Summary:
- The Hollywood writers' strike enters its 90th day, prompting the resumption of negotiations between the Writers Guild and studio producers.
- Key issues in the negotiations include minimum staffing, viewership data transparency, better pay for streaming content, and safeguards related to AI use in productions.
- SAG-AFTRA has also joined the picket lines in solidarity with the Writers Guild, increasing the pressure on studios and streaming giants.
- Studios and streamers may be motivated to engage in discussions due to force majeure clauses in contracts, allowing cancellation of agreements after certain periods of strike.
- LA Mayor Karen Bass offers her involvement to help reach a resolution and get Hollywood's entertainment industry back to full operation.
The Writers Guild and studio producers will meet this week to discuss restarting negotiations after a months-long standoff, bringing a glimmer of hope for an end to the Hollywood strike.
Thousands of writers initiated the strike on May 2, demanding a fair share of profits from streaming revenues. The strike has been ongoing for over 90 days, during which both parties have remained far apart on key issues, including minimum staffing, viewership data transparency, better residual pay for streaming content, and safeguards around the use of AI in productions. The Screen Actors Guild, SAG-AFTRA, also joined the picket lines on July 14, showing solidarity with the writers.
Despite the prolonged strike and the financial impact on the industry, there are indications that studios and streaming services are now willing to engage in discussions with the Writers Guild. The strike has led to significant cost savings for companies like Warner Brothers Discovery, but both sides recognize the need to come to the table and find a resolution. LA Mayor Karen Bass has offered her personal engagement to help facilitate a deal and get Hollywood back to work.