Summary:
- Writers and producers have come to a promising agreement after a face-to-face meeting, renewing discussions for the first time in over a month.
- Nearly 20,000 writers have been off the job since May, but reports suggest they could be returning to work soon.
- The talks centered around artificial intelligence protections, higher residual pay, and viewership transparency from streaming services.
- The WGA plans to continue picketing until the deal is finalized.
- The months-long strike has impacted the state of California's economy, with an estimated loss of $5 billion between this and the actors' strike.
After more than four and a half months of uncertainty, the Hollywood writer strike may be coming to an end as early as tomorrow.
Hollywood Studios and Writers Near End of Strike
After four and a half months of uncertainty, there appears to be hope that the Hollywood writer strike may finally come to a close. A face-to-face meeting was held today between the writers and producers, sparking talk that the strike could end as early as tomorrow.
Positive Meeting Between Union and Studios
The joint statement sent out by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) revealed that the two groups had met to bargain, and would meet again tomorrow. Insider reports claim that the talks were very encouraging and included a sit-down between the Union, AMPTP, and what Deadline refers to as the "CEO Gang of Four," which includes Netflix, Disney, Warner Brothers Discovery, and Universal.
Writers Hope for Protections and Transparency
The WGA is pushing for greater protections against artificial intelligence, higher residual pay, and more transparency from streaming services such as Netflix. The writers maintain that they will continue to be on the picket lines until a deal is done, fighting not only for themselves but for those who come after them.
Optimism Among Insiders
While there is some healthy skepticism, insiders are optimistic that this round of talks may finally lead to a resolution. Many hope that this will end sooner rather than later, although there is still no concrete timetable for when the strike will come to a close.
Impact of Strike on Industry
The impact of the strike has been felt throughout the industry. According to reports, the state of California has lost as much as $5 billion due to the actors and writers strikes over the last few months. Governor Gavin Newsom has been working behind the scenes to try and get the two parties back to the bargaining table.
Conclusion
After months of being off the job, it appears that Hollywood writers may be heading back to work soon. While there is still some uncertainty, the recent meeting between the Union and studios has left many feeling optimistic. As the two sides continue to negotiate, everyone involved is hopeful that a resolution can be reached sooner rather than later.
In front of Netflix, Samantha Cortese, reporting for KTLA News.