The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) revealed today that its regional board has endorsed the guild’s latest contract with the major Hollywood studios following 118 days of dedicated sign-hoisting efforts. Despite only 86 percent of the board approving the deal, it is adequate to proceed to the coalition for overall approval, with ratification highly likely.
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The question arises, “What were the outcomes?” What specific terms has the union secured following its arduous negotiations with SAG-AFTRA, characterized by extensive sign-holding and Sharpie usage? Union leader Fran Drescher highlighted some of the triumphs during recent press briefings alongside spokesperson Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, now widely recognized as Hollywood’s leading emcee, joking about leaving her bathroom for multiple Zoom meetings due to the negotiation pressures.
According to Drescher, the new agreement includes a notable 7 percent increase in all SAG-AFTRA fees. Most significantly, it introduces a “streaming residual bonus” expected to total up to $40 million annually, primarily benefiting actors in high-performing streaming productions. However, a portion will also be allocated to performers in less popular streaming content. This framework mirrors a similar deal struck by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) earlier this year, acknowledging the industry shift towards compensating actors directly for their contributions to streaming services.
Additionally, the union now allows productions to create digital likenesses of individuals with their explicit consent, while imposing restrictions on the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Notably, safeguards have been established against “synthetic actors” created by amalgamating scans of numerous individuals. This proactive measure aims to prevent the internet from descending into a perpetual digital dystopia.
Furthermore, during the celebratory moment, Fran Drescher expressed, “We engaged with the media and questioned their motives. We knew it was a significant endeavor. Were they stalling? Did they plan to deceive us? Ultimately, they recognized that Duncan and I represented a new era of leadership.”
