On Day 11 of the SAG-AFTRA strike and Day 84 of the WGA strike, actors and writers gathered in front of Paramount and Fox Studios to protest against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers’ new film and TV contracts. Among the demonstrators were a mother and son, Carol and Graham, who decided to join the picket lines instead of taking Paramount’s guided tour. Their story gained attention from WGA organizers as the picketing came to an end. Actor Jack Black was also seen participating in the picket at Paramount, while Clark Gregg, a member of both SAG-AFTRA and the WGA, expressed his support and solidarity with the striking unions at Fox Studios.
Issues Affecting the Industry
Clark Gregg, known for his work in various Marvel projects, highlighted the concerning trend of companies prioritizing “hedge fund institutional shareholders” over their audience. He acknowledged the challenging position that companies find themselves in as they try to navigate their own monetization strategies. He also voiced concerns about the looming threat of AI, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the artist’s autonomy and not being reduced to mere data. Jon Huertas, star of “This Is Us,” drew attention to systemic issues with residuals, particularly the low wages of background performers. He emphasized the crucial role they play in creating a realistic world on screen and the need for economic protections for actors in this category.
Perspectives from Industry Insiders
Showrunner Shawn Ryan, celebrating his FX series “The Shield” and “Timeless” at the picket, discussed the negative impact of so-called “efficiencies” in the writers’ room. He emphasized the importance of maintaining traditional ways of doing business and resisting changes that undermine the creative process. At Netflix, Jennifer Robertson, Patrick Fischler, and Jo Bustamante, known for their work on “Schitt’s Creek” and other productions, joined the strike lines. Bustamante shared her personal struggle, revealing that she sleeps in her car and uses a local gym to shower due to the demanding nature of her job. She expressed concerns about the increasing influence of AI in the industry.
The SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes have brought to light significant issues within the entertainment industry. Demonstrators at Paramount and Fox Studios, including notable actors and writers, have united in their demands for fair contracts and improved working conditions. The concerns raised by industry insiders highlight the need for a balance between corporate interests and the artistic integrity that drives the entertainment world. As the strikes continue, the industry must grapple with these challenges and work towards a resolution that benefits all involved parties.