The recent agreement between Hollywood producers and streaming platforms, signaling the end of a traditional 118-day deadlock, has been made public by SAG-AFTRA, the union representing 160,000 performers and media experts.
Released prior to the ratification vote deadline on December 5, the preliminary memorandum of understanding was unveiled by the union. Duncan Crabtree, the national executive chairman and lead negotiator, emphasized in a statement that the proposed television and dramatic agreements include extensive safeguards for artificial intelligence.
Crabtree-Ireland, in a speech, underscored that these accomplishments were only achievable through compromise, collaboration, and persistence throughout the 118-day impasse, urging members to approve the agreement to secure these benefits.
SAG-AFTRA members stood in solidarity with the Writers Guild of America on the picket lines on July 14 during two impactful strikes that affected Hollywood significantly. Following a 148-day strike, the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, representing producers and streaming services, came to terms with the WGA leadership in September.
The deal with SAG-AFTRA covers various aspects such as payment structures, regulations on artificial intelligence, cosmetics, and standards for hair styling.
The freshly negotiated agreements with the AMPTP, effective from November 9, 2023, to June 30, 2026, are detailed in a 128-page document outlining several modifications to the remuneration system for union actors.
The minimum pay scales set in 2020 will witness an initial 7% increase, followed by an additional 4% raise on July 1, 2024, and a further 3.5% hike on July 1, 2025. Additionally, minimum daily rates will start with an 11% increment before escalating by 4% in 2024 and 3.5% in the following year.
A special “success bonus” has been secured for SAG-AFTRA members engaged in high-budget streaming projects.
Moreover, a dedicated section on artificial intelligence has been incorporated, specifying limitations on the use of relational AI, synesthetic performers, and digital replicas of artists. Detailed guidelines on obtaining necessary permissions for utilizing such technologies have been provided.
Furthermore, a new clause concerning hair and makeup requires actors to discuss their beauty and hair preferences before starting a project. It mandates that actors collaborate with professionals who are knowledgeable about their specific skin tones and scalp textures.
Fran Drescher, President of SAG-AFTRA, stressed the importance of AI safety during the negotiations amidst the actor strike.
In terms of transparency in viewership data, streaming services have traditionally been secretive. The proposed agreements stipulate that a select group will have access to viewership statistics from major film companies like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Disney+, Hulu, Max, Netflix, Paramount+, and Peacock.
Services may be required to provide data on the total hours streamed for “high-budget” programs within 90 days after the end of each quarter. This confidential information, limited to six individuals, is crucial for the government’s informed decision-making.
Additionally, a mutually agreed-upon security protocol will govern the access of these individuals to the data.
Looking ahead post-agreement, the focus shifts to the expected resurgence of shows and films in the entertainment industry.
Regarding prevention measures for on-site sexual harassment, education, connection coordinators, and protection methods for performers and crews are addressed in a new section on reducing sexual misconduct.
The report specifies that studios and production companies must make efforts to involve connection coordinators when filming scenes involving nudity or sexual content. They are also required to consider performers’ requests for connection consultants without facing any repercussions.
Within a quarter of the agreements being ratified, studios must submit copies of their anti-harassment and non-discrimination policies. Production sites should have these policies readily accessible along with guidelines for reporting policy violations.
Guidelines for abuse prevention programs recommend integrating best practices for handling nudity or simulated gender-related scenes, including education on managing potentially sensitive situations with care.
As the industry commemorates the resolution of the actor strike, Hollywood is expected to utilize red carpet events and social media to celebrate this significant milestone.
