Actors, eagerly anticipating a return to work after a prolonged hiatus due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, have faced another setback in their negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). Despite initial optimism for a deal, the AMPTP suspended talks with SAG-AFTRA, representing over 100,000 actors, citing a lack of productive progress.
Hollywood production has been at a standstill since May, with the conclusion of the writers’ strike, followed by actors going on strike in July. This marks the first time since 1960 that both actors and writers have simultaneously been on strike. While the strikes are unrelated, they share common themes of advocating for better pay, particularly from streaming platforms, and increased regulation over the use of actors’ likenesses in AI.
The actors’ strike prevents them from working, promoting projects, attending red carpet events, auditions, and engaging in social media posts related to their work. The disputes with the AMPTP include issues such as the protection of performers from AI replacement, wage increases to match inflation, and revenue sharing.
The actors accused the companies of using bully tactics and misrepresenting proposals to the press. Despite these challenges, they expressed unwavering resolve, urging fellow actors to join picket lines and solidarity events. The actors concluded with a rallying cry: “One day longer. One day stronger. As long as it takes.”
The suspension of talks is a significant setback for Hollywood, prolonging the industry’s shutdown and leaving actors in limbo until a resolution is reached.
