Actors and Writers Strike 2023: Key Points and Developments

Background and Causes

Streaming Impact: Streaming has been likened to an invasive species disrupting the entertainment ecosystem, leading to significant industry changes.
Writers and Actors Strike: Due to the impact of streaming, both writers and actors initiated strikes. The Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike ended in September, while the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) strike concluded on November 9.

March 14: WGA released a report highlighting the negative impact of streaming on writers' compensation.
April 3: WGA initiated strike authorization vote, officially announced a strike on April 17.
May 1: Deadline for new WGA contract passed, initiating the writers' strike.
August 1: AMPTP reached out to WGA to restart negotiations.
September 24: WGA reached a tentative agreement with AMPTP.
October 9: WGA members voted to ratify the new contract.
November 8: SAG reached a tentative agreement, officially ending the strike on November 9.

Writers' Concerns:
- Compensation declines due to streaming.
- Increased minimum compensation, residuals, and pension/health plan contributions.
- Stronger professional standards and protections.
Actors' Concerns:
- Increased residuals and minimum compensation.
- Regulations for self-tape auditions.
- AI-related rules and protections.

WGA and AMPTP:
- Initial negotiations began on March 20.
- Tentative agreement reached on September 24.
- WGA contract ratified with 99% approval on October 9.
SAG and AMPTP:
- Talks resumed on October 24.
- Final agreement reached on November 8.

WGA:
- Achieved improved compensation, residuals, and protections in new contract.
SAG:
- Contract valued over $1 billion.
- Increased compensation, AI protections, and streaming participation bonuses.

Production Delays:
- Late-night shows, network TV, and some films were affected by the strikes.
- Streaming services had some buffer due to pre-produced content.
Economic Impact:
- California economy lost approximately $5 billion.
- Influence on red carpet events and promotion cycles.

Celebrity Support:
- High-profile actors and writers voiced support for strike actions.
- Notable figures like Daniel Kwan and Adele Lim publicly backed the unions' demands.

The strikes highlighted critical issues within the entertainment industry, particularly regarding compensation and the impact of streaming. Both the WGA and SAG secured significant gains in their new contracts, marking a notable shift in industry negotiations and labor agreements.