2023 SAG-AFTRA Strike Comes to an End
Actors get a new contract.
Phil Roeder from Des Moines, IA, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
On July 14, actors and writers in Hollywood went on strike due to shrinking salaries and increased concerns about the use of artificial intelligence in film production. On November 10, the Actor’s Union reached a deal with Hollywood that ended the SAG-AFTRA strike. However, this may result in streaming service users paying more for monthly subscriptions.
What was the SAG-AFTRA Strike?
The SAG-AFTRA strike began because of contracts that incorporated the use of artificial intelligence and unfair compensation for the future use of their name, image, and likeness.
"We also think it’s absolutely vital that the deal restore dignity to the casting process by regulating how self-tapes are used,” according to a letter from union members, “especially [in] regards [to] Artificial Intelligence."
How Does this Affect Viewers?
Due to the strike being led by many of Hollywood's members (about 60,000), there was a significant disruption in the entertainment industry.
Popular movies and TV shows were delayed or postponed to the following year. For example, the show “Abbott Elementary” was scheduled for another season in January of this year, but now it has been scheduled to be released next year.
Along with this, major streaming services are expected to increase prices for premium subscriptions.
The new contract concluded by SAG-AFTRA and Hollywood resulted in actors being able to receive 100% of their existing residuals as a bonus if their movie or show is successful, according to The Guardian.
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Eden, Janine and Jim from New York City, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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Alternatives to Watch Shows and Movies
Due to recent price increases by popular services like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu, users may be seeking alternative options.
Popular alternatives include:
Tubi Tv.
Roku Tv.
Xumo.
Another way to avoid these soaring prices can be by looking at package deals or changing the tier you have on the current streaming services you have subscribed to.