Hollywood is experiencing a historic shutdown as actors and writers are striking for a fairer deal.
This is the first time since 1960 that both actors and writers have picketed film and television production companies.
The Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) announced that 150,000 television and movie actors will begin their strike action. Meanwhile, members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) have been on strike since May.
The main demands of the striking actors and writers are similar. Both unions are trying to ensure fairer pay and better working conditions. Actors are demanding better contract terms and longer hiatuses between seasons. They are also demanding a fair share of the profits from streaming services.
The writers, on the other hand, are demanding higher pay and better working conditions, including better healthcare and pension benefits. Both unions are also demanding better protection against harassment and discrimination.
The strike will reportedly impact more than filming, as stars will no longer be allowed to promote their work through red carpet premieres and other publicity events. For instance, the cast of Christopher Nolan’s new blockbuster, Oppenheimer – including Cillian Murphy – left the film’s London premiere prematurely to “go and write their picket signs” just before the stri6was announced. Late-night talk shows have been off the air since May, and recurring dramas will be replaced by game shows. The strike is expected to delay the Emmys ceremony planned for September. The strike will continue until an agreement with production companies can be reached.
