In a significant move, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has unveiled the comprehensive 129-page draft of their memorandum of agreement (MOA) with major studios.
This comes as members engage in a vocal debate on whether to ratify the deal. AI protections have emerged as a focal point in the ongoing discussions.
Traditionally, SAG-AFTRA contract ratification votes rely on detailed summaries, but Chief Negotiator and National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland acknowledged the uniqueness of this historic deal.
“I’m pleased to advise that the draft MOA containing detailed language on all of the changes in the 2023 TV/Theatrical Contracts tentative agreement has now been posted to sagaftra.org/contracts2023. Click here to view it,” Crabtree-Ireland began.
He added, “These contracts achieve more than $1 billion in NEW compensation and benefit plan funding (including an additional $317.2 million to the benefit plans). The contracts establish lengthy and detailed AI guardrails that didn’t exist before and do protect you as we meet the challenge of this new technology, hair and makeup equity, significantly increased background coverage, outsized streaming residuals, a new streaming success fund, and so much more. These gains are only possible because of your sacrifice, solidarity and tenacity over the 118 days of the strike and are assured if you vote to ratify the agreement.”
Crabtree-Ireland wasted no time in highlighting the gains of the contract, pointing out that it secures over $1 billion in new compensation and benefit plan funding, including an additional $317.2 million for the benefit plans. Notably, the agreement delves into the realm of artificial intelligence, establishing detailed guardrails that aim to protect members as the industry grapples with the challenges posed by new technology.
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“The contracts establish lengthy and detailed AI guardrails that didn’t exist before and do protect you as we meet the challenge of this new technology,” Crabtree-Ireland emphasized. The release of the full document is a departure from the norm, reflecting the importance placed on transparency and scrutiny in the decision-making process.
Beyond AI protections, the MOA encompasses various other achievements, including advancements in “hair and makeup equity, significantly increased background coverage, outsized streaming residuals, a new streaming success fund, and so much more,” according to Crabtree-Ireland.
Expressing gratitude to members for their sacrifice, solidarity, and tenacity during the 118 days of the strike that preceded this agreement, Crabtree-Ireland cautioned that the MOA is not considered final until signed by both SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP).
Referencing previous deals in 2014, as well as modifications in 2017 and 2020, Crabtree-Ireland pointed to these as reference points for the current negotiations. The SAG leader also directed members to the SAG contracts site, which provides additional resources, including videos from informational meetings and FAQs, particularly focusing on the implications of AI in the industry.
Matthew Modine to Vote No
The day before the deal’s release, actor Matthew Modine has announced his intention to vote against the ratification.
In a statement, Modine, known for his roles in Full Metal Jacket and Stranger Things, acknowledged the agreement’s “improvements and gains.” However, he expressed a strong stance against a contract that, in his view, compromises the independence and financial futures of performers. Modine had previously voted against approving the contract as a SAG-AFTRA National Board member.
“As a National Board member, it’s morally mandatory to stand beside and provide protection for fellow members. Especially those beginning their careers, those unable to defend themselves, and in this case, their identities, their voices, and their physicality, from being taken away by technology no one fully understands,” Modine asserted, referencing concerns over the agreement’s provisions related to artificial intelligence.
His dissenting voice adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing ratification process, bringing attention to the importance of transparency and informed decision-making within the union.
The member vote on the ratification of the deal is set to run until December 5 at 5 p.m., with members eager to examine the full details of the MOA before making their decision. The release of this extensive document marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue between SAG-AFTRA and major studios, shaping the future landscape of the entertainment industry.
For Reel 360 News’ full strike coverage, click here.
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