SAG-AFTRA, the union representing actors and other media professionals, has officially ratified a new three-year contract with the studios, marking the end of a significant labor dispute. The ratification vote, which began on November 14, concluded with a strong majority of 78.33% in favor of the tentative agreement reached with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) on November 8.
Key Takeaways:
- SAG-AFTRA members have ratified a new three-year contract with studios.
- 78.33% of ballots were in favor of the agreement.
- The ratification vote indicates a higher approval than expected, given the social media discussions, particularly around AI.
- The strike, which lasted 118 days, officially ends with this ratification.
- The agreement expires on June 30, 2026.
A Resolution to the Strike
The ratification effectively concludes the labor action that saw SAG-AFTRA on strike for 118 days. The strike had a significant impact on the industry, with many productions halting or adjusting schedules. The new contract’s approval required a simple majority of 50% + 1 of the ballots cast. In comparison, the last contract in 2020 was approved by 74% of voting members, and in 2017, 76% voted in favor of a new three-year contract.
Member Participation and Voting
This year’s ratification saw a higher member participation rate, with 38.15% of members casting their votes. This is a notable increase from the 27.2% participation in 2020 and 15.3% in 2017. The increased turnout reflects the heightened interest and engagement of SAG-AFTRA members in the issues at stake, particularly around the use of AI and streaming success bonuses.
Leadership’s Response
SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher expressed pride in the union’s membership for their resilience during the strike and their engagement throughout the negotiation process. National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland also highlighted the members’ demands for fair compensation, protection from AI technology misuse, and equitable treatment.
The Road to Agreement
The journey to this agreement was not without its challenges. The stalemate between AMPTP and the guilds carried through much of the summer, with the writers’ guild striking a deal in late September. The actors’ guild and the studios resumed talks after a prolonged hiatus, with AI emerging as a final sticking point in the negotiations.
With the new contract ratified, SAG-AFTRA members have set a precedent for future negotiations, particularly in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and digital media. The contract’s provisions and the robust member participation signal a strong union presence and a commitment to addressing the challenges of modern media production.
Studios Applaud SAG-AFTRA for Ratifying New Contract
The entertainment industry has reached a significant milestone with the ratification of a new contract between SAG-AFTRA and the studios. This development comes after more than 100 days of intense negotiations, marking a pivotal moment in the relationship between actors and production companies.
Key Takeaways:
- SAG-AFTRA has ratified a new three-year contract with studios.
- The contract was passed with 78.33% of the ballots voting in favor.
- The AMPTP (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers) congratulated SAG-AFTRA on the ratification.
- The new contract represents historic gains and protections for performers.
- The ratification ensures the industry and its supported jobs can return in full force.
A Historic Agreement
After prolonged negotiations, the studios have extended their congratulations to SAG-AFTRA for ratifying its new contract. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) issued a statement following the affirmative vote, which saw 78.33% of the ballots in favor of the new contract. This agreement is seen as a significant achievement, offering historic gains and protections for performers in the industry.
Echoing Past Successes
The AMPTP’s response to the ratification mirrors a similar statement made after the Writers Guild of America (WGA) membership ratified their deal. In both instances, the AMPTP acknowledged the meaningful gains and protections for the respective guild members. These agreements are viewed as crucial steps forward for the industry, ensuring that creative professionals are back to work with improved terms.
The Road to Ratification
The journey to this ratification was marked by intense discussions and negotiations, reflecting the complexities and evolving needs of the entertainment industry. The agreement signifies not only a triumph for SAG-AFTRA members but also a collaborative effort between the guild and the studios to address and resolve key issues.
Implications for the Industry
The ratification of this contract is expected to have a positive impact on the entertainment industry. It ensures that the jobs it supports can return to full force, fostering a more stable and secure environment for performers and production companies alike. This agreement is a testament to the industry’s ability to adapt and evolve, even in the face of challenging negotiations.
Looking Ahead
As the entertainment industry continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of media production, agreements like this play a crucial role in shaping its future. The ratification of the new contract between SAG-AFTRA and the studios marks a significant step in ensuring fair and progressive working conditions for performers, setting a positive precedent for future negotiations in the industry.
