy Commission, and Florence Pugh as Jean Tatlock.</p>

<p>Oppenheimer will be released in theatres on July 21, 2023.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Oppenheimer will be released in theatres on July 21, 2023.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


In the wake of the SAG AFTRA strike, Universal Pictures has cancelled the red carpet at the US premiere of Oppenheimer. Extending their support to the actor's strike, Universal Pictures said in a statement, "In support of the ongoing SAG strike, the filmmakers of Oppenheimer will not be proceeding with the NY premiere as originally planned, and will instead screen the movie to celebrate the crew and craftspeople who contributed to making this landmark film.

In the wake of the SAG AFTRA strike, Universal Pictures has cancelled the red carpet at the US premiere of Oppenheimer. Extending their support to the actor's strike, Universal Pictures said in a statement, "In support of the ongoing SAG strike, the filmmakers of Oppenheimer will not be proceeding with the NY premiere as originally planned, and will instead screen the movie to celebrate the crew and craftspeople who contributed to making this landmark film.'' The premiere of the most-anticipated film will take place on Monday, July 17, in New York City at the AMC Loews Lincoln Square Theatre. Oppenheimer cast walks out during UK premiere The decision to scrap the red carpet comes a few days after the entire cast of the movie walked out during the UK premiere of the movie, showing their solidarity for their fellow actors and the strike. Explaining the absence of the actors, the director told the audience, "I have to acknowledge the work of our incredible cast, led by Cillian Murphy." He added, "The list is enormous. Robert Downey Jr., Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Florence Pugh, Kenneth Branagh, Rami Malek, and so many more. And we have to acknowledge, you've seen them here earlier on the red carpet, unfortunately, they're off to write their picket signs for what we believe to be an imminent strike by SAG, joining my guild, one of my guilds, the writers' guild, in the struggle for fair wages for working members of their union, and we support them." The UK premiere of the movie was held on July 13 just a few hours before the SAG AFTRA strike began. More about Oppenheimer Christopher Nolan's atomic bomb thriller is set to leave a lasting impression on fans. The thriller is based on a biography titled, American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer, written by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin. The movie also stars Emily Blunt as the wife of Murphy and biologist Katherine Oppenheimer, Matt Damon as director of the Manhattan Project General Leslie Groves Jr., Robert Downey Jr. as Lewis Strauss, the founding commissioner of the US Atomic Energy Commission, and Florence Pugh as Jean Tatlock. Jr. Robert Downey Jr. as Lewis Strauss, the founding commissioner of the US Atomic Energy Commission, and Florence Pugh as Jean Tatlock as Lewis Strauss, the founding commissioner of the US Atomic Energy Commission, and Florence Pugh as Jean Tatlock. Oppenheimer will be released in theatres on July 21, 2023. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. Oppenheimer will be released in theatres on July 21, 2023.

Red carpet of Oppenheimer's New York premiere cancelled amid SAG AFTRA strike

<p>Honking, simmering heat, a smattering of stars, and a lot of anger at Disney boss Bob Iger.<br />
The Hollywood actors' strike kicked off on a sweltering Friday morning in Los Angeles, just over 24 hours after contract talks collapsed with studios.</p>

<p>Several hundred actors swelled the ranks of picketing television and movie writers, who have been pounding the palm tree-lined sidewalks outside Netflix, Warner, Paramount and more for well over two months already.</p>

<p>"No contracts? No actors! No wages? No pages!" went the chants, as organisers from both unions begged strikers to keep hydrated and stay off the roads, where passing cars and trucks blared their horns in support.</p>

<p>"It's a wonderful celebration of workers. This is more than an entertainment industry labor strike -- it's all of labor, all over the country and the world," said "Titanic" star Frances Fisher, 71.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="Also Read | 'Everything is f**ked': Margot Robbie, Cynthia Nixon and more stars speak in support of SAG-AFTRA strike">'Everything is f**ked': Margot Robbie, Cynthia Nixon and more stars speak in support of SAG-AFTRA strike</a></p>

<p>"Everybody's standing up," she told AFP, yards award from the historic arched entryway to Paramount Picture studio.</p>

<p>Chanting writers welcomed the new influx of noticeably louder voices from the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA), and expressed hope that the arrival of globally recognizable faces should bring renewed attention to the movements.</p>

<p>Stars including Allison Janney ("The West Wing"), Mandy Moore ("This is Us"), and Ben Schwartz ("Sonic the Hedgehog") joined rank-and-file actors on the picket lines, while Jason Sudeikis and Susan Sarandon showed up across the country at protests in New York.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-oppenheimer-premiere-florence-pugh-saves-co-star-emily-blunt-from-a-wardrobe-malfunction-615717">Oppenheimer premiere: Florence Pugh saves co-star Emily Blunt from wardrobe malfunction</a></p>

<p>"It feels historic," said Zev Frank, 36, a writer on Amazon Prime series "Patriot."</p>

<p>"To see them show up like this, in huge numbers, it feels different today. It feels electric."</p>

<p>"We're part of an industry that has so many people that are front-facing, so that extra PR is gonna be helpful, said Tien Tran, 36, star of sitcom "How I Met Your Father."</p>

<h2><strong>'Disgusting'</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Among other demands, SAG-AFTRA is asking studios for pay rises to keep pace with inflation, a greater share in the profit of hit shows or films.</p>

<p>Those proposals were dismissed by Disney CEO Bob Iger this week as "unrealistic" -- comments that invoked fury among several strikers interviewed by AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Five times Margot Robbie slayed in Barbie-inspired outfits</strong></p>

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<p>"He's refurnishing his house right now for $5 million, and these people don't even have health insurance... it's disrespectful and disgusting," said Shawn Richardz, an actress who has appeared in "Treme" and "Nip/Tuck."</p>

<p>"This guy is saying we're asking for unrealistic things? Are you kidding me?"</p>

<p>"That was a really prime example of the mindset of the people on top," agreed actor E.J. Arriola 42.</p>

<p>"As artists, we've been around for so long, and there doesn't seem to be any sort of respect."</p>

<p>Many heaped praise&nbsp;on SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher, whose similar language in a press conference announcing the strike Thursday went viral.</p>

<p>She was swarmed by fellow actors outside Netflix on Friday, as the crowd cheered her comments and took them up as chants.</p>

<p>Elsewhere, among the hundreds of SAG-AFTRA and Writers Guild of America signs, placards from other Hollywood unions representing behind-the scenes crew and transport workers were visible among the marchers.</p>

<p>"I have no sets to build without actors," read one slogan.</p>

<p>Both of those guilds re-negotiate their own contracts with studios next year.</p>

<p>"If they need to walk off the job, then we're going to be there to support them too," said Frank, the writer.</p>

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Honking, simmering heat, a smattering of stars, and a lot of anger at Disney boss Bob Iger. The Hollywood actors' strike kicked off on a sweltering Friday morning in Los Angeles, just over 24 hours after contract talks collapsed with studios.

Honking, simmering heat, a smattering of stars, and a lot of anger at Disney boss Bob Iger. The Hollywood actors' strike kicked off on a sweltering Friday morning in Los Angeles, just over 24 hours after contract talks collapsed with studios. Several hundred actors swelled the ranks of picketing television and movie writers, who have been pounding the palm tree-lined sidewalks outside Netflix, Warner, Paramount and more for well over two months already. "No contracts? No actors! No wages? No pages!" went the chants, as organisers from both unions begged strikers to keep hydrated and stay off the roads, where passing cars and trucks blared their horns in support. "It's a wonderful celebration of workers. This is more than an entertainment industry labor strike -- it's all of labor, all over the country and the world," said "Titanic" star Frances Fisher, 71. Also Read | 'Everything is f**ked': Margot Robbie, Cynthia Nixon and more stars speak in support of SAG-AFTRA strike "Everybody's standing up," she told AFP, yards award from the historic arched entryway to Paramount Picture studio. Chanting writers welcomed the new influx of noticeably louder voices from the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA), and expressed hope that the arrival of globally recognizable faces should bring renewed attention to the movements. Stars including Allison Janney ("The West Wing"), Mandy Moore ("This is Us"), and Ben Schwartz ("Sonic the Hedgehog") joined rank-and-file actors on the picket lines, while Jason Sudeikis and Susan Sarandon showed up across the country at protests in New York. Also Read | Oppenheimer premiere: Florence Pugh saves co-star Emily Blunt from wardrobe malfunction "It feels historic," said Zev Frank, 36, a writer on Amazon Prime series "Patriot." "To see them show up like this, in huge numbers, it feels different today. It feels electric." "We're part of an industry that has so many people that are front-facing, so that extra PR is gonna be helpful, said Tien Tran, 36, star of sitcom "How I Met Your Father." 'Disgusting' Among other demands, SAG-AFTRA is asking studios for pay rises to keep pace with inflation, a greater share in the profit of hit shows or films. Those proposals were dismissed by Disney CEO Bob Iger this week as "unrealistic" -- comments that invoked fury among several strikers interviewed by AFP. Watch | Five times Margot Robbie slayed in Barbie-inspired outfits × "He's refurnishing his house right now for $5 million, and these people don't even have health insurance... it's disrespectful and disgusting," said Shawn Richardz, an actress who has appeared in "Treme" and "Nip/Tuck." "This guy is saying we're asking for unrealistic things? Are you kidding me?" "That was a really prime example of the mindset of the people on top," agreed actor E.J. Arriola 42. "As artists, we've been around for so long, and there doesn't seem to be any sort of respect." Many heaped praise on SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher, whose similar language in a press conference announcing the strike Thursday went viral. She was swarmed by fellow actors outside Netflix on Friday, as the crowd cheered her comments and took them up as chants. Elsewhere, among the hundreds of SAG-AFTRA and Writers Guild of America signs, placards from other Hollywood unions representing behind-the scenes crew and transport workers were visible among the marchers. "I have no sets to build without actors," read one slogan. Both of those guilds re-negotiate their own contracts with studios next year. "If they need to walk off the job, then we're going to be there to support them too," said Frank, the writer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Stars take to streets, join writers as contract talks with studios collapse

<p>Following unsuccessful negotiations between SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) and the AMPTP (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers), Hollywood studios are now confronted with a strike by actors, who are set to picket outside studio premises. This strike follows the ongoing Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike, which has been underway since May 3. The actors' strike, the first since 1980, marks a significant moment as actors and writers unite to pursue fair compensation and protection of their rights in the face of challenges posed by, among other things,&nbsp;artificial intelligence (AI).</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-sag-aftra-negotiating-committee-unanimously-votes-strike-as-talks-fall-615055">SAG-AFTRA negotiating committee unanimously votes for strike as talks fail</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Actors' concerns&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The primary concerns of actors revolve around two key issues: compensation and the rise of AI. Most actors heavily depend on residual payments from their various jobs to sustain themselves. These residual payments are vital for earning a minimum income threshold, such as the $26,000 per year required to qualify for health insurance. The actors argue that the revenue generated by the industry should be allocated in a way that supports those on the margins.</p>

<p>Additionally, actors are increasingly concerned about the growing use of AI in replacing human performers with digitally generated equivalents. This trend threatens job opportunities for actors and raises questions about the future of their profession. By going on strike, actors aim to ensure their compensation remains fair and to protect their roles in an industry that is increasingly exploring AI-driven alternatives.</p>

<p>When referring to actors in the context of the strike, it's important to note that the focus is not on well-known, high-profile actors who are economically secure. Instead, the strike primarily impacts actors who earn their livelihood project-by-project, also known as working actors. These individuals rely heavily on consistent work and the accompanying residual payments to sustain themselves financially.</p>

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<h2><strong>WGA&nbsp;strike&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The ongoing strike by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) further compounds the impact on the industry. Covering a majority of professional writers in Hollywood, the guild's members initiated the strike on May 2, after failed negotiations with the AMPTP. The writers' strike shares similar concerns with actors, particularly related to compensation and staffing levels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Studios and production entities have reduced the number of writers in writing rooms, creating challenges for writers to find steady employment. With the rise of streaming platforms, shorter seasons have become more prevalent, resulting in reduced residual payments. Writers are also affected by cost-cutting measures employed by studios, such as wiping shows from servers or selling them off to other companies, which circumvents the payment of residuals. These practices have led to financial hardships for writers and diminished their job security.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the use of AI in generating scripted content poses a significant concern for writers. Studios seek cost-effective alternatives to produce content, often relying on AI-driven technologies like ChatGPT. This development further threatens the job prospects of writers and raises questions about the creative input and quality of AI-generated content.</p>

<p>The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers offered "generous increases in compensation for writers as well as improvements in streaming residuals." However, the primary sticking points revolve around so-called mini-rooms, with the guild seeking a minimum number of scribes per writer room, and the duration of employment contracts.</p>

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<h2><strong>Major unions bat in support of the strike</strong></h2>

<p>The major unions in Hollywood united to express their unwavering support and solidarity with SAG-AFTRA, as well as the ongoing strike by the Writers Guild of America. The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Teamsters, Hollywood Basic Crafts, the Directors Guild of America (DGA), and the Writers Guild of America East and West issued a joint statement emphasising the importance of fair treatment for all workers in the entertainment industry.</p>

<p>According to the unions' statement, "Hollywood must be a place where every worker, on-screen and off, is treated according to the value their skills and talents command." They stressed that this labour dispute is not solely about actors versus studios, but rather about all professionals across various crafts and departments within the industry coming together to safeguard the hard-fought conditions they have achieved over the years.</p>

<p>"While the studios have collective worth of trillions of dollars, billions of viewers globally, and sky-high profits, this fight is not about actors against the studios, but rather about workers across all crafts and departments in the industry standing together to prevent mega-corporations from eroding the conditions we fought decades to achieve," the statement continued.</p>

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<h2>What lies ahead</h2>

<p>The combined strike&nbsp;by actors and writers is all set to cause a huge disruption in the industry, resulting in delayed movies and shuffled TV show schedules. Studios will likely resort to offering reality programming and relying on projects that are less dependent on guild members. If the strikes persist, the industry may face a near-total shutdown. It also poses significant challenges for studios, including potential financial losses and the disruption of production schedules.</p>

<p>The cascading effects on TV and film productions will depend on how long the actors' strike lasts and comes at a time when studios and streaming services are under growing pressure from Wall Street to show profits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even after the strikes end, things will not automatically lead to normalcy, since writers and actors are protesting again this very normalcy in the first place. The strikes have exposed deep-rooted issues related to compensation, job security, and the impact of AI on the entertainment industry. Resolving these challenges will require a collaborative effort among industry stakeholders to ensure fair and sustainable practices for actors, writers, and other professionals in the field.</p>

<p>This dispute serves as a stark reminder that the entertainment industry is often far from glamorous for those working behind the scenes, regardless of the eventual outcome.</p>

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Following unsuccessful negotiations between SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) and the AMPTP (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers), Hollywood studios are now confronted with a strike by actors, who are set to picket outside studio premises.

Following unsuccessful negotiations between SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) and the AMPTP (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers), Hollywood studios are now confronted with a strike by actors, who are set to picket outside studio premises. This strike follows the ongoing Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike, which has been underway since May 3. The actors' strike, the first since 1980, marks a significant moment as actors and writers unite to pursue fair compensation and protection of their rights in the face of challenges posed by, among other things, artificial intelligence (AI). Also Read: SAG-AFTRA negotiating committee unanimously votes for strike as talks fail Actors' concerns The primary concerns of actors revolve around two key issues: compensation and the rise of AI. Most actors heavily depend on residual payments from their various jobs to sustain themselves. These residual payments are vital for earning a minimum income threshold, such as the $26,000 per year required to qualify for health insurance. The actors argue that the revenue generated by the industry should be allocated in a way that supports those on the margins. Additionally, actors are increasingly concerned about the growing use of AI in replacing human performers with digitally generated equivalents. This trend threatens job opportunities for actors and raises questions about the future of their profession. By going on strike, actors aim to ensure their compensation remains fair and to protect their roles in an industry that is increasingly exploring AI-driven alternatives. When referring to actors in the context of the strike, it's important to note that the focus is not on well-known, high-profile actors who are economically secure. Instead, the strike primarily impacts actors who earn their livelihood project-by-project, also known as working actors. These individuals rely heavily on consistent work and the accompanying residual payments to sustain themselves financially. WGA strike The ongoing strike by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) further compounds the impact on the industry. Covering a majority of professional writers in Hollywood, the guild's members initiated the strike on May 2, after failed negotiations with the AMPTP. The writers' strike shares similar concerns with actors, particularly related to compensation and staffing levels. Studios and production entities have reduced the number of writers in writing rooms, creating challenges for writers to find steady employment. With the rise of streaming platforms, shorter seasons have become more prevalent, resulting in reduced residual payments. Writers are also affected by cost-cutting measures employed by studios, such as wiping shows from servers or selling them off to other companies, which circumvents the payment of residuals. These practices have led to financial hardships for writers and diminished their job security. Furthermore, the use of AI in generating scripted content poses a significant concern for writers. Studios seek cost-effective alternatives to produce content, often relying on AI-driven technologies like ChatGPT. This development further threatens the job prospects of writers and raises questions about the creative input and quality of AI-generated content. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers offered "generous increases in compensation for writers as well as improvements in streaming residuals." However, the primary sticking points revolve around so-called mini-rooms, with the guild seeking a minimum number of scribes per writer room, and the duration of employment contracts. Major unions bat in support of the strike The major unions in Hollywood united to express their unwavering support and solidarity with SAG-AFTRA, as well as the ongoing strike by the Writers Guild of America. The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Teamsters, Hollywood Basic Crafts, the Directors Guild of America (DGA), and the Writers Guild of America East and West issued a joint statement emphasising the importance of fair treatment for all workers in the entertainment industry. According to the unions' statement, "Hollywood must be a place where every worker, on-screen and off, is treated according to the value their skills and talents command." They stressed that this labour dispute is not solely about actors versus studios, but rather about all professionals across various crafts and departments within the industry coming together to safeguard the hard-fought conditions they have achieved over the years. "While the studios have collective worth of trillions of dollars, billions of viewers globally, and sky-high profits, this fight is not about actors against the studios, but rather about workers across all crafts and departments in the industry standing together to prevent mega-corporations from eroding the conditions we fought decades to achieve," the statement continued. What lies ahead The combined strike by actors and writers is all set to cause a huge disruption in the industry, resulting in delayed movies and shuffled TV show schedules. Studios will likely resort to offering reality programming and relying on projects that are less dependent on guild members. If the strikes persist, the industry may face a near-total shutdown. It also poses significant challenges for studios, including potential financial losses and the disruption of production schedules. The cascading effects on TV and film productions will depend on how long the actors' strike lasts and comes at a time when studios and streaming services are under growing pressure from Wall Street to show profits. Even after the strikes end, things will not automatically lead to normalcy, since writers and actors are protesting again this very normalcy in the first place. The strikes have exposed deep-rooted issues related to compensation, job security, and the impact of AI on the entertainment industry. Resolving these challenges will require a collaborative effort among industry stakeholders to ensure fair and sustainable practices for actors, writers, and other professionals in the field. This dispute serves as a stark reminder that the entertainment industry is often far from glamorous for those working behind the scenes, regardless of the eventual outcome. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. 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Explained | The implications of Hollywood actors' strike and what lies ahead