The SAG-AFTRA actor strike for 2023 has begun. For those wondering who is striking, why they are doing so, and how long the strikes could last, here’s the latest need-to-know information.
Why are actors striking in 2023?
Actors are striking in 2023 because they want a better deal from major studios and streaming services.
SAG-AFTRA, which represents over 160,000 actors and broadcasters, states that its members “need a modern contract that addresses modern issues.”
Specifically, SAG-AFTRA is on strike due to major companies “[refusing] to offer a fair agreement that addresses these existential threats.”
The industry has been transformed by the shift to streaming and compensation has been undermined by inflation. The Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers (AMPTP), which represents the major studios and streamers, including Amazon/MGM, Apple, NBCUniversal, Disney/ABC/Fox, Netflix, Paramount/CBS, Sony and Warner Brothers, refused to offer a fair agreement that addresses these existential threats.
SAG-AFTRA Official F.A.Q.
Which actors are striking?
There are over 160,000 people taking part in the strike. Striking actors include Robert Downey Jr., Matt Damon, Florence Pugh, Emily Blunt, Rami Malek, and Kenneth Branagh, all of whom were attending the Oppenheimer premiere when the strike began. They promptly walked out when the strike started.
How long will the actor strike in 2023 last?
President of SAG-AFTRA Fran Drescher states that the actor strike could last at least six months.
As reported by the Independent, Drescher said that SAG-AFTRA is “looking for the long haul.” She went on to say: “The gravity of a commitment like this is not lost on any of us. It’s major. But we also see that we have no future and no livelihood unless we take this action, unfortunately.”
While talks between the groups have seemingly been productive, they aren’t close to reaching a deal at this time. This is despite an extension being given before strike action would be taken. Now actors are on strike and the production of many movies and TV shows will be put in jeopardy.
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