Hollywood Actors’ Union Ends 118-Day Strike
The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) wrapped up its strike on Nov. 9 after reaching new agreements, including guidelines on artificial intelligence (AI) usage.
They’ve shared a summary and a digital pamphlet outlining the AI regulations included in the deal.
The agreement will take effect 90 days after ratification, defining AI, digital replication of performers, and semi-annual meetings over generative AI use between the union and producers.
A report from Rolling Stone states that the contract was approved by 86% of the board and went to union voters on Nov. 12, with a 21-day voting period.
Details of the Digital Asset Agreement
The deal covers “digital replicas” of performers, categorizing those made independently and those made in employment with studios. It also introduces a definition for “synthetic performers.”
Explicit consent is required for digital alterations to performances, with background actors protected from potential replacement. The agreement specifies that producers must provide a “reasonably specific description” of any alterations they wish to make.
Mixed Reactions from Hollywood
Reactions from industry insiders vary, with some expressing concerns about AI permissions while others defend the agreement’s protections. Justine Bateman disagreed with the decision, calling it “violating,” while Jason Winston George defended it as allowing performers to benefit from AI technology.
Rainn Wilson mocked the deal, questioning what would happen if actors disagreed with it. The end of SAG-AFTRA’s strike comes after the Writer’s Guild of America strike ended on Sept. 24, which also addressed AI usage in writer’s rooms.
Hot Take: Hollywood Actors’ Union Strike Ends After New Agreements
The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) concluded its strike after reaching new agreements that include guidelines on artificial intelligence (AI) usage. Despite mixed reactions from industry insiders, the deal defines and establishes coverage for “digital replicas” of performers while protecting background actors from potential replacement. This comes after the end of the Writer’s Guild of America strike, which also addressed AI usage in writer’s rooms.
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