Diving into the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA Strikes
- Bianca
- Aug 16, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 6
The entertainment world has always had a glamorous front, but behind the scenes is a complicated web of negotiations, disputes, and power struggles. In 2023, the entertainment industry shifted as the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild ‐ American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) went on strike. These labor actions bring to light the longstanding issues affecting the industry and ignite discussions about the rights and working conditions of those responsible for our favorite films and television shows.
What Sparked the Strikes
For years, writers and actors have struggled with issues like fair compensation, residual payments, and the rise of streaming platforms. The arrival of digital media disrupted traditional revenue models, leaving many industry professionals feeling undervalued and underpaid. As studios and networks rake in profits, the creatives who breathe life into their projects often struggle to make ends meet. The pandemic only worsened these concerns, as production schedules were disrupted and health and safety concerns took center stage.
What Are WGA Fighting For
The WGA's strike is fueled by a range of concerns, with fair compensation at the forefront. One of the key demands is increased residual payments for content streamed on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. As streaming became the dominant content consumption mode, writers argued that their contributions generated significant profits for studios, which should be reflected in their paychecks. Additionally, the WGA aims to address issues related to long working hours, lack of job security, and inequities in pay between male and female writers.
What Are SAG-AFTRA Fighting For
SAG-AFTRA's strike mirror many of the WGA's concerns. One of the central demands is the renegotiation of contracts to include higher compensation for streaming content. Actors argue that their performances contribute significantly to a project's success and revenue generation, warranting fair compensation beyond the traditional models. Job security, improved workplace conditions, and better health and retirement benefits are also high on their list of priorities.
Industry Disruption and Public Support
The strikes have a major impact on the entertainment industry. Productions are being put on hold, release schedules are being disrupted, and many studios are forced to reconsider their business models. These disruptions aren't limited to just Hollywood; the effects are rippling through the broader economy, impacting accompanying industries that rely on entertainment for revenue.
Public support is also playing a pivotal role. Social media campaigns, celebrity endorsements, and grassroots movements are bringing attention to the issues at stake and garnering empathy from audiences worldwide. The strikes are going beyond mere labor disputes; they are evolving into conversations about the value of creative work and the need for systemic change in a rapidly evolving industry.
Conclusion
The 2023 strikes by the WGA and SAG-AFTRA serve as a wake-up call for the entertainment industry. These labor actions demonstrate the power of collective action and highlight the essential contributions of writers and actors to the success of films and television shows. As the industry continues to evolve, the legacy of these strikes will undoubtedly play a role in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future for all those involved in bringing our favorite stories to life. If anyone that sees this, is able to donate for the strikers in need, I’ve added the links below. Thank you so much for reading.
RESOURCES TO HELP STRIKERS
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