SAG-AFTRA Strike Enters Day 111 as Negotiations Continue
Los Angeles, CA – SAG-AFTRA members and their supporters took to the streets outside Disney Studios on a sunny Tuesday afternoon, marking the 111th day of their strike against Hollywood studios. Negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) are still ongoing, with discussions centering around the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry.
The presence of Hollywood CEOs was notably absent from the negotiations, which were led by AMPTP president Carol Lombardini. Despite their absence, both parties were actively engaged in addressing the issue of AI, which has been a major sticking point in the contract talks.
In a message sent to its members, SAG-AFTRA announced that they were finalizing their response to the AMPTP’s AI counter-proposal. While a resolution on the remaining deal points may still take a few more days, there is a glimmer of hope for a tentative agreement.
To show solidarity and strengthen their negotiation stance, SAG-AFTRA’s negotiating committee, along with president Fran Drescher and national executive director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, organized a “Unity Picket” at Disney Studios. Other entertainment unions, including IATSE and the Teamsters, joined in the demonstration to show their support for SAG-AFTRA.
During the picket, Fran Drescher addressed the media, discussing her negotiating style and responding to reports of her bringing a plush, heart-shaped doll to negotiations. Drescher emphasized her commitment to fighting for fair terms and conditions for SAG-AFTRA members.
Amidst the chants and signs expressing dissatisfaction with the current offer, SAG-AFTRA members and supporters remained resolute in their demand for a fair contract.
Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days as both parties work towards reaching a mutually beneficial agreement. As this strike enters its crucial phase, the future of Hollywood productions hangs in the balance, and industry insiders eagerly await the outcome of these negotiations.
For the latest updates on the SAG-AFTRA strike and other entertainment news, stay tuned to Heartland Magazine.
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