Fran Drescher Applauds SAG-AFTRA's Groundbreaking Agreement: 'A Contract of Historic Proportions'
Fran Drescher hails SAG-AFTRA's groundbreaking contract after the union's recent tentative deal The actress praises the historic agreement reached on November 8th
SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher expressed her feelings of relief and happiness after the actors' union reached a tentative agreement to bring an end to their four-month strike. Speaking to CNN on November 9, Drescher, 66, emphasized the significance of the historic and influential contract, particularly given the current state of affairs. She expressed gratitude to the union members for their unwavering support and appreciation for the efforts of the negotiating committee and staff, who worked tirelessly to achieve this milestone. Drescher eagerly anticipated the opportunity to celebrate the successful outcome with this new contract.
Drescher stated that she is already considering additions for the union's upcoming contract. She expressed that significant progress has been made, with unprecedented language included in this contract. Drescher highlighted the contract's value of over $1 billion and emphasized that it has been approved unanimously, making it a historic achievement.
Despite the contract still requiring ratification from union members, Drescher remains unconcerned about securing the necessary votes. She expresses confidence in the contract, particularly highlighting the favorable terms offered to the lowest-paid members working in the background. Drescher enthusiastically remarks that an expert from within that community has affirmed unprecedented levels of representation.
Drescher believes that returning actors to work on studio lots will be smooth sailing without any issues. She emphasizes the importance of not taking things personally and highlights that the demands were met.
On November 8th, SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) reached a tentative agreement on a new three-year contract. This groundbreaking agreement includes unprecedented safeguards for actors against the use of artificial intelligence and a significant pay raise.
The guild unanimously approved the agreement, signaling an end to the strike on Thursday, November 9. The new contract will now be submitted to SAG-AFTRA's national board for approval.
In a social media statement on Wednesday, SAG-AFTRA expressed their excitement and pride in announcing that the TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committee has voted unanimously to approve a tentative agreement with the AMPTP. They also confirmed that the strike is officially suspended as of 12:01 a.m. on November 9, and all picket locations will be closed. Further details about celebration gatherings nationwide will be provided in the coming days.
