25 September 2023 , 04:00
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It looks like it will be somewhat business as usual in Hollywood soon, as the writers' strike is set to come to an end. The news that the 146-day strike may finally be coming to an end comes after many long and consecutive days of negotiation.
The Writers Guild of America and the labour group representing studios and streamers are said to have reached a "tentative" deal.
The Writers Guild of America emailed strike captains on Sunday night. Shortly thereafter, its negotiating committee emailed members.
"We have reached a tentative agreement on a new 2023 MBA, which is to say an agreement in principle on all deal points, subject to drafting final contract language," the message read. "We can say, with great pride, that this deal is exceptional – with meaningful gains and protections for writers in every sector of the membership."
The SAG-AFTRA actors' union is still on strike (AFP via Getty Images)The statement added: "To be clear, no one is to return to work until specifically authorised to by the Guild. We are still on strike until then. But we are, as of today, suspending WGA picketing. Instead, if you are able, we encourage you to join the SAG-AFTRA picket lines this week."
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Nearly 11,500 members of the Writers Guild of America walked out on May 2 over issues about pay, the size of writing teams on shows and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) being used in the creation of scripts.
Writer and actress Justine Bateman said of the news: "Being in a union, and going on strike with it, is the type of thing that’s become unfashionable in society. It means you are sacrificing for others; committing to something bigger than yourself; putting in effort because those in the past did it for you, & now it’s your turn. It may be new terms that affect only the newest of the union’s members, or the part-timers, or the elders, and not necessarily you, specifically.
"But that’s not the point. 'You' are not the point. ALL of you are the point. The union, the members as a whole, is the point. Being in a union is one of the most fantastic opportunities in life, to have the chance to stand up for the group, for the strongest and the weakest alike. What a magnificent experience in which to participate."
The agreement comes just five days short of the strike being the longest in history. Despite the writers' strike nearing its end, there is no news yet as to when the SAG-AFTRA strike will be concluding.
The SAG-AFTRA actors' union said in a statement: "SAG-AFTRA congratulates the WGA on reaching a tentative agreement with the AMPTP after 146 days of incredible strength, resiliency and solidarity on the picket lines.
"While we look forward to reviewing the WGA and AMPTP's tentative agreement, we remain committed to achieving the necessary terms for our members.
"We remain on strike in our TV/Theatrical contract and continue to urge the studio and streamer CEOs and the AMPTP to return to the table and make the fair deal that our members deserve and demand."