Title: SAG-AFTRA Delays Bargaining Session as Frustration Mounts in Industry Standoff
SAG-AFTRA, the actors’ union, and the AMPTP (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers) faced a setback in negotiations as the bargaining session was delayed by a day. The union requested extra time to review the latest offer from the CEOs of major entertainment companies, including Disney and Netflix. The meeting, which was originally planned to take place at SAG-AFTRA headquarters in Los Angeles, is now slated for Thursday.
The CEOs presented an improved bonus for streaming shows and proposed higher increases in minimum rates during Tuesday’s session. However, the studios still refuse to offer a cut of the total streaming revenue, which remains a crucial demand of the actors union. With progress sluggish, both sides express frustration.
The negotiations took a tense turn as the CEOs highlighted the economic stakes of the ongoing stalemate, hinting that some TV shows might face cancellation if the strike persists. In response, SAG-AFTRA emphasized the need for a transformation in the compensation structure of actors working in the streaming ecosystem. The union argues that current payment models do not allow actors to earn a sustainable living.
One key contention revolves around the minimum rates for actors. While the union demands an 11% increase, the studios have only offered 5%. Another sticking point is the union’s request for 57 cents per year from every streaming subscription worldwide, a proposal deemed “untenable” by the studios. Instead, the CEOs provided a counteroffer involving a bonus residual for successful shows based on viewership statistics.
The strike has now reached its 104th day, prompting the CEOs to actively participate in the bargaining sessions. The studio executives are acutely aware of the urgency to reach a deal, as further delays could impact upcoming summer blockbusters and potentially jeopardize the 2023-2024 scripted TV season.
The tense standoff between SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP underscores the need for a resolution that addresses the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry. As the bargaining session looms, industry professionals and fans alike eagerly await a breakthrough that will restore harmony and allow for the creation of quality content in the years to come.
