SAG-AFTRA Negotiations: Duncan Crabtree-Ireland Addresses Talks Breakdown.
Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the National Executive Director and lead negotiator for SAG-AFTRA, expressed bewilderment at the sudden suspension of talks with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). The decision the studios made caught him off guard, given the otherwise constructive atmosphere during negotiations.
Following the announcement of an indefinite pause in discussions between Hollywood’s significant companies and SAG-AFTRA, Crabtree-Ireland returned to the Netflix picket lines, rallying members with the motto, “One day longer, one day stronger.” In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, he shed light on the breakdown of talks, emphasizing the necessity of continued dialogue.
Crabtree-Ireland revealed that the decision to suspend negotiations came after a typical day of talks, leaving him puzzled by the abrupt halt. He highlighted the importance of open communication, expressing disappointment that the studios chose to step away from the table after a prolonged hiatus from negotiations.
Regarding the recent proposals, Crabtree-Ireland clarified that substantial concessions were made, particularly in streaming revenue. Despite these efforts, he was surprised by the studios’ reluctance to engage positively. SAG-AFTRA asserted that the latest offer from the studios was less favorable than the previous one, a claim supported by their attempt to delay contractual improvements due to the strike’s duration.
Crabtree-Ireland outlined the outstanding issues, emphasizing the need for progress on minimums and addressing inflation for lower-earning members. He also pointed to unresolved matters concerning artificial intelligence and consent protocols for franchise projects, underlining the importance of multiple points of consent.
When asked about the AMPTP’s offer similar to the Writers Guild of America’s bonus structure for successful streaming programs, Crabtree-Ireland explained that this approach needs to be revised to compensate a broader range of performers within SAG-AFTRA adequately. The proposed bonus structure is better suited to the distinct economic landscape of writers.
Crabtree-Ireland acknowledged that having CEOs in negotiations facilitated direct discussions on critical topics. However, more than their presence is needed, active engagement is essential for progress.
In light of the 91-day strike, Crabtree-Ireland’s message to the industry is clear: companies must return to the negotiation table. He assured industry workers, including SAG-AFTRA members and others affected by the shutdown, that every effort is being made to secure a fair deal. The interruption in negotiations is hoped to be brief, with a call for all industry stakeholders to urge the studios and CEOs to resume negotiations promptly.
