Overview of the Actors' Strike Settlement

The 118-day actors' strike, which ended on November 9th, resulted in a tentative deal between the actors' union (SAG-AFTRA) and the Studio and Streamer Coalition. While the full details of the deal are yet to be revealed, the union has called it a $1 billion deal with significant gains in wages, streaming, and most importantly, AI. The negotiations were tough, with the major sticking point being the use of generative AI to create synthetic performers. SAG-AFTRA wanted rights of consent, notification, and compensation for its members in such cases. The union secured provisions in these areas, although not exactly as originally drafted. Additionally, the deal includes a new streaming participation structure that involves both a formula-based payment and a jointly trusted fund for the distribution of funds. The minimum wage increases for actors also exceeded the so-called pattern of compensation increases. SAG-AFTRA believes that this contract sets an example for the industry in protecting its members' interests, especially regarding emerging technologies like AI.