After 118 days, the most extended strike by actors in Hollywood’s history has concluded with a new agreement valued at $1 billion, incorporating fresh safeguards against artificial intelligence (AI), as announced by the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), the union representing over 160,000 performers.
SAG-AFTRA disclosed in a statement on its website and social media accounts that its negotiators unanimously agreed to end the strike effective at 12:01 am on November 9. This decision followed the union’s successful negotiation with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, a trade organization representing major Hollywood studios and production companies like Disney, Universal, Warner Bros. Discovery, and others.
The deal includes innovative measures for approval and compensation aimed at safeguarding members from potential AI-related threats.
What sparked concerns about AI?
The utilization of AI and 3D scanning of actors, extensively covered by VentureBeat in a recent investigative report, were significant sticking points during the negotiations.
VentureBeat Report
While 3D scanning of actors for special effects has been in use since the 1980s, its increased accessibility and affordability have raised concerns. Background actors reported being scanned for a single day’s work, with their digital likenesses retained by studios for future use.
The advent of advanced AI technologies, particularly conceptual AI, raised fears among actors that their likenesses could be manipulated by studios beyond their consent, potentially leading to revenue loss.
Numerous software startups have emerged, collaborating with actors, musicians, and performers to create “digital twins.” One such company, Metaphysic based in the UK, not only facilitates the creation of digital twins but also offers a monetization platform for the subjects.
Recent reports from The Hollywood Reporter indicated that AI issues persisted until the final stages of negotiation, with studios pushing for AI scans of Schedule F performers and the right to use scans of deceased actors without estate consent, referred to as a “zombie clause.”
Details of the agreement remain confidential
While specific terms of the deal are yet to be fully disclosed, SAG-AFTRA representatives have made decisions in what they believe to be the best interests of their members. The tentative agreement spans three years, necessitating a revisit to negotiations in the future to address evolving concerns related to AI.
For now, the union continues to evaluate the terms of the agreement, with only limited information available to the public. Members are urged to await further updates on festival events and other pertinent details.
Below is the full statement released by SAG-AFTRA for your reference:
Dear SAG-AFTRA Members,
We are delighted to inform you that your TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committee has unanimously approved a preliminary agreement with the AMPTP today. Our strike has officially ended as of 12:01 a.m. on November 9, and all picket lines have been suspended. Details regarding celebratory events nationwide will be communicated to you in the days ahead.
We have secured an unprecedented deal exceeding $1 billion, encompassing significant increases in minimum compensation, groundbreaking provisions for consent and compensation to shield members from AI-related risks, and the introduction of performance bonuses for the first time. Substantial enhancements have been made to our income and health care plans, providing substantial value to our members. The agreement also features enhancements benefiting various groups, including substantial pay raises for background performers and essential contract clauses protecting diverse communities.
This agreement paves the way for SAG-AFTRA members across all categories to pursue enduring careers, benefiting thousands of performers both now and in the future.
Until the tentative agreement undergoes review by the SAG-AFTRA National Board, comprehensive details will not be publicly disclosed.
We extend our gratitude to our union colleagues and industry partners who have supported our cause alongside the Writers Guild of America. Together, we stand united and remain at your service.
I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to each of you for your unwavering support throughout this ordeal. It is your dedication that has made these advancements possible.
In solidarity and collaboration,
Your TV/TH Negotiating Committee
