<p>Pens are laid down, keyboards are silent, and writers have taken to the streets. The power of the pen clashes with the power of the purse, and the outcome might have serious ramifications for the future of the entertainment industry. The Writers Guild of America (WGA) has commenced its first strike in 15 years, with unionised TV and film writers taking to the streets to demand better pay from major studios. Despite failing to reach a new contract with the trade association that represents Hollywood studios and production companies, the WGA is undeterred in its efforts to secure higher minimum pay, more writers per show, and shorter exclusive contracts, among other demands. Here is your ready reckoner on the Hollywood writers' strike&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The importance of writers in TV and film</strong></h2>

<p>Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the strike, let’s take a step back and look at the big picture. Writers have been an integral part of the entertainment industry since its inception. Without them, there would be no scripts, no dialogue, no witty banter, no heart-wrenching monologues. In short, there would be no stories to tell. Despite their vital role, however, writers have historically been treated as second-class citizens in Hollywood. They have been underpaid, undervalued, and often subjected to harsh working conditions. This is partly due to the fact that the studios hold most of the power in the industry, and writers have had little recourse to challenge their authority.</p>

<p>All that changed in 2007 when the Writers Guild of America (WGA) went on strike.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hollywood-writers-go-on-strike-over-fair-pay-in-streaming-era-588385/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>2007–08 Writers Guild of America strike</strong></h2>

<p>That strike was sparked by a dispute over compensation for online content, which was becoming increasingly important as the internet began to transform the entertainment industry. At the time, writers were only receiving a small fraction of the revenue generated by online content, and they were understandably unhappy about it.</p>

<p>The WGA demanded a greater share of the revenue and proposed a new payment structure that would have given writers a percentage of the profits from online content. The studios, however, were not interested in sharing the wealth. They argued that the internet was still a new and untested market, and that they needed to keep most of the revenue to invest in new content.</p>

<p>The negotiations between the two sides were long and contentious, with each side digging its heels and refusing to budge. In November 2007, the WGA went on strike, and writers all across Hollywood put down their pens and took to the picket lines.</p>

<p>The strike lasted for 100 days and had a profound impact on the entertainment industry. Production on most TV shows and movies ground to a halt, leaving viewers with a steady diet of reruns and reality shows. The late-night talk shows were hit particularly hard, with hosts like Jay Leno and David Letterman forced to go off the air for several months.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hollywood-writers-strike-to-trigger-tv-shutdowns-588166/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The strike also had a significant economic impact, with estimates suggesting that it cost the industry around $2 billion. Many writers were unable to work during the strike, and even those who could continue working saw their incomes fall. The strike also had ripple effects throughout the industry, with everyone from makeup artists to caterers feeling the pinch.</p>

<p>Despite the economic cost, however, the strike was ultimately successful. The WGA was able to secure a better deal for writers, with studios agreeing to pay writers a larger percentage of revenue generated by online content. The strike also helped raise awareness of the challenges faced by writers in the entertainment industry, and it paved the way for further labour activism in Hollywood.</p>

<h2><strong>2023 Writers Guild of America strike</strong></h2>

<p>The latest strike is a result of the content boom thanks, mainly, to the proliferation of streaming services. With Netflix and Amazon Prime VIdeo and other streamers emerging as key players, the space is suddenly crowded, with every major studio jumping on the bandwagon. The wealth of content has led to an increase in the number of series and films that are annually made, leading to more job opportunities for writers. However, this has come at a cost, with writers claiming they are making less than they used to, while working under more strained conditions. As such, the WGA is seeking more compensation for writers upfront, since many of the payments writers have historically profited from on the back end, like syndication and international licensing, have been largely phased out by the onset of streaming.</p>

<h2><strong>Impact of the strike</strong></h2>

<p>The strike's impact on scripted series and films will take longer to notice, but if the strike persists through the summer, fall TV schedules could be upended. Late-night television has already been impacted, with all of the top late-night shows, which are staffed by writers who write jokes for their hosts, immediately going dark. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which represents studios and production companies, has offered "generous increases in compensation for writers as well as improvements in streaming residuals." However, the primary sticking points to a deal 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>
<img alt="writers strike" data-caption="This is the second writers' strike in 15 years." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6c8676e9-ce15-4602-9e2f-fd4448587680" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/writers-strike.png" />
<p>Given that the studios' trade association was unwilling to improve its offer due to the magnitude of other proposals still on the table that the guild continues to insist upon, the WGA is undeterred in its mission to secure better pay and working conditions for its members. The strike's cascading effects on TV and film productions will depend on how long the strike lasts and comes at a time when streaming services are under growing pressure from Wall Street to show profits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Regardless of the outcome, this labour dispute serves as a sobering reminder that the entertainment industry is far from glamorous for those working behind the scenes.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Pens are laid down, keyboards are silent, and writers have taken to the streets. The power of the pen clashes with the power of the purse, and the outcome might have serious ramifications for the future of the entertainment industry.

Pens are laid down, keyboards are silent, and writers have taken to the streets. The power of the pen clashes with the power of the purse, and the outcome might have serious ramifications for the future of the entertainment industry. The Writers Guild of America (WGA) has commenced its first strike in 15 years, with unionised TV and film writers taking to the streets to demand better pay from major studios. Despite failing to reach a new contract with the trade association that represents Hollywood studios and production companies, the WGA is undeterred in its efforts to secure higher minimum pay, more writers per show, and shorter exclusive contracts, among other demands. Here is your ready reckoner on the Hollywood writers' strike The importance of writers in TV and film Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the strike, let’s take a step back and look at the big picture. Writers have been an integral part of the entertainment industry since its inception. Without them, there would be no scripts, no dialogue, no witty banter, no heart-wrenching monologues. In short, there would be no stories to tell. Despite their vital role, however, writers have historically been treated as second-class citizens in Hollywood. They have been underpaid, undervalued, and often subjected to harsh working conditions. This is partly due to the fact that the studios hold most of the power in the industry, and writers have had little recourse to challenge their authority. All that changed in 2007 when the Writers Guild of America (WGA) went on strike. 2007–08 Writers Guild of America strike That strike was sparked by a dispute over compensation for online content, which was becoming increasingly important as the internet began to transform the entertainment industry. At the time, writers were only receiving a small fraction of the revenue generated by online content, and they were understandably unhappy about it. The WGA demanded a greater share of the revenue and proposed a new payment structure that would have given writers a percentage of the profits from online content. The studios, however, were not interested in sharing the wealth. They argued that the internet was still a new and untested market, and that they needed to keep most of the revenue to invest in new content. The negotiations between the two sides were long and contentious, with each side digging its heels and refusing to budge. In November 2007, the WGA went on strike, and writers all across Hollywood put down their pens and took to the picket lines. The strike lasted for 100 days and had a profound impact on the entertainment industry. Production on most TV shows and movies ground to a halt, leaving viewers with a steady diet of reruns and reality shows. The late-night talk shows were hit particularly hard, with hosts like Jay Leno and David Letterman forced to go off the air for several months. The strike also had a significant economic impact, with estimates suggesting that it cost the industry around $2 billion. Many writers were unable to work during the strike, and even those who could continue working saw their incomes fall. The strike also had ripple effects throughout the industry, with everyone from makeup artists to caterers feeling the pinch. Despite the economic cost, however, the strike was ultimately successful. The WGA was able to secure a better deal for writers, with studios agreeing to pay writers a larger percentage of revenue generated by online content. The strike also helped raise awareness of the challenges faced by writers in the entertainment industry, and it paved the way for further labour activism in Hollywood. 2023 Writers Guild of America strike The latest strike is a result of the content boom thanks, mainly, to the proliferation of streaming services. With Netflix and Amazon Prime VIdeo and other streamers emerging as key players, the space is suddenly crowded, with every major studio jumping on the bandwagon. The wealth of content has led to an increase in the number of series and films that are annually made, leading to more job opportunities for writers. However, this has come at a cost, with writers claiming they are making less than they used to, while working under more strained conditions. As such, the WGA is seeking more compensation for writers upfront, since many of the payments writers have historically profited from on the back end, like syndication and international licensing, have been largely phased out by the onset of streaming. Impact of the strike The strike's impact on scripted series and films will take longer to notice, but if the strike persists through the summer, fall TV schedules could be upended. Late-night television has already been impacted, with all of the top late-night shows, which are staffed by writers who write jokes for their hosts, immediately going dark. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which represents studios and production companies, has offered "generous increases in compensation for writers as well as improvements in streaming residuals." However, the primary sticking points to a deal revolve around so-called mini-rooms, with the guild seeking a minimum number of scribes per writer room, and the duration of employment contracts. Given that the studios' trade association was unwilling to improve its offer due to the magnitude of other proposals still on the table that the guild continues to insist upon, the WGA is undeterred in its mission to secure better pay and working conditions for its members. The strike's cascading effects on TV and film productions will depend on how long the strike lasts and comes at a time when streaming services are under growing pressure from Wall Street to show profits. Regardless of the outcome, this labour dispute serves as a sobering reminder that the entertainment industry is far from glamorous for those working behind the scenes. 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 | Hollywood strike - What the writers want

<p>With writers' strike raging on in Hollywood, the notion of artificial intelligence taking over the screenwriting duties is terrifying for both writers of TV and film, and the audiences. One of the points of contention between WGA, or Writers Guild of America, and Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), was AI. WGA members wish to limit the use of tools like ChatGPT in the screenwriting process, but Hollywood studios, suffering from economic losses in the streaming era and a post-pandemic world where the theatrical business is yet to fully recover, believe otherwise. Sure enough large language models or LLMs like ChatGPT have proven ridiculously useful in generating text. It can write thousands of words in a matter of seconds, which is beyond us.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, judging by the quality of ChatGPT's writing, which is without any flavour or personality (an obvious reason for that) and reads like a particularly dull Wikipedia entry, professional writers may not have any particular cause to worry about, at the moment anyway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But what if ChatGPT in a dystopic future did replace writers and wrote TV and film scripts? What would our entertainment look like?</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained--hollywood-strike---what-the-writers-want-588409">Explained | Hollywood strike - What the writers want</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong><em>Succession </em>in space</strong></h2>

<p>We asked the large language model to write a synopsis of HBO's <em>Succession</em>&nbsp;if it were set in space. Here's what it came up with:</p>

<p>"Succession in Space is a science fiction drama series that follows the Roy family, a wealthy and powerful family who own a space exploration and mining company called Royco. The show is set in a distant future where humanity has colonised multiple planets and galaxies, and space travel and colonisation have become the norm. The series centres around the patriarch of the family, Logan Roy, a ruthless and ambitious business tycoon who is the founder and CEO of Royco. Logan is getting old and is facing health issues, which prompts him to start thinking about his succession plan. He has four children: Kendall, Shiv, Roman, and Connor, who all have different personalities and ambitions. As Logan's health deteriorates, tensions rise, and the siblings start to fight for power, control, and the family legacy."</p>

<p>Not very imaginative on ChatGPT's part. It did, in fairness, follow my prompt to the letter. This is Succession in space, indeed. And not very interesting. The LLM just took tired tropes from sci-fi and applied them to the show's main plot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-hollywood-writers-vs-artificial-intelligence-how-their-strike-is-also-a-fight-against-ai-588446">Hollywood writers vs artificial intelligence: How their strike is also a fight against AI</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong><em>Breaking Bad</em> in India?</strong></h2>

<p>Next, I asked ChatGPT to reimagine <em>Breaking Bad</em> in India. It came up with:&nbsp;</p>

<p>"<em>Breaking Bad: Mumbai</em> show follows the story of Walter White, a struggling high school chemistry teacher who turns to making and selling methamphetamine to secure his family's future after being diagnosed with lung cancer. In this version of the story, Walter White is reimagined as Vikram Verma, a chemistry professor at a prestigious Mumbai university. Vikram is a talented chemist, but his life takes a turn when he is diagnosed with cancer and realises that he cannot afford the expensive treatments that could save his life. Desperate to provide for his family, Vikram turns to his former student and small-time drug dealer, Rohit, to help him start cooking and selling crystal meth. Rohit is a young, ambitious man with big dreams of becoming a major player in the drug trade, and he sees Vikram's expertise as the key to his success. Together, Vikram and Rohit embark on a dangerous journey, navigating the dangerous underworld of Mumbai's drug trade and dealing with ruthless gangsters, corrupt police officers, and rival drug dealers. Along the way, they must also contend with the disapproval of their families and loved ones, who are unaware of their illegal activities. As Vikram becomes more deeply involved in the drug trade, he begins to transform from a mild-mannered professor to a ruthless drug lord, willing to do whatever it takes to protect his territory and his family."</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hollywood-writers-go-on-strike-over-fair-pay-in-streaming-era-588385/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Again, this is without a single hint of imagination. ChatGPT does what the prompt tells you, but fails to do anything remotely approaching interesting beyond what the fresh.</p>

<p>For now, at least, ChatGPT or AI, in general, does not pose a threat to any writer worth his or her salt. Of course, money-minded studios might not see it that way, and we have seen content in the past that feels like an algorithm wrote it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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With writers' strike raging on in Hollywood, the notion of artificial intelligence taking over the screenwriting duties is terrifying for both writers of TV and film, and the audiences.

With writers' strike raging on in Hollywood, the notion of artificial intelligence taking over the screenwriting duties is terrifying for both writers of TV and film, and the audiences. One of the points of contention between WGA, or Writers Guild of America, and Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), was AI. WGA members wish to limit the use of tools like ChatGPT in the screenwriting process, but Hollywood studios, suffering from economic losses in the streaming era and a post-pandemic world where the theatrical business is yet to fully recover, believe otherwise. Sure enough large language models or LLMs like ChatGPT have proven ridiculously useful in generating text. It can write thousands of words in a matter of seconds, which is beyond us. However, judging by the quality of ChatGPT's writing, which is without any flavour or personality (an obvious reason for that) and reads like a particularly dull Wikipedia entry, professional writers may not have any particular cause to worry about, at the moment anyway. But what if ChatGPT in a dystopic future did replace writers and wrote TV and film scripts? What would our entertainment look like? Also Read: Explained | Hollywood strike - What the writers want Succession in space We asked the large language model to write a synopsis of HBO's Succession if it were set in space. Here's what it came up with: "Succession in Space is a science fiction drama series that follows the Roy family, a wealthy and powerful family who own a space exploration and mining company called Royco. The show is set in a distant future where humanity has colonised multiple planets and galaxies, and space travel and colonisation have become the norm. The series centres around the patriarch of the family, Logan Roy, a ruthless and ambitious business tycoon who is the founder and CEO of Royco. Logan is getting old and is facing health issues, which prompts him to start thinking about his succession plan. He has four children: Kendall, Shiv, Roman, and Connor, who all have different personalities and ambitions. As Logan's health deteriorates, tensions rise, and the siblings start to fight for power, control, and the family legacy." Not very imaginative on ChatGPT's part. It did, in fairness, follow my prompt to the letter. This is Succession in space, indeed. And not very interesting. The LLM just took tired tropes from sci-fi and applied them to the show's main plot. Also Read: Hollywood writers vs artificial intelligence: How their strike is also a fight against AI Breaking Bad in India? Next, I asked ChatGPT to reimagine Breaking Bad in India. It came up with: "Breaking Bad: Mumbai show follows the story of Walter White, a struggling high school chemistry teacher who turns to making and selling methamphetamine to secure his family's future after being diagnosed with lung cancer. In this version of the story, Walter White is reimagined as Vikram Verma, a chemistry professor at a prestigious Mumbai university. Vikram is a talented chemist, but his life takes a turn when he is diagnosed with cancer and realises that he cannot afford the expensive treatments that could save his life. Desperate to provide for his family, Vikram turns to his former student and small-time drug dealer, Rohit, to help him start cooking and selling crystal meth. Rohit is a young, ambitious man with big dreams of becoming a major player in the drug trade, and he sees Vikram's expertise as the key to his success. Together, Vikram and Rohit embark on a dangerous journey, navigating the dangerous underworld of Mumbai's drug trade and dealing with ruthless gangsters, corrupt police officers, and rival drug dealers. Along the way, they must also contend with the disapproval of their families and loved ones, who are unaware of their illegal activities. As Vikram becomes more deeply involved in the drug trade, he begins to transform from a mild-mannered professor to a ruthless drug lord, willing to do whatever it takes to protect his territory and his family." Again, this is without a single hint of imagination. ChatGPT does what the prompt tells you, but fails to do anything remotely approaching interesting beyond what the fresh. For now, at least, ChatGPT or AI, in general, does not pose a threat to any writer worth his or her salt. Of course, money-minded studios might not see it that way, and we have seen content in the past that feels like an algorithm wrote it. 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 vs writers: Can ChatGPT create the next Succession? Or Breaking Bad?

<p>The first Hollywood strike in 15 years began Tuesday as the economic pressures of the streaming era prompted unionised TV and film writers to picket for better pay outside major studios, a work stoppage that already is leading most late-night shows to air reruns.</p>

<p>“No contracts, no content!” sign-carrying members of the Writers Guild of America chanted outside the Manhattan building where NBCUniversal was touting its Peacock streaming service to advertisers.</p>

<p>Some 11,500 film and television writers represented by the union put down their pens and laptops after failing to reach a new contract with the trade association that represents Hollywood studios and production companies.</p>

<p>The union is seeking higher minimum pay, more writers per show, and shorter exclusive contracts, among other demands — all conditions it says have been diminished in the content boom driven by streaming.</p>

<p>“There’s too much work and not enough pay,” said demonstrator Sean Crespo, a 46-year-old writer whose credits include the former TBS show<em> Full Frontal With Samantha Bee.</em></p>

<p>The labour dispute could have a cascading effect on TV and film productions depending on how long the strike lasts, and it comes as streaming services are under growing pressure from Wall Street to show profits.</p>

<p>Late-night television was the first to feel the fallout, just as it was during the 2007 writers strike that lasted for 100 days.</p>

<p>All of the top late-night shows, which are staffed by writers that pen monologues and jokes for their hosts, immediately went dark. NBC’s<em> The Tonight Show</em>, Comedy Central’s<em> Daily Show</em>, ABC’s<em> Jimmy Kimmel Live</em>, CBS’s<em> The Late Show</em> and NBC’s <em>Late Night</em> all made plans for reruns through the week.</p>

<p>NBC’s Saturday Night Live, which had been scheduled to air a new episode Saturday, will also go dark and air reruns instead.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hollywood-writers-strike-to-trigger-tv-shutdowns-588166/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“Everyone including myself hope both sides reach a deal. But I also think that the writers’ demands are not unreasonable,” host Stephen Colbert said on Monday’s Late Show.</p>

<p>“This nation owes so much to unions,” Colbert said. “Unions are the reason we have weekends, and by extension why we have TGI Fridays.”</p>

<p>Playwright Tony Kushner (<em>The Fabelmans</em>) and <em>Dopesick </em>creator Danny Strong were among those demonstrating in New York on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The strike’s impact on scripted series and films will take longer to notice. If a strike persisted through the summer, fall TV schedules could be upended. In the meantime, those with finished scripts are permitted to continue shooting.</p>

<p>During the 2007 strike, late-night hosts eventually returned to air and improvised their way through shows. <em>Tonight Show</em> host Jay Leno angered WGA leadership when he began writing his own monologues.</p>

<p>One late-night show won’t go dark. Fox News’<em> Gutfeld!</em> with Greg Gutfeld will continue airing new episodes, Fox said Tuesday.</p>

<p>The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which represents studios and productions companies, said it presented an offer with “generous increases in compensation for writers as well as improvements in streaming residuals.”</p>

<p>The trade association said in a statement that it was prepared to improve its offer “but was unwilling to do so because of the magnitude of other proposals still on the table that the guild continues to insist upon.”</p>

<p>A shutdown has been widely forecast for months. The writers last month voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike, with 98 per cent of membership in support. Writers say their pay isn’t keeping pace with inflation, TV writer rooms have shrunk too much and the old calculus for how residuals are paid out needs to be redrawn.</p>

<p>Streaming has exploded the number of series and films that are annually made, meaning more jobs for writers. But writers say they’re making less than they used to while working under more strained conditions. The WGA said “the companies’ behavior has created a gig economy inside a union workforce.”</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/writers-guild-of-america-strike-over-pay-disputes-with-streaming-giants-588288/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The union is seeking more compensation for writers up front. That’s because many of the payments writers have historically profited from on the back end — like syndication and international licensing — have been largely phased out by the onset of streaming.</p>

<p>The studios’ trade association said Monday that the primary sticking points to a deal revolved around so-called mini-rooms — the guild is seeking a minimum number of scribes per writer room — and the duration of employment contracts.</p>

<p>The writers’ union says more flexibility is needed for writers at a time when they’re contracted for series that tend to be shorter-lived than the once-standard 20-plus episode broadcast season. They are also seeking more regulation around the use of artificial intelligence, which writers say could give producers a shortcut to finishing a WGA writer’s work.</p>

<p>“Understand that our fight is the same fight that is coming to your professional sector next: it’s the devaluing of human effort, skill, and talent in favour of automation and profits,” said the writer-director Justine Bateman.</p>

<p>Many studios and production companies are slashing spending. The Walt Disney Co. is eliminating 7,000 jobs. Warner Bros. Discovery is cutting costs to lessen its debt. Netflix has pumped the brakes on spending growth.</p>

<p>With a walkout long expected, writers have rushed to get scripts in and studios have sought to prepare their pipelines to keep churning out content for at least the short term. But the loss to local economies can be considerable. Los Angeles is estimated to have lost $2.1 billion in economic output during the last strike.</p>

<p>“We’re assuming the worst from a business perspective,” David Zaslav, chief executive of Warner Bros. Discovery, said last month. “We’ve got ourselves ready. We’ve had a lot of content that’s been produced.”</p>

<p>Overseas series could also fill some of the void. “We have a large base of upcoming shows and films from around the world,” Ted Sarandos, Netflix co-chief executive, said on the company’s earnings call in April.</p>

<p>The WGA strike may only be the beginning. Contracts for both the Directors Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA, the actors union, expire in June. Some of the same issues around the business model of streaming will factor into those bargaining sessions.</p>

<p>The actors’ union on Tuesday encouraged its members to join the writers’ picket lines in solidarity.</p>

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The first Hollywood strike in 15 years began Tuesday as the economic pressures of the streaming era prompted unionised TV and film writers to picket for better pay outside major studios, a work stoppage that already is leading most late-night shows to air reruns.

The first Hollywood strike in 15 years began Tuesday as the economic pressures of the streaming era prompted unionised TV and film writers to picket for better pay outside major studios, a work stoppage that already is leading most late-night shows to air reruns. “No contracts, no content!” sign-carrying members of the Writers Guild of America chanted outside the Manhattan building where NBCUniversal was touting its Peacock streaming service to advertisers. Some 11,500 film and television writers represented by the union put down their pens and laptops after failing to reach a new contract with the trade association that represents Hollywood studios and production companies. The union is seeking higher minimum pay, more writers per show, and shorter exclusive contracts, among other demands — all conditions it says have been diminished in the content boom driven by streaming. “There’s too much work and not enough pay,” said demonstrator Sean Crespo, a 46-year-old writer whose credits include the former TBS show Full Frontal With Samantha Bee. The labour dispute could have a cascading effect on TV and film productions depending on how long the strike lasts, and it comes as streaming services are under growing pressure from Wall Street to show profits. Late-night television was the first to feel the fallout, just as it was during the 2007 writers strike that lasted for 100 days. All of the top late-night shows, which are staffed by writers that pen monologues and jokes for their hosts, immediately went dark. NBC’s The Tonight Show, Comedy Central’s Daily Show, ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live, CBS’s The Late Show and NBC’s Late Night all made plans for reruns through the week. NBC’s Saturday Night Live, which had been scheduled to air a new episode Saturday, will also go dark and air reruns instead. “Everyone including myself hope both sides reach a deal. But I also think that the writers’ demands are not unreasonable,” host Stephen Colbert said on Monday’s Late Show. “This nation owes so much to unions,” Colbert said. “Unions are the reason we have weekends, and by extension why we have TGI Fridays.” Playwright Tony Kushner (The Fabelmans) and Dopesick creator Danny Strong were among those demonstrating in New York on Tuesday. The strike’s impact on scripted series and films will take longer to notice. If a strike persisted through the summer, fall TV schedules could be upended. In the meantime, those with finished scripts are permitted to continue shooting. During the 2007 strike, late-night hosts eventually returned to air and improvised their way through shows. Tonight Show host Jay Leno angered WGA leadership when he began writing his own monologues. One late-night show won’t go dark. Fox News’ Gutfeld! with Greg Gutfeld will continue airing new episodes, Fox said Tuesday. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which represents studios and productions companies, said it presented an offer with “generous increases in compensation for writers as well as improvements in streaming residuals.” The trade association said in a statement that it was prepared to improve its offer “but was unwilling to do so because of the magnitude of other proposals still on the table that the guild continues to insist upon.” A shutdown has been widely forecast for months. The writers last month voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike, with 98 per cent of membership in support. Writers say their pay isn’t keeping pace with inflation, TV writer rooms have shrunk too much and the old calculus for how residuals are paid out needs to be redrawn. Streaming has exploded the number of series and films that are annually made, meaning more jobs for writers. But writers say they’re making less than they used to while working under more strained conditions. The WGA said “the companies’ behavior has created a gig economy inside a union workforce.” The union is seeking more compensation for writers up front. That’s because many of the payments writers have historically profited from on the back end — like syndication and international licensing — have been largely phased out by the onset of streaming. The studios’ trade association said Monday that the primary sticking points to a deal revolved around so-called mini-rooms — the guild is seeking a minimum number of scribes per writer room — and the duration of employment contracts. The writers’ union says more flexibility is needed for writers at a time when they’re contracted for series that tend to be shorter-lived than the once-standard 20-plus episode broadcast season. They are also seeking more regulation around the use of artificial intelligence, which writers say could give producers a shortcut to finishing a WGA writer’s work. “Understand that our fight is the same fight that is coming to your professional sector next: it’s the devaluing of human effort, skill, and talent in favour of automation and profits,” said the writer-director Justine Bateman. Many studios and production companies are slashing spending. The Walt Disney Co. is eliminating 7,000 jobs. Warner Bros. Discovery is cutting costs to lessen its debt. Netflix has pumped the brakes on spending growth. With a walkout long expected, writers have rushed to get scripts in and studios have sought to prepare their pipelines to keep churning out content for at least the short term. But the loss to local economies can be considerable. Los Angeles is estimated to have lost $2.1 billion in economic output during the last strike. “We’re assuming the worst from a business perspective,” David Zaslav, chief executive of Warner Bros. Discovery, said last month. “We’ve got ourselves ready. We’ve had a lot of content that’s been produced.” Overseas series could also fill some of the void. “We have a large base of upcoming shows and films from around the world,” Ted Sarandos, Netflix co-chief executive, said on the company’s earnings call in April. The WGA strike may only be the beginning. Contracts for both the Directors Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA, the actors union, expire in June. Some of the same issues around the business model of streaming will factor into those bargaining sessions. The actors’ union on Tuesday encouraged its members to join the writers’ picket lines in solidarity. 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.

Late-night TV shows go dark as Hollywood writers strike for better pay

<p>On April 18, 2018, nearly 98 per cent of members of the WGA, or Writers Guild of America, voted to go on strike if they do not reach an agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), the entity that is representing American film and TV studios (Amazon Studios, Apple Studios, NBCUniversal, Netflix, Paramount Global, Sony Pictures, the Walt Disney Company, and Warner Bros. Discovery), by May 1. And on the evening of May 2, they made good on their promise by declaring the strike, the first in 15 years. WGA members began picketing the next day. Around 11,500 writers stopped working, making late-night television go dark. &nbsp;The writers have said they want higher minimum pay, more writers per show, and shorter exclusive contracts, among other things.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also on the list of negotiation points are artificial intelligence and large language models like ChatGPT. Though it is quite far down the list, many claim AI may have major ramifications for the future of the industry. AI systems have actually already been a part of Hollywood filmmaking for years. Are tools like ChatGPT different?</p>

<h2><strong>Hollywood and AI — &nbsp;a love story?</strong></h2>

<p>AI has been revolutionising the entertainment industry in a variety of ways beyond just creative writing. One of the most notable examples is the use of AI in de-ageing technology. This technology involves using machine learning algorithms to analyse images of an actor at various ages and then applying that data to create a computer-generated model of what the actor would look like at any given age. De-ageing technology has been used in a number of high-profile films, including Martin Scorsese's<em> The Irishman</em>, where it was used to make actors Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci look decades younger (to, uh, mixed results). The technology has also been used in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with Samuel L. Jackson's Nick Fury being de-aged in <em>Captain Marvel </em>and Robert Downey Jr being de-aged in <em>Captain America: Civil War.</em></p>

<p>Another area where AI is already extensively being used in Hollywood is in post-production. For example, AI algorithms can be used to help colour-correct footage or to automatically add special effects. This saves time and money in the editing process and allows filmmakers to create more complex visuals.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hollywood-writers-strike-to-trigger-tv-shutdowns-588166/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Large language models or LLMs — the bones of contention</strong></h2>

<p>WGA has made it clear that they don't want AI to be involved in the creative process. Unlike other AI tools, LLMs are potentially replacing a job (there was no de-ageing job). &nbsp;Screenwriter John August, a member of the WGA negotiating committee, said he and others have two major concerns regarding AI. "We don't want our material feeding them, and we also don't want to be fixing their sloppy first drafts," he said.</p>

<p>Here, by "feeding" he refers to training AI systems with existing high-quality scripts.</p>

<p>Hypothetically, if an AI system was fed with scripts written by M Night Shyamalan, it could, given time, come up with its own twisty, suspenseful plots. If it were fed with Martin Scorsese's scripts, it could, theoretically, create its own gangster epic. Or one could make it watch thousands of "prestige" shows and maybe it can churn out <em>Succession </em>in space. Or something like that.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ai-scams-mimicking-voices-are-on-the-rise-588152/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>

<h2><strong>Can AI write the next <em>Succession</em>, then?</strong></h2>

<p>Writers argue that AI-generated scripts lack the human touch that makes stories truly great and that allowing machines to write would be a form of plagiarism. The argument that AI-generated content is not as emotionally engaging as human-written content is not without merit. After all, machines lack the ability to understand human emotions, and storytelling often relies on conveying complex emotional experiences. And even LLMs were trained on existing content, so there will not be any originality. Many scientists believe nothing may truly be original as we all create things out of what we see, feel, hear, and experience. Even if we accept that, LLMs will not have our "diversity of thought", as a Vox piece said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>LLMs, as they stand currently, can generate copious amounts of text in a matter of seconds, which is beyond any human capability, but the words they write lack nuance and flavour. The language LLMs use is rather bland even if given specific instructions to be otherwise. We will end up with billions of words of sanitised, dry, and ultimately useless prose.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So no, AI cannot write the next <em>Succession</em>. I am not convinced AI could write a good reality show.</p>

<h2><strong>What the future holds</strong></h2>

<p>It's unlikely that machines will ever completely replace human writers, as creativity is a complex and nuanced process that involves more than just stringing words together. For writers, the answer may lie in finding a balance between human creativity and AI-generated content. Perhaps machines can be used to generate ideas or help with the writing process while leaving the final product in the hands of human writers.</p>

<p>In the end, the debate over AI and creative writing is not just about the future of Hollywood, but about the role of technology in society as a whole. As machines become more advanced, we will be forced to grapple with difficult questions about ownership, creativity, and what it means to be human. Only time will tell how we answer these questions.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


On April 18, 2018, nearly 98 per cent of members of the WGA, or Writers Guild of America, voted to go on strike if they do not reach an agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), the entity that is representing American film and TV studios (Amazon Studios, Apple Studios, NBCUniversal, Netflix, Paramount Global, Sony Pictures, the Walt Disney Company, and Warner Bros.

On April 18, 2018, nearly 98 per cent of members of the WGA, or Writers Guild of America, voted to go on strike if they do not reach an agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), the entity that is representing American film and TV studios (Amazon Studios, Apple Studios, NBCUniversal, Netflix, Paramount Global, Sony Pictures, the Walt Disney Company, and Warner Bros. Discovery), by May 1. And on the evening of May 2, they made good on their promise by declaring the strike, the first in 15 years. WGA members began picketing the next day. Around 11,500 writers stopped working, making late-night television go dark. The writers have said they want higher minimum pay, more writers per show, and shorter exclusive contracts, among other things. Also on the list of negotiation points are artificial intelligence and large language models like ChatGPT. Though it is quite far down the list, many claim AI may have major ramifications for the future of the industry. AI systems have actually already been a part of Hollywood filmmaking for years. Are tools like ChatGPT different? Hollywood and AI — a love story? AI has been revolutionising the entertainment industry in a variety of ways beyond just creative writing. One of the most notable examples is the use of AI in de-ageing technology. This technology involves using machine learning algorithms to analyse images of an actor at various ages and then applying that data to create a computer-generated model of what the actor would look like at any given age. De-ageing technology has been used in a number of high-profile films, including Martin Scorsese's The Irishman, where it was used to make actors Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci look decades younger (to, uh, mixed results). The technology has also been used in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with Samuel L. Jackson's Nick Fury being de-aged in Captain Marvel and Robert Downey Jr being de-aged in Captain America: Civil War. Another area where AI is already extensively being used in Hollywood is in post-production. For example, AI algorithms can be used to help colour-correct footage or to automatically add special effects. This saves time and money in the editing process and allows filmmakers to create more complex visuals. Large language models or LLMs — the bones of contention WGA has made it clear that they don't want AI to be involved in the creative process. Unlike other AI tools, LLMs are potentially replacing a job (there was no de-ageing job). Screenwriter John August, a member of the WGA negotiating committee, said he and others have two major concerns regarding AI. "We don't want our material feeding them, and we also don't want to be fixing their sloppy first drafts," he said. Here, by "feeding" he refers to training AI systems with existing high-quality scripts. Hypothetically, if an AI system was fed with scripts written by M Night Shyamalan, it could, given time, come up with its own twisty, suspenseful plots. If it were fed with Martin Scorsese's scripts, it could, theoretically, create its own gangster epic. Or one could make it watch thousands of "prestige" shows and maybe it can churn out Succession in space. Or something like that. Can AI write the next Succession, then? Writers argue that AI-generated scripts lack the human touch that makes stories truly great and that allowing machines to write would be a form of plagiarism. The argument that AI-generated content is not as emotionally engaging as human-written content is not without merit. After all, machines lack the ability to understand human emotions, and storytelling often relies on conveying complex emotional experiences. And even LLMs were trained on existing content, so there will not be any originality. Many scientists believe nothing may truly be original as we all create things out of what we see, feel, hear, and experience. Even if we accept that, LLMs will not have our "diversity of thought", as a Vox piece said. LLMs, as they stand currently, can generate copious amounts of text in a matter of seconds, which is beyond any human capability, but the words they write lack nuance and flavour. The language LLMs use is rather bland even if given specific instructions to be otherwise. We will end up with billions of words of sanitised, dry, and ultimately useless prose. So no, AI cannot write the next Succession. I am not convinced AI could write a good reality show. What the future holds It's unlikely that machines will ever completely replace human writers, as creativity is a complex and nuanced process that involves more than just stringing words together. For writers, the answer may lie in finding a balance between human creativity and AI-generated content. Perhaps machines can be used to generate ideas or help with the writing process while leaving the final product in the hands of human writers. In the end, the debate over AI and creative writing is not just about the future of Hollywood, but about the role of technology in society as a whole. As machines become more advanced, we will be forced to grapple with difficult questions about ownership, creativity, and what it means to be human. Only time will tell how we answer these questions. 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 writers vs artificial intelligence: How their strike is also a fight against AI

The Writers Guild of America, the group that represents Hollywood's screenwriters in contract discussions, has declared a strike after this week's talks with major studios failed to result in a favourable agreement. The walkout, the first involving WGA in 15 years, aims to engage businesses in dialogue about a range of problems, including increased wages and better working conditions.

Writers Guild of America strike over pay disputes with streaming giants

Hollywood was on guard for a walkout that may have far-reaching effects in a dispute about fair pay in the streaming era when television and movie writers announced that they will go on strike for the first time in 15 years.

Hollywood writers' strike to trigger TV shutdowns

writers-strike

Writers Strike, News on Writers Strike, stories on Writers Strike, articles on Writers Strike, Writers Strike stories at Wion, Writers Strike news, Writers Strike latest news