The Concerns of SAG-AFTRA Members in the Wake of the WGA Deal
Following the end of the 146-day strike by the Writers Guild of America (WGA), members of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) continue to strike as they prepare for their own negotiations. While there are various issues being discussed, one central concern for the striking actors is artificial intelligence (AI).
In July, negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and studios broke down due to disagreements over protecting background actors and securing residual pay from streaming platforms. Despite the WGA strike coming to an end, individual writers have continued to support SAG-AFTRA by joining them on the picket lines.
SAG-AFTRA member Page Kennedy expressed his appreciation for the solidarity shown by the WGA members. He believes that their deal with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) is a positive sign that SAG-AFTRA will also reach an agreement soon.
Apprehension Towards Artificial Intelligence
Page Kennedy and other SAG-AFTRA members remain concerned about the use of AI in film and television. They fear that AI is being used to replace human actors and diminish their value. Kennedy argues that AI lacks the emotional depth and adaptability that humans possess.
In the tentative agreement between the WGA and AMPTP, it is stipulated that AI-generated material cannot be considered literary or source material. Writers have the choice to use AI with consent from the company but cannot be forced to do so. Additionally, studios must disclose if any material given to writers has been generated by AI.
Formation of The Streaming Innovation Alliance
While members of the WGA celebrated their deal, major studios including Netflix, Max, Paramount+, Disney, and Peacock have joined forces to create The Streaming Innovation Alliance. This new trade group aims to advocate for policies that impact their streaming services at both federal and state levels.
Kimberly Strauss, a talent manager and partner at Next Level Entertainment, expressed concerns that the announcement of this alliance was overshadowed by the WGA agreement. She believes that WGA members should be aware of this development before they cast their votes.
Struggles Faced by SAG-AFTRA Members
SAG-AFTRA members have had to find alternative means of support during the ongoing strike. Mitch Ward, a member of SAG-AFTRA, relied on his background in information technology (IT) to sustain himself. He hopes that a solid contract will be reached to protect actors in the long term.
The issue of residuals for streaming movies and TV shows is another point of contention between SAG-AFTRA and the studios. Currently, actors receive significantly lower payments for streaming residuals compared to broadcast shows. This discrepancy is a cause for concern among members like Kate Comer who feel they are not being adequately compensated for their work.
Hot Take: Ensuring Fair Treatment and Compensation
The concerns raised by SAG-AFTRA members regarding artificial intelligence and streaming residuals highlight the ongoing struggle for fair treatment and compensation in the entertainment industry. As negotiations continue, it is crucial for actors to have a say in how AI is used and to receive proper payment for their work in the rapidly evolving landscape of streaming platforms. By standing together and demanding these rights, actors can ensure their value is recognized and protected.
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