SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP Meet for Productive Talks as Strike Nears 110 Days
In what seems to be a glimmer of hope, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is set to meet with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) after a day of productive talks on Tuesday. With the strike now on Day 110, both sides cautiously express optimism about resolving the ongoing standoff.
The stakes are high as studios warn that they need a deal this week to salvage the production of partial seasons of scripted network TV series. The strike has already caused significant disruptions in the entertainment industry, with numerous shows on hiatus or facing uncertain futures.
One of the key issues in the negotiation process is the use of artificial intelligence (AI). SAG-AFTRA is not seeking to forbid studios from using AI to create “digital doubles,” but rather wants consent and minimum compensation guarantees. The union also aims to restrict AI training based on past work and seeks to have a veto power over AI uses in productions.
Notably, some studio CEOs were absent from Tuesday’s talks, including David Zaslav, Ted Sarandos, Donna Langley, and Bob Iger. Their participation would have undoubtedly added weight to the discussions but their absence doesn’t deter the spirit of progress shown by both parties.
In a show of unity and determination, SAG-AFTRA is organizing a “unity picket” at Disney headquarters on the 111th day of the strike. Picketing at other Los Angeles locations will be temporarily canceled for the day to focus efforts at this symbolic site.
The union urges its members to continue picketing and utilizing social media to support their cause. Their unified voice is seen as crucial in maintaining pressure and raising awareness about the issues at hand.
As negotiations continue, both SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP hope to find common ground and end the strike that has left a significant impact on the entertainment industry. Though cautious optimism prevails, the next few days are vital in determining the fate of scripted network TV series and the future of AI usage in productions.
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