The WGA’s union leaders have approved the strike-ending deal.
On September 26, Tuesday, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) unanimously voted to affirm the deal with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). The 148-day strike which began on May 2, 2023 will end today on September 27.
This was the union’s second longest strike, following a labor action in 1988. Around 11,500 members will now be able to return to work ahead of the ratification vote. The vote will be held from October 2 to 9.
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Terms and conditions
USA Today reported that the new agreement will give writers “increased pay, health and pension contributions with the contract extension as well as new foreign streaming residuals, and viewership-based streaming bonuses.”
There will also be protection from the use of artificial intelligence in the writing process. This has been a point of contention throughout the negotiations. The new three-year contract will be effective until May 1, 2026.
“This deal is exceptional—with meaningful gains and protections for writers in every sector of the membership,” the guild’s Negotiating Committee told members.
“What we have won in this contract is due to the willingness of this membership to exercise its power, to demonstrate its solidarity, to walk side-by-side, to endure the pain and uncertainty that came with the strike.”
Staying strong in solidarity
Meanwhile, the Screen Actors Guild’s strike is still ongoing. There are hopes that this new deal will help them find a resolution with AMPTP as well. SAG-AFTRA has also expanded their walkout to include the video game market, in support of voice actors and other performers.
SAG-AFTRA posted a congratulatory statement on Twitter last Sunday. “We applaud your dedication, diligence and unwavering solidarity over the last five months and are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with you as creative partners in the entertainment industry,” the guild said.
“We look forward to reviewing the terms of the WGA and AMPTP’s tentative agreement. And we remain ready to resume our own negotiations with the AMPTP as soon as they are prepared to engage on our proposals in a meaningful way.”
At this time, there are no confirmed scheduled meetings between SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP yet.
Banner image via Twitter @WGAWest.
