Hollywood writers and their supporters from the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) walked the picket line outside Warner Bros Studios in Burbank, California on June 30, 2023. However, the unrest may escalate even further as actors contemplate joining the writers in a “double strike” that would halt nearly all US film and television productions. With the deadline approaching at midnight on Friday, SAG-AFTRA is engaged in last-minute negotiations with major players like Netflix and Disney.
The clock is ticking for actors to make a decision on whether to go on strike, which would significantly impact the entertainment industry. SAG-AFTRA represents 160,000 actors and performers, ranging from A-listers to extras, who have already approved industrial action if an agreement is not reached in time. Despite this, there are speculations about a possible extension of the talks at the eleventh hour.
Jorome Melendez, a 59-year-old actor who joined the picket line in support of the writers, expressed his concern about a potential strike. He emphasized that if a strike were to occur, it would be for valid reasons. Actors, just like the writers, are demanding higher pay to combat inflation and secure their future livelihoods. Residuals, which are payments actors receive whenever their work is aired on network or cable, are vital for them during periods between projects. However, streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+ do not disclose viewing figures and offer a flat rate for all content, regardless of its popularity.
Shon Lange, a 48-year-old actor known for his roles in shows like “NCIS: Los Angeles” and “The Terminal List,” stressed the importance of residuals. He emphasized that residuals help sustain actors when they are not actively working and provide the means to support their families.
If both actors and writers were to strike, it would be the first time since 1960 that all actors and writers in Hollywood walked off the job simultaneously. While the writers’ strike has already impacted the production of movies and shows, an actors’ walkout would have an even more significant effect, bringing almost everything to a standstill. Some reality TV, animation, and talk shows might continue, but even high-profile events like the Emmy Awards would be at risk. The return of popular TV series scheduled for this fall would be delayed, and blockbuster films could also face postponements.
In an open letter signed by numerous high-profile actors, including Meryl Streep and Jennifer Lawrence, the need for a “transformative deal” was emphasized. They see the showbiz industry at a crucial juncture and call for modernization of contracts to accommodate new technologies. One pressing concern is the regulation of the future use of artificial intelligence in the industry. Actors like Kim Donovan, who is worried about studios using an actor’s likeness or voice without proper compensation, believe that A-list actors carry significant influence and play a crucial role in garnering support.
The possibility of a double strike in Hollywood looms, as actors, like most others in the industry, lead a largely uncertain “gig to gig” lifestyle, emphasizing the necessity for reform and improved conditions for all involved.
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