The negotiating committee of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) remained on standby yesterday, anticipating a response from the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP).
The union recently disclosed that they had forwarded their latest AI (Artificial Intelligence) proposal to the studio representatives on Wednesday and submitted a “comprehensive” proposal package on the preceding Saturday. As of Thursday evening, the SAG-AFTRA negotiating committee was still anticipating responses from the studios.
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According to a statement by the SAG-AFTRA negotiating committee, “The Negotiating Committee was on standby today awaiting a response from the AMPTP on both the AI counter we presented yesterday, and the comprehensive counterproposal we passed across the table five days ago.” Read the full statement below:
“Dear SAG-AFTRA Members,
The Negotiating Committee was on standby today awaiting a response from the AMPTP on both the AI counter we presented yesterday, and the comprehensive counter proposal we passed across the table five days ago.
Our team looks forward to continuing bargaining with the companies tomorrow.
In solidarity and gratitude,
Your TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committee”
REELated:
Union sources have stated that “the ball is entirely in their court,” referring to the studios’ responsibility to respond. Work is set to resume on the contract negotiations on Friday.
The focus of the recent discussions between the union and the studios has been the regulation of AI within the entertainment industry. Both sides have engaged in detailed discussions regarding AI proposals. The union’s AI proposal, which began as a four-page document in the Interim Agreement, has since evolved substantially.
The union’s negotiating committee has emphasized its commitment to addressing outstanding issues in their comprehensive counterproposal package, which was shared with the studios on Saturday. They have urged their members to continue supporting the union, both by participating in picket lines and by showing solidarity on social media platforms.
The strike, which has lasted for 112 days, continues to have ripple effects throughout the entertainment industry. HBO recently announced delays in the release of several popular shows due to the strike, affecting programming and costs. Similarly, Paramount Global reported substantial “strike-related idle costs” of nearly $60 million during its latest quarter, as they aim to maintain production capabilities during the ongoing strike.
The entertainment industry closely watches the ongoing negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and Hollywood studios. According to an insider with knowledge of the situation, the early November deadline is crucial for salvaging the current production schedule.
Beyond this date, it becomes increasingly unlikely that any new projects will commence, effectively pushing all productions from the fall into the new year. This scenario would significantly reduce the studios’ incentive to reach an agreement.
For Reel 360 News’ full strike coverage, click here.
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